Explore the Emerald Isle's beauty and historic villages by bicycle on this 8-day trip. Mórchuaird Chiarraí (Ring of Kerry) is a 111-mile circular route on Ireland's southwestern coast, encompassing Muckross, Killarney National Park, and picturesque Kenmare. Discover local treasures as you cycle in and around the eastern part of the Iveragh Peninsula.

Highlights

  • Bike through Killarney National Park taking in the lush greenery
  • End a day's hike with the refreshing sight and sounds of Torc Waterfall
  • Discover the fascinating history of Ross Castle
  • Fall in love with the winding roads as you pass through Ballaghbeama Gap

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Killarney Killarney
Day 2 Galway's Bridge to Killarney hike; ghost tour Killarney
Day 3 Bike the Gap of Dunloe Killarney
Day 4 Off-road guided bike tour Killarney
Day 5 Kayaking; brewery tour Killarney
Day 6 Cycle from Blackstones Bridge to Kenmare Kenmare
Day 7 Bike from Kenmare to Killarney Killarney
Day 8 Departure  

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Killarney

Muckross
The elegant Muckross House

Arrive in Killarney and check into your accommodation. Collect your bicycle and information pack with route descriptions and maps.
If you have time, bike the short circular route to Killarney National Park to see both the 15th-century Muckross Abbey and the 19th-century Muckross House. Take time to enjoy this iconic landscape as you cycle around Muckross Lake. Return to Killarney and enjoy the vibrant town for your first overnight stop.

Cycling distance: 13 miles

Day 2: Galway's Bridge to Killarney Hike & Ghost Tour

Torc Waterfall, Killarney National Park, Ireland
Torc Waterfall, Killarney National Park

Transfer to Galway’s Bridge just outside Killarney to begin this stunning hike along the Old Kenmare Road.  Trek through the Esknamucky Glen and enjoy the views of Killarney's lakes and mountains. Towards the end of your hike, visit the famous Torc Waterfall and continue on to Killarney for your overnight. Later on, meet your ghost tour guide and explore local historical sites. You'll learn about the rich myth and legend of these sites, including Dracula’s association with Killarney, fairies, and other folklore.

Hiking distance: 6 miles
Hiking duration: 4 hours 

Day 3: Bike the Gap of Dunloe 

Gap of Dunloe, Co. Kerry, Ireland
Gap of Dunloe

Begin the day with a short bike ride to the 15th-century Ross Castle before taking to the water. Relax while your captain takes you on a serene boat journey through the three Lakes of Killarney. Finishing at Lord Brandon’s Cottage, enjoy this tranquil spot with a coffee or small lunch before tackling the Gap of Dunloe. Some effort required here, so climb your way up and weave through this jagged landscape of vertical glaciated valleys and glistening mountain lakes. End the day’s adventure with a gentle cycle through Killarney National Park and back to your accommodation in Killarney.

Cycling distance: 15 miles

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

Day 4: Off-road Guided Bike Tour

Follow your guide
Follow your guide

Today you will be taken on a guided off-road bike tour. Cycle off the beaten path and experience even more of Ireland's exquisite beauty.

Day 5: Kayaking & Brewery Tour

Ross Castle, Lough Leane, Killarney, Ireland
Ross Castle on the edge of Lough Leane

Discover the hidden beauty of the Lakes of Killarney (Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and Upper Lake) as you gently kayak the waters and delve into the fascinating history of Ross Castle. Afterward, take a tour of the Killarney Brewing Company. Sample local beers and enjoy the informative and fun tour.

Day 6: Bike Blackstones Bridge to Kenmare

Blackstones Bridge, Upper Caragh River, Co. Kerry, Ireland
Blackstones Bridge and the Upper Caragh River

As you cycle through County Kerry's heartland, enjoy the views of the Bridia Valley. Zig and zag along the quiet country roads towards the incredible Ballaghbeama Gap. Bike through Irish peatland as you follow Blackwater River and enjoy the vista surrounding Kenmare Bay. Stay the night in idyllic Kenmare.

Cycling distance: 32 miles

Day 7: Bike from Kenmare to Killarney

Molls Gap, Co. Kerry, Ireland
Moll's Gap

Bike along backroads to the famous Moll's Gap. Marvel at the wonderful views over the Lakes of Killarney from a different vantage point. Continue cycling to the Black Valley and back through the Gap of Dunloe before returning to Killarney for your final night.

Cycling distance: 26 miles

Day 8: Departure

Leave your bike behind and say goodbye to Ireland
Leave your bike behind and say goodbye to Ireland

After a final breakfast and farewell, leave your bike behind and follow your own arrangements for your onward journey.

Map

Map of Ring of Kerry Self-Guided Cycling Tour - 8 Days
Map of Ring of Kerry Self-Guided Cycling Tour - 8 Days