Wave-beaten cliffs, verdant agricultural plains dotted with ancient stone fortifications, summits shrouded in cloud, misty peat expanses… Some of Ireland's most emblematic landscapes are to be discovered in County Kerry, not far from tourist towns like Killarney.

History

Ciarraí in Irish derives from "Ciarraighe," a local tribe in pre-Gaelic times. Much of the history of County Kerry before its creation in the late 16th century remains unknown. The numerous prehistoric remains scattered across the region nonetheless demonstrate human presence in ancient times.

Following the first Norman conquest led by Strongbow, clan wars continued in Kerry; the McCarthy were the most powerful tribe. In the 14th century, the Anglo-Irish Earl of Desmond, linked to the Fitzgerald dynasty, took control of the county's northern part. After the Nine Years' War in Ireland (1594 to 1603), English settlers, historically called "planters," confiscated most lands in Kerry. A portion was assigned to the Browne family.

A new rebellion erupted in Ireland in 1641, initiated by Irish Catholics opposing the Protestant regime in Ireland. In County Kerry, the revolt was led by a member of the McCarthy family, whose troops were the last to resist Cromwell's invasion in 1652. Ross Castle, near Killarney, was the last stronghold to surrender.

The Great Famine in Ireland between 1845 and 1852 claimed thousands of lives. Several groups left the country via Kerry. In the 20th century, the county witnessed numerous events of the Irish War of Independence (1919–1921): a confrontation between the Irish Republican Army and the British Army, the siege of Tralee in November 1920, the Headford Junction ambush and the assassination at Castle Island in 1921. Kerry was among the greatest victims of the Irish Civil War in 1922-1923. Like other regions of Western Ireland, the county managed to recover slowly during the rest of the 20th century and even became one of the country's leading tourist destinations.

Discovering County Kerry

Essential towns in County Kerry

Gateway to one of Ireland's finest national parks, Killarney boasts a bustling tourist center, with colorful shops, cafés and restaurants, diverse pubs, and more. It's the starting point for the Ring of Kerry, a loop route through a mountainous region, facing the Iveragh Peninsula.

A former fishing port established near the mouth of the River Ferta, Cahersiveen is the main town on Iveragh Island. After a difficult period in the late 20th century, the town has gained new momentum and is emerging as a tourist destination. The main street, the former barracks, and riverside areas have been rehabilitated.

Located north of the Dingle Peninsula, in a bay, Tralee was devastated by wars in the 17th century, but its few streets offer beautiful walks. In August, the Rose of Tralee Festival is a popular event in Ireland, during which thousands of people vote for an "Irish beauty queen".

Kenmare sits at the estuary of the Finihy, Roughty and Sheen rivers, in the heart of a mountainous cirque. Two shopping streets cross its town center. The Market Street extends from the main square toward the Stone Circle, which groups fifteen Bronze Age monoliths. Don't miss the Lace and Design Centre either, which showcases a splendid lace collection.

Escapes into nature

Situated between Killarney and Kenmare, the Killarney National Park covers more than 100 km². It is home to Carrauntoohil, Ireland's highest mountain, standing at 1,039 m. From Ladies View, you'll have a panoramic vista of Lough Leane and neighboring lakes. The Torc Waterfall, 20 m high, is equally stunning.

On the coast, the Wild Atlantic Way offers as many adventures and breathtaking landscapes. Facing the Kerry coast, the Skellig Islands have retained a wild charm. The largest, Skellig Michael, harbors an ancient monastery in its heights. To reach it, you'll need to climb a long staircase, carved by hand into the rock by ancient inhabitants.

When to visit County Kerry?

The least rainy period in County Kerry spans May and June. To avoid tourist crowds during summer season, plan your trip for early May.

By road

The N21 from Limerick and the N22 from Cork are the main national roads serving County Kerry. The Ring of Kerry runs along the N70, through the Iveragh Peninsula. The N86 connects Dingle to Tralee. The county has an extensive bus network that converges at Killarney and Tralee.

By rail

County Kerry has four main train stations (Killarney, Tralee, Farranfore and Rathmore) connected to Dublin Heuston and Cork.

By air

Kerry Airport is located on the N23, between Farranfore and Castle Island. It receives flights from Dublin, London, Frankfurt-Hahn, Alicante in Spain and Faro in Portugal.

By sea

Fenit Harbour, near Tralee, has a marina.

By car or bicycle, the roads are pleasant to travel. You can also get around by train or bus.

What to do in County Kerry?

• Travel through the Ring of Kerry from Killarney
• Discover the monoliths of Stone Circle in Kenmare
• Hike Mount Carrauntoohil
• Seek out Torc Waterfall in Killarney National Park
• Visit the Skellig Islands, etc.