Tours/Killarney/Explore the Ring of Kerry & Skellig Ring in Style-Private Tour
Viator · Private tour

Explore the Ring of Kerry & Skellig Ring in Style-Private Tour

5.0(18)Killarney1 hour
VIATOR5.0(3)TRIPADVISOR5.0(15)

Description

Embarking on a private tour of the Ring of Kerry and Skellig Ring is indeed a wonderful way to experience the enchanting beauty of County Kerry. With the flexibility to customize your itinerary, you can immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage at your own pace. Here's a glimpse of what you can expect: - Torc Waterfall: A magnificent 20-meter cascade set in a lush wooded glen, perfect for a refreshing stop. - Valentia Island: Offers breath-taking views and a chance to explore the historical Cahergall Fort. - Skellig Ring: Known for its dramatic coastal cliffs and panoramic views, it's a photographer's paradise. Since it's a private tour, you have the liberty to explore off the beaten path, visit quaint towns and villages, and take in the scenery without the crowds. Whether you're hiking to scenic spots or simply enjoying the drive, your tour can be tailored to include the sights and experiences that interest you the most.

Tour Options

Explore the Ring of Kerry & Skellig Ring in Style-Private Tour
  • Pickup included

Itinerary

Admission not included30 min

The Kerry Bog Village Museum is an open-air museum that showcases the culture and history of Ireland in the late 19th century. It is located on the Ring of Kerry, a scenic coastal route in County Kerry, Ireland. At the museum, you can see how people lived and worked in a typical Irish bog village, with thatched cottages, farm equipment, and turf cutting. You can also learn about the history and legends of the area, such as the famine, the land wars, and the Kerry Bog Pony. The museum also has two Irish Wolfhounds, the world's tallest dogs, that you can pet and take pictures with. The museum is open daily from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm (subject to weather conditions), and the admission fee is €5 per person. You can also visit the nearby Red Fox Inn, a traditional Irish pub and restaurant, where you can enjoy a drink or a meal.

30 min

Cahergall Stone Fort is an ancient stone ringfort and National Monument located in County Kerry, Ireland. It is one of the many stone forts found in the west of Ireland, and dates back to around the 7th century AD. Here are some key points about Cahergall Stone Fort: The fort is circular, with an internal diameter of 25 m (82 ft) and outer walls 4 m (13 ft) high and 5 m (16 ft) thick. The walls are made of dry-stone, meaning no mortar was used to hold them together. Inside the fort, there is another circular building and steps leading to the top of the wall.The fort was built as a defended farmstead for a local chieftain or noble family. It was probably used for storing livestock and crops, as well as for protection from raiders and invaders. The fort may have also served as a ceremonial or religious site. The fort is located near Cahersiveen, off the main Ring of Kerry route. It is surrounded by stunning views of the coast and countryside, including the islands of Beginish, Valentia,

15 min

he Valentia Island telegraph was a historic achievement that connected Europe and North America by a submarine electric cable in 1866. It was the first permanent trans-oceanic communication link that allowed messages to be sent instantly and accurately across the Atlantic. The project was initiated by Cyrus West Field, an American businessman who wanted to improve global communication and trade. He formed the Atlantic Telegraph Company and hired engineers and ships to lay the cable under the ocean. The first attempt in 1858 was successful, but the cable broke after a few weeks. Several more attempts failed until 1866, when the SS Great Eastern, the largest ship at the time, managed to lay a durable cable from Valentia Island in Ireland to Heart's Content in Newfoundland, Canada. The Valentia Island telegraph had a huge impact on the world, as it revolutionized the fields of politics, business, science, and culture. It enabled faster and more reliable exchange of information.

Admission not included45 min

Geokaun Mountain and Cliffs is a scenic attraction on Valentia Island in County Kerry, Ireland. It is the highest mountain on the island, and it offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Skellig Islands, the Dingle Peninsula, and the Kerry Mountains. You can walk or drive to the summit, where you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the landscape. You can also visit the Fogher Cliffs, which are sea cliffs of 600 feet on the northern face of the mountain. The mountain and the cliffs have a lot of history and heritage, as well as natural beauty. You can learn about the local wildlife, sea birds, Irish mythology, and the Skelligs from over 50 information panels along the way. The mountain and the cliffs are open daily from 5:00 am to 11:45 pm, and the admission fee is €6 per car. There are also toilets, a gift shop, and a cafe on site.

45 min

Portmagee is a small and charming village in County Kerry, Ireland. It is located on the Iveragh peninsula, south of Valentia Island, and it is part of the Ring of Kerry, a scenic coastal route. Portmagee is known for its colourful houses, its fishing heritage. Lunch Break (Optional)

Admission not included60 min

The Kerry Cliffs are a scenic spot near Portmagee village in County Kerry, Ireland, where you can admire the views of the Skellig Islands and Puffin Island from over 1,000 feet high. Here are some key points about the Kerry Cliffs: History and formation**: The Kerry Cliffs are over 400 million years old and were formed in a desert environment. You can see the layers of rock that have built up over time and learn about the history and heritage of the area. Admission and facilities**: The Kerry Cliffs have an admission fee of €5 per person, which includes parking and access to the viewing area. There are also toilets, a gift shop, and a cafe on site. The cliffs are open daily from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm (subject to weather conditions).

Pass by

Cúm an Easpaig (Cliff View) is a scenic spot near Portmagee village in County Kerry, Ireland. It is located on the north coast of the Iveragh Peninsula, opposite Valentia Island. Cúm an Easpaig is a peak that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Skellig Islands, the Dingle Peninsula, and the Kerry Mountains. You can walk or drive to the summit, where you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the landscape.

30 min

Skelligs Chocolate and Cafe is a place where you can enjoy delicious chocolate products and drinks, as well as learn about the history and process of chocolate making. It is located on the Skelligs Ring, a scenic coastal route that circles the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, Ireland. At Skelligs Chocolate and Cafe, you can see the open plan chocolate production facility, where you can watch the chocolate being made, taste the free samples, and ask the friendly staff about the ingredients and techniques. You can also buy chocolate boxes, bags, and dishes at the gift shop, or have a heavenly hot chocolate, tea, coffee, or homemade treats at the cafe. The cafe is open from Easter to September, and the admission to the factory is free.

30 min

Ballinskelligs Castle is a historic and scenic attraction in County Kerry, Ireland. It is located near the village of Ballinskelligs, on the Ring of Kerry, a scenic coastal route. The castle was built in the 16th century by the MacCarthy Mór family, who were powerful chieftains and kings of Munster. The castle was used to protect the bay from pirates and to charge a tariff on incoming trade ships. The castle is now a ruin, but it still preserves some interesting features, such as the octagonal tower, the battlements, and the vaulted rooms.

30 min

Waterville is a small coastal village on the scenic and famous Ring of Kerry in Southwest Ireland, offering world-class golf, food, culture and activities. Whether you enjoy fishing, golfing, hill walking, cycling, surfing or star gazing, Waterville has something for you. Waterville has a rich history and heritage, dating back to the ancient times. Waterville also played a role in transatlantic communication, as it was the site of a telegraph station that connected Europe and North America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. You can learn more about the history and legends of the telegraph cables and the people who worked there at the Tech Amergin Arts and Education Centre.

15 min

Com an Chiste Pass, a mountain pass on the Ring of Kerry, between Caherdaniel and Sneem. It offers spectacular views of the Kenmare Bay and the MacGillycuddy's Reeks mountains.

30 min

Sneem is a small and picturesque village in County Kerry, Ireland. It is located on the Iveragh Peninsula, which is part of the Ring of Kerry, a scenic coastal route. Sneem lies on the estuary of the River Sneem, which flows into Kenmare Bay. The name Sneem comes from the Irish word An tSnaidhm, which means "the knot". There are different explanations for this name, but one of them is that the village consists of two squares, North and South, that are connected by a bridge over the river, forming a knot-like shape. Sneem has a rich history and culture, and it has attracted many visitors over the years. One of them was the former French president Charles de Gaulle, who visited Sneem in 1969 and has a monument dedicated to him in the North Square. Sneem also offers many attractions and activities for tourists, such as hiking, cycling, fishing, golfing, and kayaking. You can explore the natural beauty of the mountains, lakes, forests, and bogs that surround the village.

Pass by

Moll’s Gap is a mountain pass on the N71 road from Kenmare to Killarney in County Kerry, Ireland. It is part of the Ring of Kerry tourist route, and it offers stunning views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountains, the lakes and the bogs of the Killarney National Park. Moll’s Gap is named after Moll Kissane, who ran a shebeen (an unlicensed pub) in the 1820s, while the road was under construction. She made Poitin, a hard liquor, for the workers who built the road. The shebeen is no longer there, but you can still see the remains of her cottage near the gap.

30 min

Ladies View is a scenic viewpoint on the Ring of Kerry tourist route, about 19 kilometres from Killarney along the N71 road to Kenmare, in the Killarney National Park in Ireland. ¹ It offers a stunning panorama of the lakes and mountains of the park, and it is one of the most photographed places in Ireland. The name Ladies View stems from the admiration of the view given by Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting during her visit to Ireland in 1861. ³ They were so impressed by the scenery that they stopped for a picnic there, and the spot has been named after them ever since.

30 min

Torc Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction in County Kerry, Ireland. It is located in the Killarney National Park, at the base of Torc Mountain. The waterfall is formed by the Owengarriff River, which flows from the Devil's Punchbowl, a lake on the top of the mountain. The waterfall is 20 metres (66 feet) high and 110 metres (360 feet) long, and it cascades over the rocks with a roaring sound. The name Torc comes from the Irish word for a wild boar, and the area is linked to some legends involving these animals. One legend says that a man who was cursed by the Devil to turn into a boar every night lived in a cave under the waterfall. Another legend says that the hero Fionn MacCumhaill killed a magical boar on Torc Mountain with his golden spear. You can visit Torc Waterfall by car, bike, or foot.

Pass by

Going back to pick up location

Highlights

Customisable itinerary tailored to your interests and pace
Bottled water
Comfortable, air‑conditioned vehicle for your group only
Flexible schedule with time for walks, food stops, and exploration
Private driver‑guide with over 20 years of local experience

What's included

Included
Customisable itinerary tailored to your interests and pace
Bottled water
Comfortable, air‑conditioned vehicle for your group only
Flexible schedule with time for walks, food stops, and exploration
Private driver‑guide with over 20 years of local experience
Not included
Bog Village
Geokaun Mountain and Cliffs
Derrynne House
Kerry Cliffs

Pickup Locations & Times

We pick up from any location around Killarney, and Kenmare Hotel Pick-Up Reconfirmation Required. Please confirm no later than 24 in advance

Traveller Ratings

5.0
18 reviews
5
18
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
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Reviews(18)

Z
Z9866NNsaras
June 24, 2026
Great day tour

It was a full and wonderful day with Kris. Everything was clear, comfortable, and flexible to our interests. A great way to see the Ring of Kerry for us non-drivers!

Operator response

Thank you so much for your lovely review. I’m delighted to hear you had such a full and enjoyable day. Keeping everything clear, comfortable, and flexible to your interests is exactly what I aim for, and it’s great to know it made your Ring of Kerry experience special. It was a pleasure having you on tour, and I’m glad the private option made things easy for you as non‑drivers. Hope to welcome you back to Kerry again in the future! Warm Regards Kris

C
Cpgannon7
June 11, 2026
Fantastic Ring of Kerry/Skellig Ring tour

Kris was a wonderful guide. He asked us what we liked and tailored our trip based on that. He is a fun guy and had a lot of great information on the history and lore of the area we visited. He was easy to communicate with and we would gladly book another tour with him next time we return to Ireland. I highly recommend taking a tour, it is much better than trying to drive yourself. He knows the places to go and when to go there.

Operator response

Dear Colleen Thank you so much for this wonderful review. It was a real pleasure spending the day with you, and I’m delighted to hear the tailored itinerary and local stories added to your experience. Kerry has so much history and hidden magic, and it’s always a joy to share it with guests who are curious and up for a bit of fun along the way. I’m really glad the communication felt easy and the timing worked well — knowing when and where to go does make the day far more relaxing than trying to navigate it all yourself. I’d be absolutely delighted to welcome you back on another adventure the next time you’re in Ireland. Thanks again for the kind words and the recommendation. Safe travels until we meet again. Warm Regards Kris

Z
Zach_C
August 14, 2025
Booking with Kris takes...

Booking with Kris takes the stress out of driving unfamiliar roads that are quite tricky, and in my opinion, a much better experience than a coach bus which will give you no flexibility with your trip. We booked two separate tours with Kris (Dingle Peninsula and Ring of Kerry) both of which were fantastic. Kris picked us up and dropped us off directly at our hotels and we got to see a few places off the beaten track and learn a lot about the history of the area. Will definitely book with Kris next time we are here.

Operator response

Dear Zach Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for choosing to tour both the Dingle Peninsula and the Ring of Kerry with me. I’m delighted to hear you enjoyed the flexibility, comfort, and the chance to explore some of those hidden gems off the beaten track. It’s always a pleasure to share the history and beauty of these regions with guests who are as enthusiastic and curious as you. I truly appreciate your kind words and your trust in me to make your trip memorable. It would be an absolute joy to welcome you back for another adventure whenever you return to Ireland. Safe travels until then, Kris

A
andrzejwD9935WA
August 10, 2025
Ring of Kerry & Skellig Ring – A Luxury Journey Through Ireland’s Beauty

Our trip around the Ring of Kerry and the Skellig Ring was absolutely unforgettable. The breathtaking scenery — from rolling mountains and golden beaches to dramatic cliffs and charming villages — was even more enjoyable thanks to our professional and friendly driver Kris. Traveling in a comfortable, luxurious car made the journey relaxing, and we could simply sit back and take in the views. The driver shared many fascinating stories and facts about the history, culture, and hidden gems of the area, which made the experience even richer. A perfect blend of comfort, beauty, and local insight.

Operator response

Dear andrzejwD9935WA, Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful words! I'm absolutely delighted to hear that your journey around the Ring of Kerry and the Skellig Ring was such a memorable experience. It was a pleasure to share the stunning landscapes, rich history, and hidden gems of this beautiful region with you. I'm especially glad the comfort of the car and the stories along the way added to your enjoyment — creating a relaxing and enriching adventure is exactly what I aim for. Your appreciation means a lot, and I hope our paths cross again for another unforgettable tour. Warmest regards, Kris

M
Marcin B
August 10, 2025
Unforgettable Tour with a Fantastic Driver! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

We had the absolute pleasure of spending a day touring with an exceptionally friendly and professional driver Kris. From the very first moment, it was clear that he knew the area like the back of his hand – sharing fascinating stories and interesting facts about the local culture, nature, and history in a warm and engaging way. The journey was incredibly comfortable – we traveled in a spacious vehicle with large, airline-style seats, which allowed us to fully relax and enjoy the stunning scenery. Kris paid attention to every detail of the route, stopping at perfect spots for photos and always happy to answer our questions.

Operator response

Dear Marcin, Thank you so much for your generous and thoughtful review! It was an absolute pleasure to guide you through the Ring of Kerry and Skellig Ring. I’m thrilled to hear that the stories, scenery, and comfort of the journey made your day so enjoyable. I always aim to create a relaxed and enriching experience, and I’m glad the spacious vehicle and photo stops helped you soak in the beauty of the region. Your kind words mean a great deal, and I hope to welcome you back for another adventure in Ireland someday! Warm regards, Kris

A
April_V
August 4, 2025
Great full day Ring of Kerry Experience

What a wonderful experience! He was so knowledgeable and went out of his way to make sure we didn't miss anything! Definitely a highlight of our whole trip!

Operator response

Dear April, Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm absolutely thrilled to hear that the tour was a highlight of your trip. It was a real pleasure sharing the beauty and stories of the Ring of Kerry and Skellig Ring with you. I always aim to make each experience as enriching and memorable as possible, so knowing you felt well taken care of means the world to me. Wishing you many more wonderful adventures and I’d be delighted to welcome you back to Kerry anytime! Warm regards, Kris

F
F6611YIryanb
July 31, 2025
Amazing views, great tour

Kris is so knowledgeable. It’s so hard to appreciate everything you see without knowing the extensive history behind it. His vehicle was able to take us places tour buses cannot, and it was a full day of some of the most amazing views by views in the entire world. I wouldn’t do it any other way.

Operator response

Dear F6611YIryanb, Thank you so much for your glowing review! I’m delighted to hear that the historical context helped bring the stunning landscapes to life for you. It was a pleasure navigating the smaller roads and hidden nooks that larger tour buses simply can’t reach. I’m thrilled those off-the-beaten-path views ranked among the most unforgettable you’ve ever seen. Knowing you wouldn’t choose any other way to experience the Ring of Kerry makes my day. I hope to welcome you back soon for more history, adventure, and breathtaking scenery! Safe travels, Kris M Tours

J
JL0025
July 11, 2025
You can’t go wrong with Kris as your tour guide!

We had a fabulous day with Kris and we highly recommend any tour led by him! He was informative, helpful, funny and had all sorts of extra insights on Ireland. We had a fantastic lunch at this great Seafood restaurant also that he recommended on the tour. We couldn’t have planned a better day. Thanks Kris! Hope to see you next time for another tour!

Operator response

Dear JL0025 Thank you so much for your kind words and generous review! It was truly a pleasure spending the day with you, and I’m delighted to hear that the tour—and that delicious seafood lunch—hit the spot! Sharing Ireland’s rich stories, scenery, and hidden gems is always a joy, especially with guests as engaged and enthusiastic as you. I’m already looking forward to our next adventure together—there’s always more magic waiting to be discovered on the Emerald Isle. Until then, take care and keep the memories close! Warmest wishes, Kris

G
Grace1232014
June 27, 2025
First time at the Ring of Kerry

The places and views were amazing and we could take time to enjoy those we liked the most. Kris is a very knowledgeable guide.

Operator response

Dear Grace, Thank you so much for your lovely review! I'm delighted you enjoyed the breathtaking views and that we could take the time to explore the places that resonated with you most. That’s one of the joys of a private tour—being able to travel at your own pace and really soak in the magic of the Ring of Kerry and Skellig Ring. It was truly a pleasure sharing some of the stories and hidden gems of this stunning region with you. I’m thrilled you found the experience memorable and insightful! Wishing you many more adventures ahead—should your travels bring you back to Ireland, I’d be honoured to show you more. Warmest regards, Kris

3
337StevenM
May 10, 2025
Ring of Kerry Tour

Kris was great! Really enjoyed the tour. The sheepdog demonstration was great. Views from the cliffs were amazing! Highly recommend this tour

Operator response

Dear Steven M Thank you sincerely for your thoughtful review. I am delighted that the service provided by Kris M Tours has met your expectations. I hope to have the opportunity to show you more of the beautiful places in Kerry in the near future. Kind regards, Kris

You might also like...