The Kerry Cliffs
A Spectacular Hidden Gem on Ireland's Skellig Ring
Where are the Kerry Cliffs?
If you are exploring the Ring of Kerry, one of the places I always recommend considering is the spectacular Kerry Cliffs near Portmagee. Standing high above the Atlantic Ocean, these dramatic cliffs offer some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in southwest Ireland, with magnificent views towards the Skellig Islands.
While many visitors know about the famous Cliffs of Moher, the Kerry Cliffs offer a wonderful opportunity to experience another side of Ireland’s rugged Atlantic coastline. They are a highlight of the beautiful Skellig Ring, a scenic route that takes you beyond the traditional Ring of Kerry and into one of the most spectacular parts of County Kerry.
What makes the cliffs so special"
What makes the Kerry Cliffs particularly impressive is their wild, rugged setting. The Atlantic coastline here is wonderfully unspoilt, with towering rock formations, crashing waves and spectacular views in every direction.
The cliffs rise to approximately 1,000 feet high (300 metres) above the ocean, creating an extraordinary vantage point over the surrounding landscape.
Looking out towards the horizon, you can see the famous Skellig Islands. These two rocky islands are steeped in history and are best known for their early Christian monastic settlement on Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For anyone interested in Ireland’s history, landscape and natural beauty, this is a truly memorable place to visit.
The Skellig Islands: A glimpse into Ireland's ancient past
One of the great attractions of visiting the Kerry Cliffs is the opportunity to see the Skellig Islands from the mainland.
Skellig Michael is famous for its remarkable early Christian monastery, where monks lived in stone beehive-shaped huts in an extraordinary and isolated environment. The island is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has also attracted international attention as a filming location for the Star Wars movies.
Even from the mainland, seeing these islands rising out of the Atlantic is an unforgettable experience.
Exploring the Skellig Ring
The Kerry Cliffs are part of the beautiful Skellig Ring, a scenic drive that branches off the main Ring of Kerry route.
The Skellig Ring takes visitors through some of Kerry’s most beautiful coastal scenery, including:
Portmagee: A colourful fishing village with a strong connection to the sea and the Skellig Islands.
Valentia Island: Famous for its spectacular scenery and important role in the history of the first successful transatlantic telegraph cable.
The Kerry Cliffs: A wonderful viewpoint overlooking the Atlantic and the Skellig Islands.
St Finian’s Bay: A beautiful stretch of coastline with views towards the Skelligs.
Ballinskelligs: A charming coastal area with a fascinating heritage and the ruins of an old castle and abbey.
The Skellig Ring is a wonderful addition to a Ring of Kerry itinerary, particularly for visitors who want to discover places beyond the more familiar tourist stops.
When is the best time to visit the Kerry Cliffs?
The Kerry Cliffs can be visited throughout the main tourist season, although weather conditions along this exposed Atlantic coastline can change quickly.
On a clear day, the views towards the Skellig Islands and the surrounding coastline are particularly spectacular. It is worth allowing time to enjoy the scenery, take photographs and experience the atmosphere of this remarkable place.
Comfortable walking shoes and a suitable jacket are recommended, as the weather can be unpredictable.
Always check the local visitor information before travelling, as access and opening arrangements can change.
Discover the Kerry Cliffs with Mary G Tours
Having guided visitors around Kerry for more than four decades, I have always believed that the best way to experience this beautiful part of Ireland is to take your time and discover the stories behind the scenery.
The Kerry Cliffs are one of the highlights of my private Ring of Kerry and Skellig Ring tours. I particularly enjoy sharing the history, heritage and local stories that make this part of Ireland so special.
My tours are personally driven and guided by me, Mary, rather than handed over to another driver or guide. With my background in Irish genealogy, heritage and folklore, I love helping visitors understand not just what they are seeing, but the history and stories that make these places meaningful.
Whether you are visiting Kerry for the first time or returning to explore more deeply, the Kerry Cliffs and Skellig Ring are well worth including in your itinerary.
Planning a visit to Kerry?
Discover my private Ring of Kerry and Skellig Ring tour and experience this spectacular corner of Ireland with Mary G Tours.
If you have any questions about private guided tours or need more information, please feel free to call me. Your adventure in the South West of Ireland awaits!