NO 1 Ring of Kerry Tour inc Killarney Lakes & National Park

Rating: 4.5/5 (590 reviews)

Location: Killarney, Ireland

Price: $45.28 per person

Supplier: Deros Coach Tours

Duration: Approximately 6 hours

Features: Mobile ticket, guided tour

What You’ll Love About This Tour

This full-day adventure whisks you through some of Ireland’s most breathtaking scenery, from rugged mountains to charming villages. With a knowledgeable guide at the wheel, you’ll get a good mix of sightseeing, local stories, and authentic stops, all for an accessible price. It’s a balanced experience designed to give you a taste of the iconic Kerry landscape without the hassle of driving yourself.

One standout feature reported by many past travelers is the expert guiding — guides like Michael and Batt are praised for their engaging insights and humorous storytelling, making the journey both informative and fun. Plus, the variety of stops, including the Lakes of Killarney, Ladies View, and quaint villages like Sneem, ensures you’ll get plenty of photo-worthy moments.

However, some reviews highlight a potential downside: the limited time at each stop can sometimes feel rushed, especially at spots like Sneem or during the lunch break. It’s worth considering if you prefer more time to explore each location thoroughly or if you like a more relaxed pace.

This tour suits travelers who want to see the highlights of the Ring of Kerry comfortably, with a good balance of scenery, history, and local charm—perfect for those on a budget or with limited time.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-reviewed for its value, with most travelers feeling the price offers a lot for what you get.
• Expert guides like Michael and Batt make the experience engaging and informative.
• Multiple scenic stops including Ladies View, Moll’s Gap, and the Lakes of Killarney ensure stunning photo opportunities.
• Authentic Irish villages like Sneem and Cahersiveen provide a taste of local life and history.
• Limited free time at some locations may feel rushed but allows for quick sightseeing and photos.
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles makes the long drive more pleasant.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at 10:15 am from 22 Main Street in Killarney. You’re asked to check in about thirty minutes early — a good idea, considering the tour’s popularity and the need to settle into the coach. The tour lasts roughly six hours, which might sound long, but with frequent stops and beautiful vistas, the time flies.

The vehicle is air-conditioned, a welcome feature after Irish mornings or afternoons, and the group size is capped at 50, ensuring that conversations remain lively and personal. While hotel pickup isn’t included, the centrally located meeting point makes it easy to start your day.

The Stops: A Closer Look

Kerry Bog Village Museum — a quick, outdoor step back in time where you can experience a late 19th-century Irish rural village. Though the admission isn’t included, it’s worth the 20-minute visit to see authentic cottages, hear sound effects, and get a glimpse of rural life during the famine years. It’s especially good for families or history buffs.

Cahersiveen and Daniel O’Connell Sites — passing through this picturesque town, you’ll spot the Daniel O’Connell Memorial Church, notable for its unique dedication to a layperson, with granite sourced from Northern Ireland and marble from Rome. The story of O’Connell, the Irish “Liberator,” adds a layer of cultural depth to your journey.

Caherdaniel and Sneem — two charming villages that showcase Ireland’s color and character. Sneem, in particular, gets high praise for its vibrant houses and friendly atmosphere. One reviewer loved it for its visual appeal, noting it’s a perfect spot for an ice cream or a quick coffee break. The village is situated along the Wild Atlantic Way and is renowned for its natural beauty and welcoming vibe.

Moll’s Gap and Ladies View — two of the most iconic scenic spots. Moll’s Gap, with views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, offers a dramatic mountain panorama, named after Moll Kissane, a legendary local figure. Ladies View, named after Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting, provides sweeping views across the lakes and mountains, often described as a must-see snapshot of Killarney’s landscape. Multiple reviews highlight how impressive these views are, even on cloudy days.

Killarney National Park — the original Irish national park, established in 1932, covers 26,000 acres of rugged terrain, including the highest mountain in Ireland, Carrauntoohill. Here, you’ll travel through ancient oak woods and see the Lakes of Killarney, which are often praised for their tranquility and stunning reflections. Past visitors mention how this is a highlight, especially if you’re a nature lover.

Kells Sheepdogs Demonstration — an unexpected delight for many. The sheepdog show is an engaging, hands-on experience where local farmer Tom demonstrates his skills. The dogs respond to whistled commands, sheep are gathered efficiently, and the whole scene is both amusing and impressive. Visitors find this stop not only entertaining but also insightful into traditional Irish farming practices.

The Atmosphere and Guides

Reviewers consistently mention the guides’ professionalism, humor, and deep knowledge. Michael, Dennis, and Batt are praised for their storytelling, which adds personality and local flavor to the trip. One reviewer noted that Michael’s commentary made the journey more engaging, and another appreciated Batt’s mix of information and humor.

Some travelers mention that the size of the coach varies, which can affect comfort, especially during longer stretches. However, with most reviews describing the coach as comfortable and well-maintained, that’s generally a minor concern.

Food, Timing, and Overall Value

Lunch isn’t included, but one reviewer pointed out that the late lunch around 2 pm is on the heavy side, making it a good idea to bring snacks or plan for a light breakfast if you’re not keen on a big meal midday. The tour provides enough stops to stretch your legs and take photos, making the long drive more bearable.

Many travelers feel the tour offers excellent value for the price — especially considering the guide’s insights, scenic stops, and the variety of villages and viewpoints covered. For just over $45, you’re getting a well-rounded glimpse of Kerry’s best, with enough flexibility to customize your experience if you wish.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates stunning landscapes and authentic Irish villages without wanting the hassle of driving, this tour hits the right notes. It’s ideal for budget-conscious travelers, first-timers to Kerry, or those with limited time who still want a rundown of the region’s highlights.

For travelers who prefer more time at each location or detailed historical narratives, this might feel a bit rushed — but that’s often the tradeoff on a day trip. It’s a good choice if you want a guided, comfortable, and scenic overview of the Ring of Kerry.

The Sum Up

This Ring of Kerry tour from Killarney offers a well-balanced mix of scenic vistas, charming villages, and cultural insights, all at a price that won’t break the bank. The guides’ knowledge and humor elevate the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable. The stops at Ladies View, Moll’s Gap, and the Lakes of Killarney are particularly memorable, delivering postcard-perfect moments.

Though the schedule can feel a little tight at times, the overall experience is highly praised for its value and authenticity. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights without the stress of planning or driving themselves. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply want to soak in the Irish landscape, this tour offers a solid, enjoyable way to do it.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at 22 Main Street in Killarney. You’ll need to make your way to the meeting point.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, including multiple stops and sightseeing.

What’s the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 50 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable group.

Are food and drinks included?
Lunch isn’t included, but there are stops for ice cream, coffee, and snacks. No hot drinks or food are allowed on the coach for safety reasons.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially with engaging stops like the sheepdog demonstration and scenic viewpoints.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

In essence, this tour is a fantastic, budget-friendly way to soak in Ireland’s iconic scenery and learn a bit about the local culture. It’s best suited for those who want a full, scenic overview without the hassle of self-driving — making it a reliable choice for most visitors to Killarney.