Ring of Kerry and Dingle by Campervan
Quick summary: The Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula are Ireland’s classic scenic drives and favorites for campervan travel. The Ring of Kerry is a loop of around 180 km from Killarney around the Iveragh Peninsula, with mountains, lakes and Atlantic views. Dingle offers the Slea Head Drive and a lively harbor town. Both have narrow sections and tour coach traffic, so plan an unhurried day for each in your campervan or motorhome.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| From Dublin | Killarney is around 300 km away |
| Ring of Kerry | Around 180 km loop from Killarney |
| Dingle | Slea Head Drive and harbor town |
| Killarney National Park | Lakes, Muckross House, Torc Waterfall |
| Conor Pass | Not suitable for large vehicles |
| Tours | Ring of Kerry tours |
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Which direction should you drive the Ring of Kerry?
Tour coaches generally drive the loop counterclockwise from Killarney. Many campervan drivers follow the same direction so they don’t meet coaches head on at tight bends. Check local guidance before you set out.
What are the highlights of the Ring of Kerry?
| Stop | Why go |
|---|---|
| Killarney National Park | Lakes, Muckross House, Torc Waterfall |
| Kenmare | Colorful town with cafes |
| Sneem and Waterville | Villages on the coast |
| Skellig Ring | Detour with sea views (narrow) |
| Ladies View | Lookout over the lakes |
How should an RV tackle the Dingle Peninsula?
Drive the Slea Head loop clockwise, as signs advise, and expect narrow sections with walls and cliffs. Avoid the Conor Pass in a large vehicle; it has restrictions for larger vehicles, and the road via Annascaul is the easier option.
Where can you stay in Kerry?
At campsites near Killarney, along the Ring of Kerry and around Dingle. Book ahead in summer. See campsites and overnight parking.
How many days does Kerry need?
At least two, one for each peninsula, with a third for Killarney National Park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Around 180 km, which takes a full day with stops.
Many follow the counterclockwise direction used by tour coaches.
Not in a large vehicle. Use the road via Annascaul instead.
Yes, with campsites and scenic drives, though roads are narrow in places.