Unspoilt Ring of Kerry Cycling

On arriving in Tralee, check into your Hotel. Enjoy a relaxed evening in preparation for your cycling adventures. Treat yourself to a meal at one of Tralee’s many restaurants or explore local culture with a show or exhibition at Siamsa Tire, the National Folk Theatre of Ireland.

Your cycling adventure begins in Tralee, heading southwest beneath the majestic foothills of Carrantuohill, Ireland’s tallest mountain. The route offers spectacular views of the serene Caragh Lake as you traverse quiet backroads away from the busy Ring of Kerry. Your day concludes in the quaint coastal village of Glenbeigh, where you’ll spend the night. Known for its traditional pubs, unspoiled beaches, and the stunning Rossbeigh Strand, Glenbeigh is an ideal retreat for those seeking a peaceful seaside escape.

Heading west from Glenbeigh, your journey takes you to the serene shores of Kells Bay, a haven of tranquillity. Continuing along the route, you’ll arrive in Cahersiveen, a charming town overlooking Valentia Island. Known as the gateway to the Ring of Kerry, Cahersiveen features vibrant streets lined with colourful buildings, inviting shops, and cosy cafes. As you wander through its welcoming streets, you’ll experience the heart of a traditional Irish town. With two nights here, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the area and savour its natural beauty, making this leg of your adventure both peaceful and rewarding.

With no need to change accommodations today, you have a range of exciting options to explore. If sea conditions allow, consider a boat trip from Portmagee to Skellig Michael, a remarkable 6th-century monastic site that feels like stepping into another world.

Alternatively, you can opt for a looped cycling route to Valentia Island. Discover its fascinating history, from the residence of the Knights of Kerry to the ancient Tetrapod tracks, dating back 360 million years. Along the way, don’t miss the awe-inspiring Kerry Sea Cliffs, offering stunning views and an unforgettable experience.

Today’s route takes you on coastal roads to your next destination of Sneem, passing through the quaint little town of Waterville on your way, the home away from home for Charlie Chaplin and his family throughout the 60’s. Leaving Waterville you take on the climb of Coomaskista, to be awarded with stunning coastal vistas at the viewing point on the summit of the climb before skirting the Derrynane coastline and beaches on your final push to Sneem. Options to visit Derrynane House, the ancestral home of Daniel O’Connell, one of Irelands most important historical figures.

Departing Sneem, your route takes you inland along gently rolling country roads. You’ll pass through lush green farmland framed by ancient hedgerows and dry-stone walls, a quintessentially Irish landscape. The day ends in Kenmare, a lively heritage town renowned for its array of restaurants, pubs, and shops offering local cuisine, live music, and handcrafted goods. With its well-preserved Georgian architecture and rare traditional market square, Kenmare provides the perfect setting to savour delicious food and immerse yourself in the local culture.

As final bike rides go, they don’t get much better than this. You’ll cycle to Moll’s Gap – a panoramic spot that reaches a summit of 860 feet – and continue to the Black Valley. This is one of the last remaining areas of Ireland that is still remote and untouched; with rich fertile meadows and a roaring river, it feels like a land that time forgot. From here you’ll climb to one of the most beautiful places in Ireland, the Gap of Dunloe, which was created during the Ice Age. Cycling along this glaciated valley, you’ll meander around the many glacial lakes dotted throughout and marvel at the sheer jagged rock faces towering above you. You’ll head back into Killarney through the National Park, passing the 15th century Ross Castle, before returning to your B&B for your last night (and perhaps a final Guinness).

Departure after breakfast. Transfers can be arranged at a supplement, perhaps enjoy extra nights in Killarney to finish your trip.