Ok here goes as promised…
We have compiled a list of our top tips for pitstops along the Ring of Kerry.
Take a self- drive along the Ring of Kerry and enjoy the breath-taking beauty it has to offer.
Our first pitstop and maybe one of our favourites is the sheep dog trials in Kells. The sheep dog demonstration at Caitins is one of the most exciting and fun experiences you will have along the way. Local farmer Brendan Ferris will introduce you to his sheep dogs with a flock of sheep in the mountain backdrop behind. Of course, Brendan gives a fantastic demonstration on sheep dogs work on a real farm. The sheep dog responds to Brendan’s whistling commands and gathers the sheep to bring them downwards to a pen near where you will be watching. This is a unique opportunity and one that must not be missed. Brendan even takes a round of questions at the end for any budding sheep farmers. The show loops continuously until midday so you can arrive anytime between 9.30am to 12 noon from May to September.
For more details, contact Caitlin’s pub on +353 66 947 7614 or email info@caitins.com
Next up is O Neill’s in Renard for a quick bite to eat before heading off in the ferry to Valentia Island. Located at Renard Point overlooking the spectacular Valentia harbour, O’Neill’s The Point is a unique seafood bar serving super fresh, locally sourced seafood in a relaxed and friendly environment. Check out their website here https://www.oneillsthepoint.ie/ and personally, I recommend the Seafood Platter as one of our faves! Please note they do not take bookings and work off a walk-in basis only. That Seafood Platter is most definitely worth the wait!
After you’ve enjoyed that spectacular lunch, it’s time to set off again and next stop is the ferry across to Valentia Island and we highly recommend taking in the Lighthouse at Cromwell point. One of the Great lighthouses of Ireland, a tour is a must when visiting the Island. Packed with history, the site of the Cromwell Point Lighthouse was originally home to a Cromwell Feetwood Fort believed to have been built in the 16th century which was one of two built on Valentia Island around this time. Opened 11.00am to 6.00pm from Easter to September, check out more information and admission prices here, even a special discounted ticket for families available. http://www.valentiaisland.ie/explore-valentia/lighthouse/
When you’ve explored Valentia Island, next stop is Skellig Chocolate located in Ballinskelligs overlooking Skellig Rock because let’s be honest, who doesn’t love chocolate. This is another exciting experience, Skellig chocolate is a family run business, here you can see the chocolates being made, ask questions and of course taste the freshly made treats. For more information on Skellig Chocolate, check out the website - https://skelligschocolate.com/welcome/
Off we go again, this time to Derrynane where we recommend a visit to Derrynane House the ancestral home of Daniel O Connell, lawyer, politician and statesman, and one of the great figures in Irish history. Learn about where he grew up and why Derrynane had such an influence on Daniels life, see for yourself the beautiful surroundings and of course while you are there, a stroll along the beach cannot be missed. Keep up to date with Derrynane house opening times and tours - http://derrynanehouse.ie/
Ok, so that’s been a fun packed day, next stop is the picturesque town of Kenmare where we recommend stopping off and just strolling around this quaint little town. We think it will capture your imagination with the fantastic colours strewn across the buildings and the flowers will surely be in full bloom as you explore. Pop in and out of all the quirky little shops and most definitely stop off for a quick bite in one of the town’s well renowned restaurants or cafes to keep you going before returning to the Castlerosse later. Sit back, relax and watch the world go by!
So that’s it, you are now on route back to Killarney via the N71 Molls Gap Road, this ever-winding road has beauty on every turn. There is so many photo stops along the way, we don’t know where to start but we definitely recommend a stop at Ladies view where you are sure to capture the perfect picture of one of Killarney’s beauty spots. It is probably the best-known view in Killarney and is definitely a major tourist attraction. 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. We hope you enjoy the view as much as we do!
So, there you have it, a spectacular day out on the Ring of Kerry and our top tips for you to enjoy!