Best Ring of Kerry Tour ex Killarney inc Killarney National Park

The Best Ring of Kerry Tour from Killarney offers a compact yet comprehensive way to experience one of Ireland’s most celebrated scenic routes. Priced at $52.14 per person, this 6-hour coach journey is ideal for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of driving. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 339 reviews and 91% recommending the tour, it remains a popular choice for visitors eager to explore the Iveragh Peninsula. The tour includes visits to Killarney National Park, historic villages, and natural landmarks like the Killarney Lakes and Macgillycuddy’s Reeks. The journey is well-paced, with insightful commentary, making it perfect for those who wish to absorb Ireland’s coastal beauty comfortably within around 6 hours.

While the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery, it does involve some additional costs for stops like the sheepdog demonstration and lunch. This trip suits travelers seeking a guided experience with rich commentary, scenic stops, and a flexible schedule in a small group setting. The round-trip transport is included, and the air-conditioned coach ensures comfort throughout the day.

Key Points

• 6-hour guided coach tour covering the Ring of Kerry and Killarney National Park
• Includes visits to historic sites like the Kerry Bog Village and Daniel O’Connell Memorial Church
• Scenic stops at Moll’s Gap, Ladies View, Rossbeigh Beach, and the Killarney Lakes
• Entrance to attractions like the Kerry Bog Village Museum is not included, but the stops offer plenty of photo opportunities
• Tour is well-rated for its driver’s knowledge, commentary, and scenic stops, with an average rating of 4.7 from 339 reviews

The Meeting Point and Schedule in Killarney

The tour departs from Deros Tours, 22 Main Street, Killarney at 10:15 am, with check-in starting 30 minutes earlier. The air-conditioned coach seats up to 40 travelers, making for an intimate experience. The tour concludes back at the starting point, making pickup and drop-off straightforward.

Exploring the Iconic Stops Along the Ring of Kerry

The first stop is at the Kerry Bog Village Museum, where a reconstructed 19th-century Irish village provides insight into rural life during the famine years. Authentic thatched cottages, sound effects, and period furnishings bring history to life. The museum is a spacious, family-friendly site, though admission is not included.

Next, the sheepdog demonstration at Kells Sheepdogs Ring of Kerry offers an engaging look at working sheepdogs responding to whistled commands. The demonstration lasts about 30 minutes and is a highlight for many visitors. The cost of the sheepdog show is not included, but it’s considered a unique experience.

Passing through Cahersiveen, the famous Daniel O’Connell Memorial Church stands out, constructed partly from Northern Irish granite and marble from Rome. The church honors Daniel O’Connell, a key figure who fought for Catholic Emancipation and Irish rights in the 19th century. Cahersiveen itself is a picturesque town with historical ties to the Fenian Rising of 1867.

The tour then moves to Waterville, a charming village famous for its narrow isthmus between Lough Currane and Ballinskelligs Bay. This stop offers 20 minutes of free exploration, with no admission fee, giving visitors a chance to enjoy sea views and local scenery.

Next, Sneem welcomes visitors with its colorful houses and stunning landscapes. Known as “the knot” in Irish, the village has won multiple Tidy Towns Awards. Tourists often enjoy ice cream or afternoon tea here, with about 30 minutes allocated for the stop.

Moll’s Gap presents spectacular mountain vistas of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, including Carrantuohill, Ireland’s highest peak. Named after Moll Kissane, the pass is a popular viewpoint offering photo opportunities of the rugged landscape.

Ladies View is another famed lookout point, named after Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting. From here, travelers see winding waters flowing into the Killarney Lakes and the Long Range Mountains.

The final highlight is Killarney National Park, Ireland’s first national park established in 1932. Spanning 26,000 acres, the park features the McGillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range, as well as the famous Killarney Lakes. The park offers breathtaking scenery and is managed jointly by the National Parks & Wildlife Service and Muckross House.

The Guided Commentary and Experience

Throughout the tour, the driver also functions as a guide, providing insightful commentary on local history, geography, and famous Irish residents like Daniel O’Connell. Many reviews commend the driver’s knowledge and entertaining style, with some noting special Irish music played during the ride, creating a lively atmosphere.

The guide’s storytelling enhances the experience, especially at scenic viewpoints like Ladies View and Moll’s Gap. The pace of the tour is designed to balance sightseeing with comfort, avoiding overly long stops and ensuring the group remains on schedule. Narrow roads are navigated carefully in a small coach, making it a safer choice than self-driving for most visitors.

Practicalities and Additional Costs

The tour price includes local taxes, driver/guide, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. However, visitors should budget extra for food and drinks, as lunch is not included, and for admission fees at stops like the Kerry Bog Village Museum and sheepdog demonstration.

Comfort stops are scheduled at The Bog Village and Sneem, with alternative arrangements possible if the schedule changes. Reservation of priority seats (the first four rows) is available for an additional €8 per person, offering better views and more space.

The Reviews: What Visitors Appreciate and Caution

The majority of reviews praise the knowledgeable and entertaining guides, with drivers like Batt, Denis, and Sheila earning high marks for storytelling and Irish music. Scenic views and the variety of stops are consistently highlighted as major strengths.

Some criticisms focus on disappointing lunch stops or brief town visits, but these are minor compared to the overall value. A few reviews mention heavy rain affecting visibility, which is an unavoidable part of Irish weather but does not detract from the overall beauty of the tour.

The small group size and comfortable coach make for a relaxing experience, especially for those who prefer to avoid driving on narrow roads or navigating complex routes.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Killarney

This 6-hour tour packs a big punch in terms of scenic beauty, history, and local charm. It balances guided narration with free time at key locations, ensuring travelers get a good overview without feeling rushed. The inclusion of the Killarney National Park and famous viewpoints like Ladies View and Moll’s Gap makes it a comprehensive experience.

The price point is attractive, especially considering the quality of guides, comfort, and the variety of stops. The tour is particularly suited for visitors who want a well-organized, informative, and scenic day trip that covers the essence of the Ring of Kerry in a manageable timeframe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is accessible for most travelers, including families, thanks to comfortable seating and manageable stops, though parents should be aware of the duration and weather conditions.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price. Visitors should plan to purchase lunch and refreshments at stops like Cahersiveen or Sneem.

Can I reserve priority seats?
Yes, for an additional €8 per person, you can reserve priority seats in the first four rows for better views and more space.

What attractions require extra payment?
Admission to places like the Kerry Bog Village Museum and the sheepdog demonstration is not included in the tour fee and requires separate payment.

Is this tour suitable during bad weather?
The tour requires good weather for the best experience. If canceled due to poor weather, you can choose a different date or get a full refund.

How long are the stops at each location?
Stops vary from 20 to 30 minutes at sites like Waterville and Sneem, with some stops offering brief sightseeing opportunities or photo moments.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup is not included. Travelers meet at the Deros Tours office in central Killarney.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 40 travelers, providing a small-group feel and personalized attention.

Can I cancel the tour easily?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before are not refundable.

What makes this tour a good choice?
The combination of scenic highlights, expert guides, and value for money makes this tour stand out for visitors who want a well-organized and informative day trip from Killarney.

Is this tour recommended overall?
Yes, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 339 reviews, and 91% recommending it, this tour offers a trusted and enjoyable way to explore the Ring of Kerry and Killarney National Park.