What is the Wild Atlantic Way?

Discover Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way

Comprising 2,500km of winding road, the Wild Atlantic Way is a breathtakingly beautiful route along Ireland’s magnificent west coast. It starts on the Old Head of Kinsale in Cork and passes through nine counties before concluding at Ireland’s northern-most point at Malin Head in Donegal. The route takes in 157 discovery points, 1,000 attractions and over 2,500 activities.

Kerry is part of “Southern Peninsulas” portion and boasts some of the most spectacular scenery that you will see along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Ways to Explore the Wild Atlantic Way in Kerry

Most visitors to the Kingdom choose to explore the Wild Atlantic Way by car. The route is well-signposted and it is easy to find maps, so even if you are not familiar with the area you should be able to find your way around with ease.
Some intrepid travellers opt to discover the Wild Atlantic Way by bike. If this is something that appeals to you, then we recommend getting in touch with an experienced guide or cycling tour group that can help you discover the best that the region has to offer.
If you want to immerse yourself fully in the natural beauty of the region, then you may want to consider going by foot. There are plenty of spectacular walking routes along the Wild Atlantic Way in Kerry which cater to hikers of all skill levels.
Alternatively, there are plenty of coach tours that can bring you to all of the best spots. If you would like to learn more about the various coach tours available, please don’t hesitate to ask our expert staff today.

10 Unmissable Spots Along the Wild Atlantic Way in Kerry

1. Kenmare & Sneem

The picturesque villages of Kenmare and Sneem are located along the Iveragh Peninsula’s southernmost edge. Bounded by woodlands, rivers and mountains, these towns are particularly well-positioned for avid hikers due to their close proximity to some of Kerry’s best walking routes including the Sneem Loop, Gleninchaquin Park, and the Lomanagh Loop. Sneem and Kenmare are also highly-regarded for their rich food scenes and offer visitors an abundance of award-winning restaurants, cafés, and gastropubs to enjoy.

A haven of tranquility, the picturesque town of Kenmare links the world-famous Ring of Kerry with the rugged Beara Peninsula. With plenty of shops, restaurants and excellent accommodation, it's the perfect pitstop to plan your Kerry adventures! #wildatlanticway #wildatlanticwaykerry #kenmare #ringofkerry #bearapeninsula
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2. The Lakes of Killarney
Following your trip to Kenmare and Sneem, travel inland along the scenic Old Kenmare Road to Killarney where you can visit Ireland’s most famous national park. Killarney is most well-known for its three lakes - Lough Leane, Muckross Lake and the Upper Lake. Encircled by mountains, woodlands, and rich vegetation, this area boasts some of the most beautiful scenery that the Emerald Isle has to offer. We recommend dedicating at least a day of your trip to exploring the lakes of Killarney by bike, foot, or even by boat.

Lough Leane (The Lower Lake)

The Irish name of this lake roughly translates into English as the “lake of learning”. A historical gem, the shores of this lake boast the enchanting Muckross Abbey and Ross Castle. It is also possible to visit the Island of Innisfallen which is home to the ancient ruins of an abbey that was originally built in 600AD.

Muckross Lake

Located in a valley between the mountains, Muckross Lake has many pretty features including the charming Brickeen Bridge and Dinis Island. It is also here that you will find the renowned Torc Waterfall. For top-down panoramas of Muckross Lake, visit Ladies View which can be found just 12 miles away from Killarney town.

Upper Lake

The island-studded Upper Lake is the highest of the three lakes. The lake offers the perfect starting off point to explore the Gap of Dunloe and the Black Valley.

View of the Killarney Lakes from the Europe Hotel

3. Caherdaniel and Derrynane House

Standing at the very tip of the Iveragh Peninsula, the secluded village of Caherdaniel is most well-known as being the ancestral home of one of Ireland’s great heroes, Daniel “The Liberator” O’Connell. O’Connell’s homestead, Derrynane House, is now a heritage site and the surrounding plantations and garden walks have been transformed into Derrynane National Historic Park. During your trip to Caherdaniel, be sure to walk along the scenic Blue Flag beaches and sand-dunes. It is also well-worth visiting Abbey Island, where you can wander through the ruins of Derrynane Abbey while enjoying views of the Skellig Rocks.

4.Waterville
Charlie Chaplin statue in Waterville, Kerry

Nestled between Ballinskelligs Bay and Lough Currane, Waterville is the only village on the Ring of Kerry that is located right on the coast. This picturesque seafront town was a favourite of Charlie Chaplin who visited it every year for over a decade. The town celebrates this connection with the Annual Charlie Chaplin Comedy Film Festival which takes place in August. Waterville is well-known as a golfing destination and boasts one of the finest links courses in all of Ireland and the UK. It is also famed for game angling and keen fishers can choose from lake, river, shore and deep sea angling. The area is rich with heritage, and history buffs can explore many historical spots including Church Island and Loher Fort.

5. The Skellig Islands

“The search for solitude has led pilgrims to the edges of the known world – and beyond – throughout history. But few final destinations rival the remoteness of Skellig Michael, a lonely, storm-lashed rock off the west coast of Ireland that doubles as a Jedi sanctuary in the latest Star Wars films.” – Lonely Planet

The Skellig Islands are one of the biggest draws along the Wild Atlantic Way in Kerry. Comprised of two jagged rocks, Skellig Michael and Little Skellig, these islands were inhabited by a tiny community of early Christian monks from the 6th until the 13th century. You can still see the well-preserved beehive huts of this quiet monastic settlement on Skellig Michael, provided that you are willing to scale the 618 steps that have been carved into the rock face. The Skelligs are also home to colourful colonies of Puffin birds, who live on the islands during the summer months as they rear their Pufflings. You can arrange a boat trip to the Skelligs from the nearby villages of Ballinskelligs and Portmagee.

6. Valentia Island

Valentia Lighthouse at Cromwell Point

One of Ireland’s most westerly points, you can access Valentia Island by crossing the bridge at the Portmagee Channel. An ideal spot for hiking and biking, give yourself plenty of time to uncover the island’s many natural delights including Bray Head, Geokaun Mountain and the Fogher Cliffs. You can also gain an insight into Valentia’s rich history by visiting the heritage centre and Glanleam House.

7.Rossbeigh Beach & Glenbeigh

Affectionately known by locals as "The Jewel in the Ring of Kerry", Glenbeigh enjoys enviable proximity to mountains, beaches, rivers and lakes. Most visitors to the village come to see the stunning Rossbeigh beach – an unspoilt six-mile stretch of golden sands offering fantastic views of Inch beach and the Dingle Mountains. The surrounding area boats magnificent mountain scenery, and keen hikers will relish the challenge of the “Glenbeigh Horseshoe” circuit which takes in the hills from Seefin to Drung Hill.

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Stunning picture of Rossbeigh Beach Glenbeigh Co Kerry! Pic by IG/kierandalton99 #Ireland #Kerry #WildAtlanticWay #Travel

8.Inch

You can find Inch Beach nestled between outer Dingle Bay and inner Castlemaine Harbour. Inch has the distinction of being one of the longest uninterrupted sand beaches in Western Europe. It is a Blue Flag beach and offers a variety of water sports such as surfing, kayaking, windsurfing, kite surfing, and hang-gliding. There are also several beautiful walking routes available for those who simply want to drink in the breath-taking views of the Iveragh and Dingle Peninsulas.

9. Dingle Town

The lively fishing village of Dingle has long been one of the most loved spots along the Wild Atlantic Way in Kerry. The town boasts a wide array of activities including the OceanWorld Aquarium, the Dingle Distillery, and a number of boat tours. The town is sure to delight visitors with its buzzing musical and foodie culture. It is also the launching off point for trips around the spectacular Slea Head. Read our dedicated blog for more ideas on the best things to see and do in the Dingle Peninsula.

10. The Blasket Islands

The Blasket Island archipelago is made up of seven main islands and roughly 363 islets, rocks and reefs. The most westerly island group in Europe, the Blaskets are totally unique in their blend of fascinating history, rich cultural heritage, and breath-taking natural beauty. We recommend taking a tour of the Great Blasket Island so you can learn all about the island’s tumultuous history and its enormous contribution to Gaelic literature. The Blasket Islands have also been designated as a Special Protection Area due to their unspoilt landscapes and fantastically diverse flora and fauna. Simply unmissable!

Contact Us For More Tips about The Wild Atlantic Way in Kerry

If you are planning a trip to the “Kingdom” and would like to learn more about the best spots along the Wild Atlantic Way in Kerry, please don’t hesitate to ask our team for advice. We would be more than happy to offer up our top recommendations on the best things to see and do during your holiday.