Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Kerry, Ireland's jewel, with our meticulously planned 5-day motorhome itinerary.
This adventure is designed for travelers seeking a blend of serene landscapes, rich history, and a taste of Irish culture, all from the comfort of a modern, well-equipped motorhome.
From the moment you pick up your vehicle in Newcastle West, you are not just renting a motorhome; you are unlocking the door to an experience that promises both freedom and comfort all in one. Imagine waking up to the symphony of nature in Killarney National Park, dining under the stars in quaint Irish villages, and exploring hidden beaches along the Wild Atlantic Way. Every twist and turn on this journey offers a new opportunity to connect with the enchanting Irish countryside, of course, its welcoming people, and the timeless traditions that make Ireland a treasured destination worldwide.
Let's begin this magical tour through Kerry, where every day is a new chapter in your Irish tale.
Day 1:
Begin at Newcastle West, where your motorhome adventure starts.
Journey to Killarney National Park, a 75-minute drive into a world of majestic mountains and serene lakes.
Hike through the park, where nature's grandeur unfolds in every step.
Visit the historic Muckross House and Gardens, a 19th-century estate embodying elegance and history.
Choose from numerous trails, for an easy yet rewarding hike, the Torc Waterfall loop is a must-do, offering spectacular views.
As evening approaches, retreat to the charming town of Killarney, known for its vibrant traditional Irish music and culinary scene.
Food suggestions: The Laurels Pub & Restaurant, great Irish traditional food.
Campsite suggestion: Fossa Caravan and Camping Park, a cozy retreat.
Day 2:
Drive out from Killarney on the N70 and on your way, stop at Ladies View for unbeatable scenery. Park the van and relax with a picnic overlooking panoramic views of the Killarney Valley.
Make your way to beautiful Kenmare and book a place on a Kenmare Foodie Tour where you get a delightful insight into Kerry’s talented food producers.
Visit the lovely village of Sneem and discover the Kerry Geopark in this pretty Irish village and learn about Ireland’s unique geology and ancient culture. Visit the sensory garden and take a stroll down the riverside wildlife trail.
Continue to travel southwest to the village of Caherdaniel and head along the coast until you reach Derrynane House. Tour the house and visit the rooms that are laid out as if they were still in 19th century Ireland and learn about ‘The Liberator’s’ life as a lawyer and politician.
Drive or walk from Derrynane House to Derrynane Beach, one of the best beaches in the country. It’s sandy and perfect for a splash in the ocean or a spot of windsurfing.
Campsite Suggestion: - Glenbeg Caravan and Camping Park. - Wave Crest Caravan Park
Day 3:
Travel further west along the coast and discover a village called Ballinskelligs. This is one of the predominantly Irish-speaking areas of Ireland. There is lots to discover here between its beautiful beaches and historical McCarthy Tower known locally as Ballinskelligs Castle.
Warm up after a walk on the beach with a cup of hot chocolate at, Cable O'Leary's in Ballinskelligs.
Spend the night in Portmagee, an idyllic village by the sea and in view of nearby Valentia Island.
If you have time, we recommend you take a detour and pre-book a boat trip out to the UNESCO World Heritage site Sceilg Mhichíl (Skellig Michael) off the coast of County Kerry. Tours to the island take an hour from Portmagee Marina and are a great way to explore this unique craggy outpost.
Campsite suggestion: Mannix Point Camping and Caravan Park
Day 4:
Accessible by bridge or by ferry, take a trip out to Valentia Island and explore the Bray Head Loop Walk, a spectacular coastal trail.
From there, head north-east to Valentia Island Lighthouse at Cromwell Point and take a tour of this intriguing place. To head onwards to Cahersiveen, take the ferry from Knightstown on Valentia Island and cross over the water to the mainland. Or you can head back to Portmagee and take the R565 onto the N70.
Arriving in Cahersiveen, look up at the outstanding views of Bentee Mountain and Valentia Harbour. Relax by the marina or book in with Cahersiveen Walking Tours.
Between Glenbeigh and Cahersiveen is the fishing village of Kells, and we recommend you make time for the enchanting. This family-friendly attraction has one of the finest collections of plants in Europe, as well as cool carved dinosaurs that keep the kids occupied as you stroll through 17 hectares of woodland.
Continue along the N70 and head to the Riverside town. Enjoy the beautiful scenery in this quaint little town and spend the night wining and dining in one of its many restaurants before your next journey.
Campsite suggestion: Glenross Caravan & Camping Park
Day 5:
Head towards the Gap of Dunloe, a narrow pass between the Macgillycuddy's Reeks mountain range and the Purple Mountains, and drive through the valley or if you have time, experience the 11km route on foot. You can take a guided tour of the Gap or go on a horseback ride. This is a great opportunity to have a panoramic view of the area.
Hike all the way through the magnificent Gap of Dunloe taking in the towering mountains, wildlife, lakes, and the ‘Wishing Bridge’.
The looped route ends at Kate Kearney’s Cottage, where you can kick back for a rest with hearty pub grub and great hospitality.
Your journey comes to an end in Killarney town. There is so much to see and do along this route that you could spend days doing either item on the itinerary. You can really make this trip your own, all the while taking in the magnificent scenery and learning about the culture and history of the towns, location, and Irish people and their traditions.
The last item on the itinerary is to return the motorhome to the depot. We hope you enjoyed your trip around Kerry. Don’t forget to take a few snaps of yourselves in the motorhome using our Kodak camera to get a discount on your next rental!! :)
Campsite suggestion: Glenross Caravan & Camping Park
This 5-day motorhome journey through Kerry is more than a trip; it's an exploration of the heart and soul of Ireland. Each day brings a new landscape to admire, a piece of history to ponder, and a local tradition to cherish. From the lush gardens of Muckross to the rugged beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way, Kerry reveals its wonders at every turn, always with a warm Irish welcome. Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique escape, this motorhome adventure is the perfect way to experience the magic of Kerry.
As your journey concludes, we invite you to reflect on the moments that made your trip special. And remember, our motorhomes are more than just a means of travel; they are your ticket to an adventure that stays with you long after you've returned the keys.
Don't wait to book your rental motorhome and embark on this unforgettable Irish adventure!
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