Explore the glorious southwest of Ireland, a region shaped by ancient glaciers and the pounding waves of the Atlantic Ocean. On this guided tour of the green hills, valleys, and pastures of Kerry, you'll enjoy plenty of fresh air and panoramic views, and you'll have frequent opportunities to meet local people and get a glimpse of daily life in their culture.

Highlights

  • Walk along the Skellig Coast with views of Dingle Bay
  • Boat through the beautiful Three Lakes of Killarney 
  • Sample locally made chocolate after a day of hiking
  • Visit Ross Castle, dating back to the 15th century 
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch on the hiking trail

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Killarney Killarney National Park
Day 2 Lakes of Killarney Killarney National Park
Day 3 Derrynane Bay Hike Waterville
Day 4 Skellig Coastal Hike Waterville
Day 5 Depart  

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Killarney

The Domain
A traditional bed & breakfast in Kerry

Arrive in Killarney for the start of your holiday. With one of the country’s finest national parks as its backyard, this is a great place to start your travels in Kerry. Once you have settled into your bed & breakfast, your guide will meet you for an overview of the trip followed by dinner in a nearby pub.  

Day 2: Lakes of Killarney

Lough Leane
Lough Leane in Kerry

Today is a glorious opportunity to see Killarney at its best. Start with a short hike from Ross Castle, the 15th-century seat of the O’Donoghue Clan. Then enjoy a spectacular boat ride through the Three Lakes of Killarney and the Meeting of the Waters to reach Lord Brandon’s Cottage. From there, a hiking trail takes you several miles along the shores of the Upper Lake to Galways’ Bridge. Follow Old Kenmare Road under Torc Mountain, then return to Killarney for your overnight.

Plan your trip to Ireland
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.

Day 3: Derrynane Bay Hike

Views along the Ring
Views along the Ring of Kerry

Pick up a picnic lunch and enjoy the scenic drive to the beautiful Derrynane House. Your three-mile hike today takes you around the coast toward Abbey Island. Along the way, you will hear stories about Ireland’s renowned liberator, Daniel O’Connell. Then you'll continue inland to hike over the foothills of this western tip of the Ring of Kerry, taking in glorious views across the Atlantic Ocean and the two peninsulas north and south. Return to Derrynane House and enjoy some light refreshments before traveling to your accommodations in Waterville for an evening meal and overnight.

Day 4: Skellig Coastal Hike

Sweeping views of Kerry's coastline

Today, your guide will take you on a magnificent hike overlooking the Wild Atlantic Way and Dingle Bay. Depending on your interests (and the weather), the hike can last anywhere between two and five miles. At the end of the journey, you'll have a refreshing drink and taste locally made chocolate. Then return to Waterville for a free evening at your leisure.

Day 5: Depart

Bid the Emerald Isle farewell.
Hiking on the Emerald Isle

After your final Irish breakfast, you will be taken by minivan to reach the bus & train station in Killarney. From there, you can take a train or a bus to your next destination. Happy travels! 

Map

Map of Guided Kerry Walk - 5 Days
Map of Guided Kerry Walk - 5 Days