The best cycling routes in Kerry

Kerry offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 200 options recorded on komoot. These routes cater to different skill levels, from easy paths to challenging mountain climbs, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.

Yes, Kerry has numerous routes perfect for beginners and families. There are 47 easy routes and 97 moderate routes available. Killarney National Park, for instance, offers 27km of cycle paths largely away from motor traffic, winding through scenic attractions. A great moderate option is the Muckross House, Ross Castle & Lough Leane loop — Killarney National Park, which is 30.4 km long.

Kerry is renowned for its stunning circular routes. The Slea Head loop from Dingle offers panoramic ocean vistas and historical sites along the Dingle Peninsula. Another challenging but rewarding option is the Moll's Gap, Lough Leane & the Gap of Dunloe loop from Killarney - Killarney National Park, featuring the world-famous Gap of Dunloe.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Kerry offers 69 difficult routes. The Healy Pass and Caha Pass loop from Kenmare is a demanding 82.7 km route with significant elevation gain. Another excellent option is The Ring of the Reeks, an 85.7 km route that circles Ireland's highest mountains.

Absolutely! Many routes in Kerry pass by beautiful natural water features. Killarney National Park is home to serene lakes like Lough Leane and the famous Torc Waterfall. You can explore highlights such as Muckross Lake or the Meeting of the Waters and Old Stone Bridge. For a dramatic waterfall, consider visiting Gleninchaquin Waterfall.

Kerry's routes are rich with historical and natural landmarks. You can cycle past Ross Castle, Muckross House & Gardens, and ancient woodlands. The Dingle Peninsula features fascinating historical sites, while Valentia Island offers unique 365-million-year-old tetrapod footprints. Mountain passes like Caha Pass and Healy Pass also offer breathtaking views.

The best time for touring cycling in Kerry is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is milder, with longer daylight hours and less rainfall, making for more enjoyable rides. However, Kerry's landscapes are beautiful year-round, and off-season cycling can offer a quieter experience.

Many routes in Kerry boast spectacular coastal views and lead through vibrant towns. The Dingle Peninsula and the Ring of Kerry are prime examples, offering dramatic Atlantic vistas and passing through charming villages like Dingle, Kenmare, and Sneem, where you can experience local culture and hospitality. The Valentia Island loop from Caherciveen also provides stunning coastal scenery.

The touring cycling experience in Kerry is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 700 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines and dramatic mountain passes to serene lakes and ancient woodlands. The variety of routes, catering to all skill levels, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, Kerry is developing a network of traffic-free greenways, which are ideal for a relaxed touring cycling experience. These repurpose historic railway corridors, such as the Tralee to Fenit Greenway and parts of the Kingdom of Kerry Greenways, offering safe and scenic routes away from motor traffic.

While many routes are suitable for day trips, Kerry's extensive network allows for longer touring adventures. Routes like the Gap of Dunloe & Ballaghbeama Gap loop from Killorglin (81 km) or the Ballaghisheen, Rossbeigh Beach & Lough Caragh loop from Cahersiveen (81.5 km) can be combined or form part of a multi-day itinerary, especially when exploring iconic areas like the Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula over several days.

Yes, Kerry offers many routes that utilize quieter country roads, especially away from the main tourist arteries. While iconic routes like parts of the Ring of Kerry can be busy, significant sections and alternative routes, such as the Ring of the Reeks, largely use rural roads. Greenways also provide completely traffic-free cycling experiences.