The Ring of Kerry has so much to offer tourists. The 180km route does take a bit of time to explore. This article looks at some highlights along the Ring of Kerry and off the beaten track that should be explored. The attractions listed here are in order of preference of the author.
Geokaun Mountain
Valentia Island is one of Ireland’s most westerly points, and is linked to the mainland by the Maurice O’Neill Memorial Bridge. Maurice O’Neill for those who are interested was shot dead in 1942 for Republican Activities. He was a young farmer from the nearby town Cahersiveen.
The first lookout on Valentia Island is obvious as you drive across the bridge. This lookout does provide fantastic views, however, for a more impressive view visit the Geokaun Mountain viewing platform. Entry is €5 and be prepared to drive up some very steep inclines. However the views at the top in are simply stunning.
To the east of Geokaun Mountain you will see Knight’s Town, Valentia Island Lighthouse, Beginish (island) and the town of Cahersiveen. To the West are stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Skellig Michael in the distance.
After visiting Geokaun Mountain, travel back to the mainland by ferry from Knightstown. The town and harbour are beautiful and the ferry journey is very short.
Gap of Dunloe
The Gap of Dunloe is a narrow and picturesque mountain pass between the Magillycuddy’s Reeks and Purple Mountain. In total, it is about 11km from north to south. The Gap is popular amoung tourists, with large numbers travelling via horse drawn trap or on foot.
The Gap of Dunloe is extremely picturesque, with five lakes and steep mountains on either side. The road is open to public cars, but be aware that the road is very narrow and during busy times, progress is very slow. This must simply be one of the most beautiful mountain passes in the World.
Cloon Lough
This is most certainly off the beaten track. When I visited this lake, there was nobody in sight except for a farmer working his cows. I stopped here, found a comfortable place to sit and spent an hour reading my booking and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. In front of me was the beautiful Cloon Lough while ahead were the mountains surrounding the valley. In the entire time I spent here, only one other car travelled along the road. If a remote spot is what you are looking for, this is it.
Unfortunately, I forgot to take a picture of the Lough itself; this picture is taken looking the opposite direction.
The Black Valley
On the far side of the Gap of Dunloe is The Black Valley. This is so remote that it was among the last paces in Ireland to get electricity. Believe it or not, electricity only came here in 1976, followed two years later by phone services. Today, the valley remains a beautiful and unspoilt area with numerous stopping points and small roads to explore.
The black valley connects the Gap of Dunloe with Moll’s Gap. However, the best parts of the Black Valley are to be found by pulling over alongside the River Gearhameen River and getting out of your car. In additional, it is highly recommended to drive towards Lough Gummeenduff. The views are simply stunning. Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrantuohill rises up from the black valley and is a very impressive sight.
In Conclusion
I would like to acknowledge Europcar, particularly their Dublin Airport location for the excellent service and the fantastic car! Here it is, pictured beside Cloon Lough.
www.taylormadeireland.com
Geokaun Mountain
Valentia Island is one of Ireland’s most westerly points, and is linked to the mainland by the Maurice O’Neill Memorial Bridge. Maurice O’Neill for those who are interested was shot dead in 1942 for Republican Activities. He was a young farmer from the nearby town Cahersiveen.
The first lookout on Valentia Island is obvious as you drive across the bridge. This lookout does provide fantastic views, however, for a more impressive view visit the Geokaun Mountain viewing platform. Entry is €5 and be prepared to drive up some very steep inclines. However the views at the top in are simply stunning.
To the east of Geokaun Mountain you will see Knight’s Town, Valentia Island Lighthouse, Beginish (island) and the town of Cahersiveen. To the West are stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Skellig Michael in the distance.
After visiting Geokaun Mountain, travel back to the mainland by ferry from Knightstown. The town and harbour are beautiful and the ferry journey is very short.
Gap of Dunloe
The Gap of Dunloe is a narrow and picturesque mountain pass between the Magillycuddy’s Reeks and Purple Mountain. In total, it is about 11km from north to south. The Gap is popular amoung tourists, with large numbers travelling via horse drawn trap or on foot.
The Gap of Dunloe is extremely picturesque, with five lakes and steep mountains on either side. The road is open to public cars, but be aware that the road is very narrow and during busy times, progress is very slow. This must simply be one of the most beautiful mountain passes in the World.
Cloon Lough
This is most certainly off the beaten track. When I visited this lake, there was nobody in sight except for a farmer working his cows. I stopped here, found a comfortable place to sit and spent an hour reading my booking and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. In front of me was the beautiful Cloon Lough while ahead were the mountains surrounding the valley. In the entire time I spent here, only one other car travelled along the road. If a remote spot is what you are looking for, this is it.
Unfortunately, I forgot to take a picture of the Lough itself; this picture is taken looking the opposite direction.
The Black Valley
On the far side of the Gap of Dunloe is The Black Valley. This is so remote that it was among the last paces in Ireland to get electricity. Believe it or not, electricity only came here in 1976, followed two years later by phone services. Today, the valley remains a beautiful and unspoilt area with numerous stopping points and small roads to explore.
The black valley connects the Gap of Dunloe with Moll’s Gap. However, the best parts of the Black Valley are to be found by pulling over alongside the River Gearhameen River and getting out of your car. In additional, it is highly recommended to drive towards Lough Gummeenduff. The views are simply stunning. Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrantuohill rises up from the black valley and is a very impressive sight.
In Conclusion
I would like to acknowledge Europcar, particularly their Dublin Airport location for the excellent service and the fantastic car! Here it is, pictured beside Cloon Lough.
www.taylormadeireland.com
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