Ireland by bike: Loop around the Ring of Kerry
South-west Ireland by bike around the Iveragh Peninsula
© Failte Ireland
© Tourism Ireland
© Tourism Ireland
© Trustees of Muckross House
@ Marine - Laown Hotel & Resorts
@ Brian Morrison
© Fáilte Ireland - Tourism Ireland
© Fáilte Ireland - Tourism Ireland
© Fáilte Ireland - Tourism Ireland
© Failte Ireland
Highlights
The Ring of Kerry
Killarney and the National Park
Muckross House and its gardens
Glenbeigh and its spectacular coastline
Valentia Island
Tasting local specialities
Cycling the Ring of Kerry, an Irish ride
Get on your bike for a 290km cycling trip to discover the secrets of southwest Ireland. Set off on an epic 8-day cycling adventure through Ireland's enchanting landscapes, on the legendary "Ring of Kerry". This picturesque tour takes you through iconic towns such as Killarney, Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, Sneem, Kenmare, for a memorable getaway.
Fáilte go hÉireann! Welcome to Ireland, nicknamed the Emerald Isle for its lush green meadows in every season. You’re about to embark on an immersive cycling adventure in the wild Kerry region that forms the south-western part of Ireland.
This journey along the roads and paths of the Ring of Kerry guarantees travelers a real connection with Irish nature and the discovery of breathtaking landscapes. While the scenery is magnificent, the terrain is steep. We recommend the electric bike option if you haven’t been able to keep active in recent weeks, as the route has a sporty profile with several small passes to climb.
Your stay in Ireland begins in the colorful town of Killarney. Surrounded by lakes, peat bogs and rounded mountains, Killarney is the capital of the Kerry region and sets the tone for the adventure. The inaugural loop through Killarney National Park takes in the wilderness of inland Kerry, with its mysterious lakes, dark forests and barren moors. Along the way, don’t miss Muckross House and its fabulous gardens.
On winding, scenic roads, you’ll discover Kerry’s rugged coastline: towering cliffs, sheep grazing on green hillsides. The whole Kerry coast is magnificent, and every bend reveals breathtaking scenery and changing light. Close to the village of Glenbeigh, Rossbeigh Mountain offers a unique view of the entire north coast of the Ring of Kerry. After Watterville, the ascent to the Coomakista pass offers breathtaking views of the crenellated coastline. Sheep on the roadsides are your faithful supporters, making the effort all the more enjoyable.
Kerry’s coastline is also dotted with islands. On a beautiful loop, you’ll discover the wild island of Valentia, inhabited by just 650 people year-round. A natural setting swept by gusts of Atlantic wind. A guaranteed iodine cure.
Cycling in Kerry also means discovering the atmosphere of its pubs. In Ireland, the pub is an institution, and almost every village has a pub. Locals come to chat, eat, drink, sing or dance, depending on the time of day. Sometimes, musicians play, creating an even warmer atmosphere. When you stop off in the villages, push open the doors of the pubs to toast with a good Guinness or enjoy fish and chips while listening to traditional Irish music. Pub-hopping is also an opportunity to meet Irish people and learn more about the country. Curious and welcoming, the Irish are always happy to share slices of life with visitors, and to tell the old local legends that are legion in County Kerry.
Leisure or 
Fit From TRALEE to GLENBEIGH 49km 530m 
From GLENBEIGH to CAHERSIVEEN 37km 200m
Heading west from Glenbeigh, your cycling route takes you to the peaceful and tranquil shores of Kells Bay. From here you continue westwards to end your day in the town of Cahersiveen, overlooking the island of Valentia.
Traditionally the gateway to the Ring of Kerry, the town’s streets are lined with colourful buildings, small shops and welcoming cafes.
As you stroll through the streets of Cahersiveen, discover the warm, welcoming atmosphere of a traditional Irish town. Now’s the time to pop into a pub for a local ale and experience the atmosphere.
CAHERSIVEEN, VALENTIA ISLAND LOOP 49km 400m
Make a loop to Valentia Island. Here you can discover the island’s rich history, from the home of the Knights of Kerry to the 360-million-year-old ancient tetrapod. Your day’s journey also includes a stop at the majestic Kerry Sea Cliffs, offering breathtaking views and a memorable experience.
From CAHERSIVEEN to SNEEM 51km 537m
You follow the coastal roads to your destination, Sneem, passing through the picturesque town of Waterville. Leaving Waterville, you climb Coomaskista, which offers superb views of the coast from its summit vantage point. You then follow the coastline and beaches of Derrynane to Sneem.
- For a few more km 58km 850m
You can take this alternative route through the mountains.
This option offers a serene and less touristy experience than the busy coastal route, especially during the peak summer season. However, be prepared for a more challenging route, as this mountainous route involves a significant difference in altitude. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for a more isolated and adventurous cycling experience.
From SNEEM to KENMARE 32km 415m
Leaving Sneem, your route heads inland along rolling country roads. You are surrounded by lush green farmland and charming old hedgerows with dense dry stone walls. The day ends in the historic town of Kenmare, known for its wide range of restaurants, pubs and shops offering local cuisine, live music and crafts. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy good food and local culture, with well-preserved Georgian buildings and an increasingly rare traditional market place.
From KENMARE to KILLARNEY 48km 626m
Your stage takes you to Molls Gap, offering breathtaking views of Killarney’s enchanting lakes. Continuing on, you enter the quiet and secluded Black Valley, a hidden gem known for its rugged beauty and unspoilt nature. The Black Valley is one of the last places in Ireland to be connected to the electricity grid, a testament to its isolation.
This remote valley is a place of serenity where you can immerse yourself in nature and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The Black Valley is rich in history, making it a unique stop on your journey. From here you continue to the famous Gap of Dunloe, known for its spectacular beauty, before finishing in Killarney: a perfect blend of natural wonders and cultural richness.
KILLARNEY
End of your stay after breakfast.
Have a safe trip back!
Essential Range
You want to enjoy your itinerary without anything fancy. Our ”essential” range offers a simple accommodation for a good night’s rest in a simple hotel, guesthouse, rest house or hostel.
Starting from 1170€/participant in Self Guided option | See detailed prices
Comfort Range
Our quality standard at Abicyclette. This type of accommodation includes 2 and 3 stars hotels. Depending on the itinerary, you might spend some nights in approved guesthouses. You enjoy a double bedroom with private bathroom and toilet and adapted welcome for you and your bikes.
Quote on request | Contact us
Privilege Range
Opt for total comfort in charming 3 and 4 star hotels which offer all the services you need and a special welcome for you and your bikes.
Quote on request | Contact us
Price includes
- Accommodation: 7 nights in a Double room
- 7 breakfasts
- Luggage transfer
- Phone assistance 24/7
- Application fee
- Itineraries described on the following media:
- Roadbook, detailed travel documents (1 per room)
- Mobile navigation app
- Loan of a trekking GPS
- Bike rental option includes theft and breakage cover
- Day 1 : Orientation in Tralee
Price does not include
- bike rental (see option)
- Breakfast on day 1
- Lunches
- Dinners not included in "Price includes"
- Tourist taxes
- Drinks, visits and other personal expenses
A “homemade” tour by a local partner specializing in Ireland:
- Routes chosen with the Abicyclette team for their tourist & cycling interests, fully marked and removed from trafic
- Accommodation chosen for the quality of their welcome, atmosphere, services and gastronomy
- A great flexibility of organization that adapts to your needs and desires: you leave on the date of your choice! We check the availability of accommodation to ensure your departure.
Assistance close at hand :
- A personalized welcome on the first day of your trip by a local guide who will give you your travel documents.
- The use of an app or GPS to follow the itinerary without ever having to look for your way (bike mount provided)
- Telephone assistance 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. from the ABICYCLETTE team
- Local telephone assistance 7 days a week
- Luggage transfer service
And also:
- Comfortable bike rentals, ideal for this itinerary on mainly cycle paths.
- The option to subscribe to a cancellation & multi-risk insurance covering you in case of problems or the unexpected
We offer a high-end bike rental service. Our bikes are suited for road and gravel road long-distance cycling. Fully equipped and highly reliable, they are faithful travel companions.
Our rentals include a "breakage and theft guarantee" for peace of mind when travelling. Information and details from your advisor.
Hybrid touring bikeLightweight Aluminimum Frame and Fork Shimano 27 Speed Groupset 700c x 35mm Tyres Shimano Hydraulic Disc Brakes Supplied equipment per bike
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Electric BikeShimano Deore 1 x 11 Groupset, 38t Front Chainring accompanied by an 11-51t Rear Cassette Shimano Hydraulic Disc Brakes 630wh Battery for extended range Full Mudgaurds Integrated Lights Supplied equipment per bike
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Getting here
Departure city : TRALEE
Coming by car
- at more than 16h from PARIS
- at more than 16h from BORDEAUX
- at more than 16h from LYON
Arrival city : KILLARNEY
Coming by car
- at more than 16h from PARIS
- at more than 16h from AMSTERDAM
- at more than 24h from MILAN
Coming by train
- Killarney Train Station - More than 12h from Paris
Coming by plane
- Kerry Airport
*Parking: Since many of our clients travel by train or plane, we do not include parking in our packages. In addition, many accommodations don’t have the capacity to park a vehicle for the duration of your cycling vacation. So if you’re planning to arrive by car, we suggest you check parking options when you make your reservation. If you reserve a parking space at the first or last accommodation of your stay, you must pay the accommodation provider on site.
* Abicyclette Voyages accompanies you on demand, including transportation solutions.
How to get back to the starting point
- Return by car in 0h00 to your starting point
- Private shuttle: see detailed fares or contact us
Recommended equipment
Bike
- Hybrid Bike or Touring Bike or Gravel Bike
- 18 to 30-speed transmission
- 26- to 29-inch wheels
- Tires: 35 to 42 section, reinforced against punctures
- Disc brakes recommended
- 2 bottle cages
- Bell
- Front and rear lighting
Clothing and equipment
- Helmet (supplied with bike rental unless otherwise specified locally)
- 1 bike mount for smartphone to use the mobile route planner application
- Suitable cycling clothing:
- bib, shorts or tights: elastic and breathable, to facilitate movement and wick away perspiration
- Breathable T-shirts, synthetic or merino wool
- Breathable windbreaker
- Thermal or fleece jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- 1 pair of sunglasses
- 1 pair of cycling shoes
- 1 backpack or 1 or 2 carrier bags
- 1 or 2 water bottles (supplied with bike rental in France)
- 1 lock (supplied with bike rental)
- Technical details, recommended by the team for optimum comfort:
- 1 pair of gloves or mittens, depending on season and destination
- Padded bib (chamois)
- High-visibility vest or fluorescent belt
- Neck warmer and cap
Bike maintenance
- Emergency repair kit: 2 or 3 inner tubes, patches, pump, tire levers, multi-tools
- Maintenance kit: rag, oil, brake pads
Other
- A suitcase for your belongings carried in the vehicle (limited to one per person)
- Street clothes
- 1 pair of evening shoes
- Fleece jacket for the evening
- Toiletry bag
- Telephone and charger
Terms of payment and cancellation
The full terms and conditions of sale are available here: https://www.abicyclette-voyages.com/conditions-generales-de-vente/
Booking and payment
- Departure more than 30 days before your booking: payment of a deposit of 30%, excluding insurance, at the time of booking. If you have taken out travel insurance, it must be paid in full at the time of booking to guarantee its validity.
- Departure within 30 days of your booking: payment of the total cost of your stay. Or payment of the balance of the holiday if you have already paid a deposit.
Cancellation of the Contract
You may cancel the Contract at any time before the start of the Tour, subject to payment of a cancellation fee. Any total or partial cancellation will incur the following costs per participant:
| Cancellation period | Fees |
| From the date of Booking to 60 days or more before departure or the 1st day of the programme | 5% of the total cost of the Tour (including options); a minimum of 100 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer |
| Between 59 and 30 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 10% of the total cost of the Tour (including options); a minimum of 120 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer
|
| Between 29 and 10 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 30% of the total amount of the Tour (including options) a minimum of 150 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer |
| Entre 9 à 7 jours avant le départ ou le 1er jour du programme | 45% du montant total du Voyage (options incluses) |
| Between 9 and 7 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 75% of the total cost of the trip (including options) |
| Less than 3 days to the day of departure or the 1st day of the programme | 100% of the total cost of the trip (including options) |
| No show on day of departure or 1st day of programme |
Duration 8 days and 7 nights
Level Leisure ou Fit
Departure date From April 1st to October 31st
Destination EuroVelo 1
Ireland
See detailed prices
Personalized service 
Easy ,
TRALEE, BOUCLE DE FENIT 28km 200m