Exploring Ireland’s captivating Ring of Kerry and Valentia Island has never been easier. This private tour offers a personalized experience, allowing guests to enjoy the region’s natural wonders under the guidance of a knowledgeable local. From the geological marvels of Valentia to the majestic Macgillycuddy Reeks, the tour showcases the area’s cultural heritage and breathtaking scenery. With highlights like the Tetrapod Trackway and the charming town of Waterville, this comprehensive experience promises to leave a lasting impression. What secrets might this enchanting corner of Ireland hold?
Key Points
- A private guided tour that covers the stunning scenery of the Ring of Kerry and Valentia Island, including the iconic Tetrapod Trackway and Macgillycuddy Reeks.
- Personalized experience with a knowledgeable local guide who provides in-depth commentary and expertise on the sights and stories along the way.
- Opportunity to explore the traditional way of life at the Bog Village, a living museum showcasing Ireland’s peat-cutting heritage.
- Visit the charming seaside town of Waterville and learn about its connection to legendary golfer Charlie Chaplin.
- Discover the diverse natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Valentia Island, accessible by a bridge and known as the gateway to the Ring of Kerry.
Tour Details
This private tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Ring of Kerry and Skellig Ring, with a focus on showcasing the stunning scenery while a knowledgeable guide handles the driving.
It’s designed for your party only, providing a personalized experience from hotel or port pickup to drop-off.
You’ll venture to highlights like Valentia Island, the Macgillycuddy Reeks, Sneem, Waterville, and the Bog Village, all while your guide shares their expertise.
The tour includes transportation by private vehicle and the services of a professional driver-guide, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey through this picturesque region of Ireland.
Inclusions
The tour includes transportation by private vehicle, as well as the services of a local and professional guide to accompany you throughout the journey. Your guide will provide in-depth knowledge and commentary on the sights and stories along the way. The tour also includes:
| Included | Not Included |
|---|---|
| Private vehicle | Meals |
| Local guide | Gratuities |
| Professional guide | Personal expenses |
| Driver/guide |
With these inclusions, you can relax and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Ring of Kerry and Valentia Island without worrying about the logistics. Your guide will ensure you have a comprehensive and memorable experience.
Tour Highlights
Valentia Island, with its stunning sea cliffs and ancient sites, offers a captivating start to the tour.
The Macgillycuddy Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain range, provide a dramatic backdrop as the journey continues through the charming village of Sneem.
Visitors will then discover the picturesque seaside town of Waterville before exploring the historic Bog Village, a glimpse into Ireland’s rich cultural heritage.
The tour highlights include:
- Discovering the geological wonders of Valentia Island, including the iconic Tetrapod Trackway
- Admiring the breathtaking vistas from the Macgillycuddy Reeks, which rise over 3,000 feet
- Taking in the traditional way of life at the Bog Village, a living museum showcasing Ireland’s peat-cutting heritage
Valentia Island
Private Tour of Ring of Kerry & Valentia Island
Often considered the gateway to the Ring of Kerry, Valentia Island captivates visitors with its diverse natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Accessible by a bridge, the island boasts stunning cliffs, picturesque villages, and historical sites.
Explore the Skellig Experience, a visitor center that showcases the remarkable Skellig Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site just off Valentia’s coast. Visit the Tetrapod Trackway, one of the oldest fossil footprints in the world, and marvel at the dramatic Fogher Cliffs.
Enjoy the island’s vibrant past by touring the Valentia Slate Quarries and the Glanleam Subtropical Gardens, showcasing the island’s mild microclimate. Valentia Island is a captivating stop on any Ring of Kerry adventure.
Macgillycuddy Reeks
Majestic Macgillycuddy Reeks dominate the Ring of Kerry landscape, their rugged peaks offering unparalleled vistas for adventurous hikers.
This dramatic mountain range is a must-see on any tour of the region, with its dramatic cliffs, glacial valleys, and challenging hiking trails.
Some highlights of the Macgillycuddy Reeks include:
- Climbing to the summit of Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest peak, for breathtaking 360-degree views
- Exploring the iconic Gap of Dunloe, a deep glacial valley flanked by towering peaks
- Hiking the Vertical Mile Challenge, a strenuous trail that ascends over 3,000 feet in just 4 miles
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply seeking stunning scenery, the Macgillycuddy Reeks are sure to leave a lasting impression on your Ring of Kerry experience.
Sneem
As visitors continue their journey along the Ring of Kerry, they’ll come across the charming village of Sneem, nestled along the Wild Atlantic Way.
This picturesque Irish town is known for its vibrant streetscape, with colorful buildings and local shops lining the streets. Sneem’s bridges crossing the rivers Sneem and Blackwater offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Visitors can explore the town’s heritage, including the historic Sneem Bridge and St. Michael’s Church. The area also boasts excellent hiking trails, providing opportunities to take in the region’s natural beauty.
Whether strolling through the village or venturing out into the countryside, Sneem offers a delightful taste of traditional Irish life along the Ring of Kerry.
Waterville
Continuing along the Ring of Kerry, visitors arrive in the charming coastal town of Waterville, renowned for its stunning natural scenery and connection to legendary golfer Charlie Chaplin.
The town’s beautiful beach and dramatic cliffs overlooking the Atlantic provide a breathtaking backdrop.
Visitors can:
- Explore the stunning scenery along the Skellig Coast, including the iconic Skellig Islands
- Visit the Charlie Chaplin statue and learn about the famous actor’s love for Waterville
- Enjoy a round of golf at the renowned Waterville Golf Links, ranked among the top courses in Ireland
With its picturesque setting and rich history, Waterville offers a truly memorable experience for those exploring the Ring of Kerry.
Bog Village
The Bog Village on the Ring of Kerry tour provides visitors with a unique glimpse into Ireland’s traditional rural life, showcasing the country’s heritage and way of living.
This open-air museum offers a chance to explore authentic thatched cottages, peat-fired hearths, and ancient crafts like basket weaving. Visitors can step back in time and enjoy the daily routines of a bygone era, gaining a deeper appreciation for the resilience and ingenuity of Ireland’s rural communities.
From learning about traditional farming techniques to witnessing skilled artisans at work, the Bog Village is a captivating and enlightening stop along the Ring of Kerry journey, offering a window into Ireland’s rich cultural tapestry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The private tour is for your party only, so the maximum group size is determined by the size of your party. This allows for a personalized and intimate experience during the tour.
Are There Any COVID-19 Safety Measures in Place?
The tour operator follows current COVID-19 safety guidelines. This may include requiring face masks, providing hand sanitizer, and limiting capacity to allow for social distancing. Specific protocols are subject to change based on local public health recommendations.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Stops?
Yes, the tour can typically be customized to include additional stops. The tour provider is often flexible and willing to accommodate specific requests from travelers, within the tour duration and logistics.
Is There an Option to Include a Stop for Lunch?
Yes, the tour likely offers an option to include a stop for lunch. Many private tours in the area provide flexibility to customize the itinerary, including adding time for a meal at a local restaurant or cafe.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?
The tour’s cancellation and refund policy typically allows for full refunds if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. Partial refunds may be available for later cancellations, but policies can vary so it’s best to check the specific details.
Recap
This private tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the stunning Ring of Kerry and Valentia Island.
With a knowledgeable guide, guests can enjoy the region’s natural wonders, from geological marvels to majestic mountains.
The tour showcases highlights that provide an in-depth understanding of the area’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking scenery, delivering a personalized experience in Ireland’s southwest.
