Beyond archaic fortresses and battle-hardened castles, there is a strong legacy of natural wonders hiding beneath the tailcoat of Ireland. History buffs and adventurers alike can get a whiff of the country’s rich past in County Kerry. A tourist hotspot, the region has been home to thousands of visitors each year since the 18^th century. It serves as the perfect vacation spot – for romantic getaways, family vacations,or just a natural retreat – catering to all budgets and requirements.

Visitors popularly tour the famous Ring of Kerry on vehicles under the supervision of expert guides. But for the more adventure-hearted folks, travelling on foot might be the best way to uncover the true beauty of the place.

For hikers and people who love walking, the Kerry Way is the impeccable trail route that captures the pristine beauty of Ireland. It is a waymarked walking trail that encircles the famed Ring of Kerry. The routes are located around the Iveragh Peninsula, a beautiful marvel jutting out into the Atlantic.

Away from the tall mountains of the country, the walking routes follow the lower-level inland and coastal areas. The Kerry Way is approximately 215 kilometres long (135 miles), making it a several-day walk. Although a self-guided tour is possible, it is recommended that tourists get an ordinance map to get a detailed overview of the areas that they can explore.

To prepare yourself for the journey, understand that the paths circling the route are mostly unsurfaced, with little to no vehicular traffic. The walk will take you through rich forests, national parks, and even some private farmlands. It is important for travellers to respect the property of landowners and farmers on their way across. To surmise, walking across the landscape will be a cool and pleasant experience. The routes will be generally higher than the main roads (undertaken by on-car travellers), with the highest point being 385 meters above.

Dispersed along the trail are some famous hotspots that make the Ring of Kerry experience a memorable one. Perhaps the most notable of them is located at the Gap of Dunloe. It is a picturesque mountain pass near Killarney, stretching between MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and Purple Mountain. The stunning, natural gap was formed by glacial movement and furnishes dramatic scenery, rich with winding roads, rugged landscapes,and a chain of lakes connected by the River Loe.

Although the Kerry Way is a circular, looped track, County Kerry is also a great place to stay in one spot and explore from there. A good base could be near the lively town of Killarney, serving as a warm and welcoming resting spot for travellers and tourists since the 1700s. Killarney has a lot of things to do and is set up well for visitors, filled with plenty of activities, places to stay, and things to see.

Walkers, climbers, wildlife lovers, and riders will find paradise in southwest Ireland’s stunning Kerry region. Here are some must-see attractions:

• The Lakes of Killarney: These are some of Ireland’s famous gems. They are famous for their yew, oak woodlands, and Ireland’s only native red deer herd.
  
• Lough Léin: Known as the "Lake of Learning," it hosts Inisfallen Island, where St. Finian’s monks wrote Ireland’s early history.
• Bog Village: A glimpse into rural life in Ireland before the Great Famine, showcasing traditional farming practices.
• Torc Mountain: Offers breathtaking views of the Black Valley and a magical waterfall cascading through wooded slopes

Every walk deserves a break. In Kerry, there’s no better spot to take a breather than Muckross House and Gardens. This renowned Victorian mansion is one of Ireland’s top stately homes. Inside, it’s been restored to showcase the contrasting lives of the gentry and their servants. The gardens thrive in the mild Atlantic climate, featuring rare and exotic plants, while part of the grounds recreate traditional Irish farm life from the 1920s and 30s.

Ross Castle, perched on an island by the Lower Lake, harks back to more troubled times. It has protected Donoghue clan since the 15^th century. Legend has it that one still slumbers beneath the lake. A walking trail winds around the island, offering glimpses of its 9,000-year history and thriving wildlife.

Kerry offers much more for walkers—friendly pubs, and traditional music—and is a place you’ll want to return to time and time again.