Skellig Coast and Ring
The Skellig Ring and Coast is an extension to the renowned Ring of Kerry. This hidden gem is 32km in length and is open to cars only due to the narrow country roads. To join this ring you need to take a detour off the main Ring of Kerry west of the N70 North of Waterville, which is also an exciting stop where you can enjoy small casual cafes or high-end gourmet restaurants, shopping and various other activities and attractions. This is the same route that you would take if you were taking a boat trip to the Skellig Islands. The Atlantic Ocean will be on your left on the route.
On the Ring you will enjoy spectacular view of the Skellig Islands, anUNESCO World Heritage Site. The islands lie 12km off the coast and the majestic and dramatic Skellig Michael bursts 218 meters above sea level. On Skellig Michael you will find a remote monastery dated from the 6th Century and despite the exposed seascape the monks remained on the Island until the 13th Century. The Island is home now to a range of wild birds and animals including puffins, gannets and guillemots.
Part of the wonder of the Island to visitors is the ability to follow in the time-worn footsteps of the monks on Skellig Michael dating almost 1,500 years old. There are hundreds of individually-carved winding, stone steps leading up to the monastery and at the top you will see six beehive huts where the monks slept, a church dedicated to St Michael, a walled garden, an early oratory and a cemetery with 22 grave slabs on the grounds.
Film fans may recognise Skellig Michael from the Star Wars Movies, The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi.
Boat tours around the island and drop offs at the Island is available but please note that there is limited capacity and booking is essential.
On the Skellig Ring you can enjoy stunning sandy beaches including the Blue Flag Beach at Ballinskelligs, quaint towns and villages to stop off for a snack or driving break.
