KillarneyStory N° 144
Ring of Kerry Open-Road Drive
Chase the freedom of the open road around the legendary Ring of Kerry, Ireland's most spectacular coastal loop.
The itinerary.
4 days · 8 stops
Friday
Day One
Arrive in Killarney and pick up the keys to the open road.
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Killarney National Park
Ireland's first national park, with native oak woods, lakes and the elegant Muckross House at its heart.
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Ross Castle
A 15th-century lakeside tower house on the shore of Lough Leane, reachable by a short woodland walk.
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Hotel
The Killarney Park Hotel booking.com
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Getting around
- Arriving via Kerry Airport, then rental car pickup in Killarney
Saturday
Day Two
Drive the wild western arc of the Ring through Killorglin and Cahersiveen.
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Kerry Cliffs
The most dramatic cliffs on the Ring, soaring 300 metres with views to the Skellig Islands.
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Valentia Island
Cross the bridge to this rugged island of slate cliffs, lighthouses and ancient tetrapod footprints.
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Hotel
QC's Townhouse Cahersiveen booking.com
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Getting around
- Self-drive the N70 coastal road
Sunday
Day Three
Sweep over the high passes and finish in colourful Kenmare.
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Ladies View
A celebrated panorama over the Lakes of Killarney, named for Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting.
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Moll's Gap
A high mountain pass with sweeping views of the MacGillycuddy's Reeks, Ireland's highest range.
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Kenmare town
A heritage town of brightly painted shopfronts, artisan food and a lively stone-circle heritage.
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Hotel
Sheen Falls Lodge Kenmare booking.com
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Getting around
- Self-drive over Moll's Gap
Monday
Day Four
A final lakeside morning before returning the car.
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Gap of Dunloe
A narrow glacial mountain pass best explored by jaunting car or on foot between towering cliffs.
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Hotel
Sheen Falls Lodge Kenmare booking.com
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Getting around
- Drive back to Kerry Airport for departure
Location.
Frequently asked
How many days do you need for Ring of Kerry Open-Road Drive?
4 days. The itinerary runs from Friday to Monday and covers 8 curated stops across 4 days.
How much does Ring of Kerry Open-Road Drive cost?
Premium — €300–600 per day per person, premium lodging included.
Where do you stay during Ring of Kerry Open-Road Drive?
The Killarney Park Hotel is the recommended base for the trip; the full hotel list per day is in the itinerary section.
What's included in the Ring of Kerry Open-Road Drive itinerary?
Day-by-day stops at 8 restaurants, museums, viewpoints and landmarks; transportation hints between each leg; and a hotel base in Killarney.
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