Ring of Kerry Cycling Tour

Ring of Kerry Cycling Tour Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Tralee

Upon arriving in Tralee, check in at your B&B. If time permits, take a scenic ride along the Tralee to Fenit Greenway—a perfect chance to get comfortable with your rental bike off public roads. The Greenway leads to the charming fishing village of Fenit, where you can unwind on its blue-flag beach or climb to the statue of St. Brendan the Navigator for panoramic views of the northern Dingle Peninsula.

Back in Tralee, enjoy a relaxed evening in anticipation of your cycling journey ahead. Relish a meal at one of Tralee's many restaurants or dive into local culture with a show or exhibit at Siamsa Tíre, Ireland's National Folk Centre.
Overnight Location: BnB in Tralee
Distance: 1-2 hours, 28.5km, 200m of ascent, 271m of descent
Meals: None

Day 2 Lakes & Mountain Shadows

Starting from Tralee, your cycling journey heads southwest beneath the foothills of Ireland’s tallest peak, Carrantuohill. Along the way, soak in the breathtaking scenery around the stunning Caragh Lake. Following peaceful backroads away from the main Ring of Kerry, you'll arrive at the charming coastal village of Glenbeigh, where you'll spend the night. This part of your journey offers captivating landscapes and an immersive experience in Ireland's scenic countryside. With traditional Irish pubs, tranquil beaches, and close access to the scenic Rossbeigh Strand, Glenbeigh is an ideal spot for a relaxing seaside retreat.
Overnight Location: B&B in Glenbeigh
Distance: 3-4 hours, 49.2km, 530m of ascent, 479m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 Cycling Out to Sea

Continue westward along the Ring, the North Atlantic Ocean never far away. Pass through the lovely shores of Kells Bay, offering an excellent beach with great vistas of the Dingle Peninsula across the water.

The day ends in Caherciveen, where you’ll spend the next two nights. Enjoy the views over nearby Valentia Island, chock-full of intriguing history to discover.
Overnight Location: B&B in Caherciveen
Distance: 2-3 hours, 37.5km, 474m of ascent, 466m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 Free Day on the Coast

Today is a free day to explore this stunning coastal region to your heart’s content! Top of the list is Valentia Island – a ferry from Reenard Point will get you there in mere minutes. Bring your bike as there’s plenty to discover.

Historical intrigue abounds on this island. Dive into tales of the Knights of Kerry, who’ve called the island home since the turn of the 19th century. This pales in comparison to the “Tetrapod Tracks” on Valentia’s north coast. These footprints were left by a creature leaving the ocean for life on land some 360 million years ago!

Loop back onto the mainland via the road bridge on the island’s south shore, where the village of Portmagee makes for a lovely lunch stop. Don’t miss a visit to the Kerry Cliffs towering a thousand feet above the wild Atlantic. On a clear day, you can spot the faraway Skellig Islands, where memorable scenes from the new Star Wars films were captured.
Overnight Location: B&B in Caherciveen
Distance: 3 hours, 39km, 562m of ascent, 562m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 Into the Inny Valley

A stunning day unfolds as you turn back to the east and work inland through the Inny Valley. This is a lush landscape full of forested hills and winding rivers. Conquer the Ballaghisheen Pass, magnificent views stretching in all directions.

Your day concludes in Sneem. Leave your bikes at the B&B and stroll around this serene landscape, checking out the old stone bridge built over the water. A relaxing evening of hearty Irish cuisine and the sounds of nature provide the perfect end to the day’s adventure.
Overnight Location: B&B near Sneem
Distance: 3 hours, 37.5km, 597m of ascent, 610m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 Heartland of Kerry

Head south through the Bridia Valley, where rural Ireland shines in all its glory. Ride through the Ballaghbeama Gap, a narrow track cut through the mountains providing the rush of true exploration! Follow the Blackwater River across Irish peatland until you reach the shores of tranquil Kenmare Bay.

The town of Kenmare at the bay’s head is your destination for the night. With its strategic position near two of Ireland’s most popular loops, it boasts some exceptional restaurants and pubs to enjoy.
Overnight Location: B&B in Kenmare
Distance: 3 hours, 39km, 592m of ascent, 602m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 North to Killarney

It’s your final day on the Ring! The trip back to Killarney is full of outstanding sights and scenery. Cycle through the mountain pass of Moll’s Gap, where breathtaking views of Killarney’s Three Lakes greet you.

Continue through the Black Valley and tackle your final challenge, the Gap of Dunloe, formed thousands of years ago by a glacial breach. Then, you’ll coast down into Killarney. Take plenty of stops to soak it all in!
Overnight Location: B&B in Killarney
Distance: 3-4 hours, 51.2km, 679m of ascent, 659m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 Departure Day

Time to depart from County Kerry. Check out of your accommodations, leave your bicycles behind (if renting), and embark on your next adventure.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast