Ring of Kerry and Skellig Ring Private Tour
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Ring of Kerry and Skellig Ring Private Tour

Active
(83 reviews)
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The famous Ring of Kerry is considered one of Ireland’s most beautiful scenic drives and we will be visiting historical sights, magnificent vistas, quaint little villages and many off the beaten path places on our tour.

Wild Atlantic Tours specialise in providing award winning guided tours of Kerry and South West Ireland. We are a family run business based in Killarney, County Kerry. Our mission is to ‘ensure that each & every one of our guests really enjoy their time spent with Wild Atlantic Tours & that they leave having experienced our culture, visited our hidden gems and chatted with the people of our beautiful country.’

Paudie was born and raised in South Kerry and enjoys sharing the beautiful places where he grew up with his guests.

Available options

Ring of Kerry and Skellig Ring Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Experienced Driver/Guide who was born and raised in South Kerry

Detailed itinerary

1

A stop at the shore of the beautiful Lough Leane in the outskirts of Killarney.

2
Stop 2

Cahergall Stone Fort was built around 600AD. With walls approx 6 m high and some 3 m thick this dry stone wall fort is one of the best examples of an early medieval stone fort to be found on the Ring of Kerry.

3

Valentia Island lies just off the south west coast of County Kerry and is one of Ireland's westernmost points. It combines fascinating history, beautiful scenery and an interesting cultural scene, making it a great place to visit on the Ring of Kerry.

4
Stop 4

The Slate Quarry first opened in 1816 under the direction of the Knight of Kerry and has been a working quarry on and off since that date. Famous for the quality of the slate quarried, this recently reopened quarry is famous for providing the slate for the Paris Opera House, London’s Houses of Parliament and many billiard tables, including one made for the Duke of Wellington & Queen Victoria.

5

The site of the Cromwell Point Lighthouse was originally home to a 17th century Cromwellian Fort, which was one of two built on Valentia Island around this time. The outline of the Cromwell Point fort with its bastions and barrack inside its wall can still be easily traced from the air, lying just inside the lighthouse enclosure wall. The fort was maintained after the Restoration and there are various State Paper entries about its repair over the period 1663-1665. It was disestablished in 1669. The first light for Cromwell Point was originally applied for on 30 March 1828 by the Right Honorary Maurice Fitzgerald, Knight of Kerry. Work commenced on the lighthouse ten years later in 1838, the light was first exhibited on 1 February 1841. Since November 1947 the light has been automated.

6

Portmagee is a lovely fishing village in southwest county Kerry on Valentia Harbour, from where you can cross the bridge over to Valentia Island.

7

Kerry Cliffs are widely accepted as the most spectacular cliffs in Kerry. The cliffs stand over 1000ft above the wild Atlantic and were formed in a desert environment 400 million years ago. Out to the west stand the amazing Skellig Rocks one of only three UNESCO world heritage sites in Ireland. Of course the Kerry Cliffs are the closest viewing point to the great rocks and also the famous Puffin Island. Allied with these facts as you stand at the summit of this mystical place and breath in the freshest of air, deep in to your lungs from the wild Atlantic and observe this natural wonder. You can relax and unwind and observe the majestic views from here which reach out for 30 miles of the surrounding areas.

8

Ballinskelligs beach is 1.0 Km of immaculate sandy beach lying in Ballinskelligs Bay by Mc Carthys Castle. Separated from Ballinskelligs pier by Ballinskelligs Abbey, the beach is one of the best kept secrets in South Kerry and has been a favourite with local families for many years. It is an Internationally Environmental Recognition Blue Flag beach.

9

Waterville (An Coireán) is a small coastal village located between the Atlantic Ocean and Lough Currane on the scenic and famous Ring of Kerry along the Wild Atlantic Way.

10

Sneem is a colourful village in South west Kerry, blessed with exquisite scenery, wild landscapes and imposing Kerry mountains. The name Sneem, means ‘the knot’ that ties together the Ring of Kerry. Here, the Killarney Mountain Road and the Ring of Kerry’s Kenmare and Waterville Roads all lead to Sneem.

11
Stop 11

Ladies View is about 12 miles from Killarney. The view here is probably the best known of Killarney and is a major attraction for visitors. Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting visited here during the royal visit in 1861. They were so taken with the view that it was named after them.

12
Stop 12

Torc Waterfall is approximately 7 kilometres from Killarney Town. A short walk of approx 200 metres brings you to the waterfall.

What's not included

Lunch
Optional tours of Valentia Slate Quarry or Valentia Lighthouse, entrance fees are not included
Entry fee of €5 per person into the Kerry High Cliffs

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9
19 reviews
5★
18
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 5.0
64 reviews
5★
64
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Killarney

Killarney is a picturesque town in southwestern Ireland known for its stunning natural beauty, historic sites, and vibrant cultural scene. Nestled in the heart of County Kerry, it serves as a gateway to the famous Ring of Kerry and offers a blend of outdoor adventures and charming Irish hospitality.

Top Attractions

Killarney National Park

A vast park featuring lakes, waterfalls, and scenic walking trails, including the famous Torc Waterfall and the Ross Castle.

Nature Half day to full day Free (some attractions within the park have entry fees)

Ross Castle

A 15th-century castle on the shores of Lough Leane, offering guided tours and historical reenactments.

Historical 1-2 hours €7-10

Muckross House and Gardens

A 19th-century mansion with beautifully maintained gardens and a traditional farm.

Historical 2-3 hours €12-15

Gap of Dunloe

A stunning glacial valley with hiking trails, horseback riding, and boat tours on the lakes.

Adventure Half day to full day €20-50 depending on the activity

Staigue Fort

An ancient stone fort dating back to the Bronze Age, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Historical 2-3 hours including travel Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Irish Stew

A hearty dish made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian with substitutions.

Boxty

A traditional Irish potato pancake, often served with fillings like cheese or meat.

Main Course Can be made gluten-free.

Seafood Chowder

A creamy soup made with fresh local seafood, potatoes, and leeks.

Soup Contains dairy and seafood.

Soda Bread

A traditional Irish bread made with buttermilk and baking soda.

Bread Contains gluten.

Popular Activities

Hiking Horseback riding Boat tours Spas Scenic drives Café hopping Visiting historic sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the busiest time with warm weather and long daylight hours, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

15-20°C 59-68°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English, Irish
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (GMT+1 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Killarney is generally safe with low crime rates. Standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe trip.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Use licensed taxis
  • • Be cautious at night in less populated areas

Getting there

By air
  • Kerry Airport • 20 km from Killarney
  • Shannon Airport • 120 km from Killarney
By train

Killarney Railway Station

By bus

Killarney Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with frequent services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Local taxi services

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Killarney Town Center Muckross Fossy Bridge

Day trips

Gap of Dunloe
10 km from Killarney • Full day

A stunning glacial valley offering hiking, horseback riding, and boat tours on the lakes.

Ring of Kerry
160 km loop from Killarney • Full day

A famous circular route offering breathtaking coastal and mountain views, historic sites, and charming villages.

Dingle Peninsula
60 km from Killarney • Full day

A picturesque peninsula with stunning coastal views, historic sites, and the famous Dingle town.

Festivals

Killarney Food and Drink Festival • September Killarney House Traditional Music and Dance Festival • July Killarney Christmas Market • December

Pro tips

  • Visit the national park early in the morning for fewer crowds and better wildlife sightings.
  • Try traditional Irish music sessions in local pubs for an authentic experience.
  • Book boat tours and guided activities in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Explore the town on foot to discover hidden gems and local shops.
  • Visit the Killarney Market for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal foods.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 6
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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