7 Must-See Attractions in Kerry, Ireland

Ireland has many major attractions being a country rich in history and culture, with Kerry being no exception to this. Home to some of Ireland’s biggest tourist attractions, stunning beaches and incredible mountain views, it isn't hard to see why Kerry has become one of Ireland's most visited counties.

Kerry won’t leave you short of things to do this summer with several activities and attractions that should be on your ‘must-see’ list for your trip. This article will help you to create a jam-packed itinerary with some of the best and most highly recommended attractions to sight-see when visiting this summer.

1. Muckross House and Farms

Muckross House and Gardens features a Victorian Mansion that dates back to the 18th Century. Accompanied by gardens developed for Royal Visits and the backdrop of the beautiful and renowned Killarney National Park, you will surely see some of Kerry's most incredible scenery combined with its rich historic past.

Muckross Farms as an attraction aims to provide tourists with an in-depth understanding of 1930s Ireland by replicating traditional cottages and homesteads that can be visited via a walking tour, allowing you to visit traditional Irish countryside cottages whilst having workers depict some of the major roles of an Irish housewife from this period. 

In your walk through the farms, you can also take a visit to a schoolhouse built in 1910 which will be sure to take you back in time and understand the daily routine of young Irish school children and take a small step into their past.

2. Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park is a great location to visit on your trip to Kerry for its vast variety of activities to take part in. 

Not only does it form part of the Muckross House and Farms, making those locations easily accessible, but it also contains numerous walking and hiking trails, one of which includes a forest walk up to Torc Waterfall, a breathtaking waterfall in the woods of Killarney National Park.

The National Park is not short on Irish heritage and history, giving you the chance to visit Ross Castle, a ruin built in the 15th century and initially owned by the Gaelic Irish until the 17th and 18th Century.

Not forgetting all of the water-lovers, you can arrange a boat trip out onto the lakes or arrange to obtain a permit so you can take your canoe or kayak to spend time on the water while surrounded by the incredible nature showcased in Killarney National Park.

3. Gap of Dunloe

With Kerry being famous for its incredible views, both coastal and mountain, the Gap of Dunloe has become a massively popular site to see. 

Located between the MacGillycuddy Reeks and Purple Mountain, this is an attraction that can be walked or cycled, allowing tourists to walk amongst some of Ireland’s most incredible views. Boat trips and jaunting carts can also be arranged for your trip to the Gap of Dunloe, making it possible to experience this incredible location in more ways than one!

The location is filled with numerous lakes formed as a result of glacial features over 25,000 years ago in addition to many ruins to sight-see along your walking route. 

This spot will leave you stuck for words given its superb natural beauty!

4. Derrynane

Derrynane is another one of Kerry’s most popular locations to visit on a trip to Kerry and like many spots in the county, it is filled with more elements of Irish history, allowing you to learn wherever you are! 

If you fancy a beach day on your trip to Kerry, Derrynane is a great location to visit for just that. Take a stroll along the beach to relax and unwind or if you're feeling brave enough, take a dip in the sea.

When you’re ready to head on your next adventure you can visit Derrynane House, located just behind the beach. Here you can tour the homestead of famous Irish Politician, Daniel O’Connell and discover his incredibly fascinating experience in Irish politics during the 19th century. 

If you are looking for a great day trip on your holiday to Kerry, definitely consider Derrynane.

5. Dingle

Dingle is one of the most well-known locations in Kerry by tourists internationally and has a fantastic reputation as a place to see when in Kerry. By taking a look at the long list of activities to do and sites to see, it is clear to see why.

If you are a fan of wonderful views, you can take a scenic drive along Slea Head or Conor Pass for some of the most authentic and breathtaking views Ireland has to offer.

Dingle is also home to Inch beach, a three-mile-long beach suited for a variety of activities such as swimming, surfing or taking a long walk. Whatever you decide, you are sure to have a fantastic time.

Take a trip to Murphy’s ice cream shop in the town to have a taste of some of the best ice cream there is. It is handmade in Dingle making it the freshest and most rustic ice cream you could ever eat and with dreamy flavours ranging from mango sorbet to chocolate whiskey, be sure to stop by to taste the ice cream of dreams.

One of the most world-renowned activities to take part in is the Dingle Dolphin Tour around the harbour. Hop on a boat tour and learn about local history whilst in the company of coastal views. And if you’re lucky enough, you may even spot a dolphin or two on your trip. 

6. Carrauntoohil 

With many people seeking out activity and exercise on their holidays, we had to include Ireland's highest mountain range Carrauntoohil as an attraction to see. 

For the explorers, hikers and adventurers, place this attraction at the top of your to-do list and take a challenging but rewarding hike to the top of this beautiful mountain range. With multiple routes including ‘The Devils Ladder’, ‘The Brother O’Shea’s Gully Route’ and ‘The Caher Route’, you can choose what will be your greatest adventure yet!

7. Skellig Islands

Of course, it is nearly impossible to mention famous attractions to see in Kerry without talking about the famous Skellig Islands - our namesake!

Acting as a place of freedom from the Penal Laws being implemented in mainland Ireland in 600 AD, the Skellig Islands became a safe place for many Catholics at this time. Today, the islands are one of the biggest tourist attractions in Kerry and the country of Ireland. 

Many people visit Skellig to see some of the wildlife, historical sites and ruins whilst others have been drawn to the area after the blockbuster film franchise Star Wars filmed several scenes there for both Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens and Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi. 

Also, if you do decide to visit the Skellig Islands, you're sure to come across the famous and beautiful Puffin bird species!

Whatever the reason for visiting the island, we certainly agree that this one is a top-tier attraction this summer!