Kerry Car Hire

Located on the south west coast of Ireland, the county of Kerry is famous for spectacular scenery, historic ruins and vast unspoilt nature. Home to the highest mountains in the country, some of the largest forests, and also featuring an important cultural history, particularly significant to locals, the area is a highly recommended place to visit. A popular destination for Irish travellers, as well as visitors from abroad, Kerry features a famous tourist route that follows the coastline, and forms a circle through most towns in the area, making it perfect for touring with a hire car.

To view driving distances from Kerry to other destinations in Ireland and car hire information, click here

Drive a Hire Car in Kerry

The largest town in Kerry and the most convenient place to begin your tour of the area is Killarney, located near the shores of Lough Leane, the largest lake in the region. You can collect your hire car when you arrive into Killarney, or alternatively you can collect it at more other major towns and cities in Ireland and drive across.

A highly recommended place to check out before leaving here is Ross Castle, found just a short drive south west of the town centre, on the shores of the lake. Built in the 15th century, the castle is in superb condition and offers an insight into how the wealthy cheiftans of the area once lived. From the castle you can also board a boat to take you out to Innisfallen Island, on which the ruins of a 7th century abbey can be found.

Jump in your hire car and follow the tourist route south west of the town, which will soon have you driving through Killarney National Park, the oldest national park in Ireland. This is the largest native forest in the whole country, and is home to loads of rare animals such as Red Deer, as well as vast birdlife.

As you follow the Ring of Kerry, you will come across a great number of historical sites, including the ruins of forts, castles and abbeys, as well as loads of charming towns and villages. Notable towns to visit include Kenmare, Sneem, Waterville, and Killorgin. Be sure to also stop at the town of Caherciveen, where you will find the impressive ruins of 16th century Ballycarbey Castle.

For a truly unique day trip, you can board a boat from Portmagee, right near Caherciveen, and head out to explore Skellig Michael, a small island featuring the remains of a 6th century settlement. A well preserved monastery and numerous stone structures combine to give you a unique view of how the locals lived here many centuries ago.