Unspoilt Ring of Kerry Cycling

cycling elevations

Day 1: Arrive in Killarney

Check into your B&B for two nights, perhaps explore the town, choosing from one of its many restaurants for dinner. Then why not enjoy some live traditional Irish music in a local bar?
You stay at the Abbey Lodge (breakfast included)

Day 2: Killarney National Park 21km/13.5mi

A short warm-up ride through the stunning Killarney National Park follows a series of cycle trails where you'll see the meeting of the waters where two of the 'Three Lakes of Killarney' converge. Marvel at Torc Waterfall, the second highest in Ireland, visit Muckross House and its magnificent gardens, looking out for the famous red deer.
You stay at the Abbey Lodge (breakfast included)

Day 3: Killarney to Glenbeigh 53km/33.5mi

Leaving Killarney behind, you'll follow the Fossa Way cycle route, before heading on small country roads as you slowly climb up to the pretty Lough Acoose, below the peak of Carrauntuohill, Ireland's highest mountain. Descending, you'll cycle along the shores of Lough Caragh and on to charming Glenbeigh and its blue flag beach. If you have time, pedal down to Rossbeigh Strand and dip your toes in the Atlantic.
You stay at the Towers Hotel (breakfast included)

Day 4: Glenbeigh to Cahersiveen 38km/24mi

You'll follow the route of the coast today, passing small farms and on to the beautiful and peaceful shores of Kells Bay. Heading along a scenic narrow road fringed by large green meadows and peaks in the distance, a circular loop at the end takes you past Ballycarbery Castle and a wonderful seaside view and two early Christian stone forts. You'll arrive in the lively town of Cahersiveen, the birthplace of Daniel O'Connell, the Irish political leader (1775-1847).
You stay at the San Antoine (breakfast included)

Day 5: Cahersiveen to Blackstones Bridge 40km/25mi

Leaving Cahersiveen on the old road you'll pass the ruins of Daniel O'Connell's birth home, before heading back inland where you'll see ruined abbeys and ancient graveyards. After a short descent, a climb up and over the stunning Ballaghasheen Pass will reward you with views back to Killarney and Ireland's highest mountain. A long descent on narrow roads alongside a gushing river takes you to Blackstones Bridge and your quirky and welcoming B&B for the night.
You stay at Blackstones House (breakfast and evening meal)

Day 6: Blackstones Bridge to Kenmare 42km/26.5mi

Another stunning rural ride today as you head up and over the spectacular Ballaghbeama Gap; you are more likely to encounter sheep on the roads than vehicles. The road takes you through boulder-strewn countryside, cycling by small lakes, following the Blackwater River. Your day finishes in the beautiful town of Kenmare, also called 'the gateway to Kerry', and your luxury guesthouse for the night.
You stay at the Rockcrest House B&B (breakfast included)

Day 7: Kenmare to Killarney 54km/34mi

As final bike rides go, they don't get much better than this. You'll cycle to Moll's Gap - a panoramic spot that reaches a summit of 860 feet - and continue to the Black Valley. This is one of the last remaining areas of Ireland that is still remote and untouched; with rich fertile meadows and a roaring river, it feels like a land that time forgot. From here you'll climb to one of the most beautiful places in Ireland, the Gap of Dunloe, which was created during the Ice Age. Cycling along this glaciated valley, you'll meander around the many glacial lakes dotted throughout and marvel at the sheer jagged rock faces towering above you. You'll head back into Killarney through the National Park, passing the 15th century Ross Castle, before returning to your B&B for your last night (and perhaps a final Guinness).
You stay at the Abbey Lodge (breakfast included)

Day 8: Leave Killarney

Departure after breakfast. Transfers can be arranged at a supplement, perhaps enjoy extra nights in Killarney to finish your trip.