Ring of Kerry Tour - A Walking Tour in Ireland

Remote Ring of Kerry is a dream of emerald hills, deep-blue lakes and idyllic seascapes. We sample Killarney National Park as we meander through woodlands, ferns, and rhododendrons, visit a waterfall that inspired the poet Tennyson, and inhale fresh air with the scents of damp woods and heather moors. Our walk leads to ancient Celtic churches, Iron-age forts, and the curious Ogham Stones. Walking coastward, we look for dolphins frolicking offshore and seabirds nesting atop the dramatic bluffs. Most memorable are the innately friendly Irish people, who share their legends, lore, and boundless hospitality

Day 1 Killarney
Rendezvous in Killarney. (You may wish to leave yourself time to enjoy a horse-drawn jaunting cart-ride in the lively Kerry atmosphere). Meet in Killarney for a welcome dinner and introductory talk.
Climate in Ireland

Day 2 Kenmare
We walk forest and lakeside trails leading to the ruins of a Franciscan Abbey scene of secret midnight weddings in Elizabethan times followed by lunch in the grounds of Muckross House and Park. After lunch, we follow the 16th century Kenmare Track through the lovely Windy Gap and on to the lively little town of Kenmare, our overnight destination.

Day 3 Kenmare
We follow the little-known 'Beara Way' for views of the Kenmare Estuary and the peaks of McGillycuddy's Reeks. A country land passes a Druids' stone circle leading to a lakeside inn where we enjoy a traditional Irish lunch. We continue along country lanes savouring idyllic sea views over Kenmare Bay and through sub-tropical gardens of Dereen House on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Return to Kenmare.

Day 4 Waterville
We begin at the 2000 year old Staigue Fort where we learn about Celtic folklore and follow the 'Kerry Way' to enjoy Atlantic Ocean vistas. After a traditional pub lunch, we continue across pastures and lanes, pausing to examine the ancient Celtic writings on an Ogham Stone, then crossing the white sands of Derrynane Bay to visit the home of 'The Liberator', Irish patriot Daniel O'Connell. After a cream tea we conclude our day's walk in Waterville.

Day 5 Caragh Lake
We follow an old track beside a stream to Dingle Bay with sweeping sea views to the distant Mount Eagle. After a pub lunch, we rejoin the Kerry Way to Caragh Lake which, if the tide allows, we cross by fishing boat to land at the magnificent lakeside gardens of our hotel.

Day 6 Caragh Lake
We walk the gorse and heather covered hills above Caragh Lake over to Blackstone Bridge where salmon fishermen gather. After a picnic lunch we meet a local farmer to discover how he cuts the turf for winter fuel and see his faithful sheepdog at work. We return to Caragh Lake for our farewell dinner.

Day 7
We see you safely on your way to the train station in Killarney. For the weekend consider travelling to Dublin (map) the Irish Capital, where visitors can walk to castles, cathedrals and colleges and enjoy the lively nightlife in the many pubs.

Countries: Ireland

Ring of Kerry (walking tour in Ireland)