Wild Atlantic Way from Lahinch to Sneem
Highlights along the Wild Atlantic Way between Lahinch, County Clare and Sneem, County Kerry.
Vandeleur Walled Garden
Located in Kilrush, not far from the Shannon Ferry. Lovely walled garden and tasty cafe.
Find more enchanting Irish gardens!
Carrigafoyle Castle
Built in the 1490s by the O'Connor Kerry. Managed by the OPW and open from May thru September.
The road to this castle is narrow and prone to flooding.
Rattoo Round Tower
The only complete round tower in County Kerry, located near Ballyduff. Dated to the late 11th century.
Managed by the OPW.
Learn more about OPW Heritage Cards.
Ardfert Cathedral
A trio of medieval churches standing on the original site of a monastery founded by St. Brendan.
The cathedral was begun in the 12th century.
Ballyseede Castle
The only castle hotel in County Kerry and one of the most affordable castle stays in Ireland.
The Ring of Kerry
The most popular driving route in Ireland; Killarney is the traditional base for day trips of this route.
Cahergal Stone Fort
An Iron Age fort believed to have been built around 600AD. This site has been restored.
Lecanabuaile Ring Fort – which shares the same parking area- was closed the day we visited. I believe it was because the farmer had sheep grazing there. Lecanbuaile is visible from Cahergal.
Tip: be sure to stop and chat with Jack Griffin and snap a photo with a baby lamb (it's a photo opp worth a few Euro – no rush, no lines).
Skellig Ring
A smaller ‘ring road' off the Ring of Kerry with views of the Skellig Islands. Boats tours to the Skelligs leave from small villages along this route.
Visiting Skellig Michael
Since we are in Portmagee, one of the marinas that Skellig Landing Tours leave from, I want to share just a few thoughts on visiting the Skellig Islands.
- Boats depart from early May thru October 1
- Only a few operators are licensed to provide landing tours
- A limited number of people are allowed on the island daily
- Tours book quickly, so once you know your date(s) in the area, book your tour
- Tours will be cancelled due to weather, so I recommend 2 days in the area, just in case
- Even on the nicest days the crossing can still be rough
- You need to be relatively healthy and fit to be able to climb 618 steep, uneven steps – I highly recommend the use of hiking poles
- This is not a site for children; I recommend no one under 15 visit
- If you experience vertigo or have a fear of heights, this is not a site for you
- More information & safety video at the Skellig Michael OPW page
Staigue Stone Fort
2500 year old ring fort built of dry stone (no mortar).
The road to the fort is narrow and winding, so drive with extreme caution.
To hear more about the places listed push play on the podcast episode below.
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Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 203
- Discover Ireland's Hidden Charms: Fall and Winter Travel Insights - September 12, 2024
- How to get Around Dublin - September 9, 2024
- Dublin Airport – Tips for Arrival and Departure - September 9, 2024
