Cycling in Kerry

Cycling opportunities abound in this part of Kerry…

We can arrange bike hire for you directly from Carrig, so from our doorstep you can explore all around Caragh Lake on bikes. Why not try your hand at cycling the Ring of Kerry for charity every July? Just on of the many great cycling opportunities in the area!


The Ring of Kerry

‘The Ring’ heads in an anti-clockwise direction, Killorglin being the closest town to Carrig Country House.

From here, the route travels west toward the village of Glenbeigh. This village comes to life in the summer as it has been luring visitors since the 1850’s. Take time to travel a short distance off the route to visit the 8km long Rossbeigh beach, stretching out into Dingle Bay. An ideal spot to stretch the legs before you tackle the rest of the route.

Onwards along some magnificent mountain and coastal scenery, especially at Mountain Stage where the ocean view stretches out across to Corca Dhuibhne, The Dingle Peninsula.

Our next stop is the market town of Cahersiveen. Described by poet Sigerson Clifford as “The town that climbs the mountain and looks upon the sea”. The town has a long and interesting history, especially the Old Royal Irish Constabulary Barracks. Built in 1875, it is now an Interpretive Centre and will provide you with a rich insight into the history and traditions of the region. Close to the town, other sites slightly off the main route are the 15th Century Ballycarbery Castle and the iron age Leacanabuaile fort and Cahergal fort.

Just outside of Cahersiveen is the Renard-Valentia Island ferry, a great time saver to get onto the beautiful island of Valentia, and directly to the village of Knightstown. This off-shoot of the Ring of Kerry is well worth the visit, and you won’t be disappointed!

If you prefer the longer route, cycling further along the main Ring of Kerry from Cahersiveen, a right turn will take to in the direction of Portmagee village, from where a bridge will take you across to the Island. Portmagee is a charming little fishing village and departure point for many boat trips to the Skellig Islands.

Back to Valentia Island, where and a wealth of sightseeing and history await. Visit the following:

  • Cromwell Point lighthouse
  • The footprints laid down between 350 and 370 million years ago by the Tetrapod
  • The Valentia slate quarry which provided slate for the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Paris Opera House, to mention a few
  • The transatlantic cable station, where the first messages between Europe and North America were transmitted
  • Cycle up to Geokaun Point for the finest 360 degree view

Next stop on the Ring of Kerry is Waterville, famously visited by Charlie Chaplin, the town looks out onto Ballinskelligs Bay and is backed by the beautiful Lough Currane, a haven for anglers.

Leaving Waterville, cycle up and over Coomakista Pass, another stop along with way with stunning coastal views. Next, its downhill to the little village of Caherdaniel, close to the former residence of the ‘Liberator’, Daniel O’Connell. Derrynane House is situated on the shores of Derrynane Bay and is well worth a visit. Derrynane Beach, a short stroll from Derrynane House is a spectacular little beach, located alongside Abbey Island, home to 6th century ruins and accessible on foot from the beach.

From here its onto Sneem, a picturesque little village which won Ireland’s National Tidy Towns Award in 1987 and the National Landscape Award in 1997. Sneem is home to a sculpture park featuring works by a variety of artists.

Continuing from Sneem, pass by Parknasilla, over Blackwater Bridge, through Templenoe and into the heritage town of Kenmare. Located at the head of Kenmare Bay the town dates back to 1678 and is known for its gourmet food and cosy bars. Twice winner of the National Tidy Towns Award in 2000 and 2008, the town’s original Irish name was ‘Neidín’ meaning ‘little nest’, due to its location nestled among the surrounding mountains and Kenmare Bay.

10km outside of Kenmare, ascend to Molls Gap with its view down into the Black Valley and the 25,000 acre Killarney National Park. Next comes a stunning downhill route passing the famous viewing point ‘Ladies View’, Derrycunnihy Church and past Killarney’s Upper and Middle Lakes before coming to Muckross, home of the famous Muckross House, Gardens and Traditional Farms.

From Killarney, the route travels 22km to Killorglin with views of the McGillycuddy Reeks all along the route.

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