7 Day Southwest Ireland Road Trip (Kerry + Cork)

Welcome to my tried-and-tested 7 day Southwest Ireland Road Trip that takes in the best of Kerry and Cork.

This guide is part of my 7 days in Ireland series where you’ll find 7 different ways to explore Ireland in a week!

Itinerary overview:

• Day 1: Cork City. Today depends on arrival time (stay in Cork City)
• Day 2: Day trip to Blarney, Cobh and Spike Island (Cork City)
• Day 3: Kinsale, the West Cork Coast and Clonakilty (Bantry)
• Day 4: Sheep’s Head, Mizen and more (Bantry)
• Day 5: The Ring of Beara (Killarney)
• Day 6: The Ring of Kerry (Killarney)
• Day 7: Depends when you need to leave. Ideally, Dingle Peninsula (Killarney)

7 day Southwest Ireland itinerary

In an ideal world, you’d have 7 full days for this Southwest Ireland road trip. In reality, day 1 and day 7 will likely be travel-heavy, so you need to plan with that in mind.

1. For those flying into Ireland

Ideally you’d be flying into Cork, but that’s probably not likely. Here are some scenarios:

• You’re flying in/out of Dublin: Spend 1 day in Dublin to give yourself time to rest. Then spend night 2 in Cork City (visit Cobh and Blarney en route). Keep days 3 and 4 the same. Skip Beara. Do the ROK on day 5 and Dingle on Day 6. You then have day 7 to get back to Dublin (only works if you have a late flight).
• You’re flying in/out of Shannon: Land and head to Killarney (here’s a 1 day Killarney itinerary). Stay in Killarney 3 nights. Do the ROK on day 2 and Dingle on Day 3. Do Beara on day 4 and Sheep’s Head/Mizen on day 5. Day 6 can be the reverse of day 3 on the itinerary map above. Then head back to Shannon on day 7.

2. For those living in Ireland

• Where to start: Begin from whichever end is closest (Cork City or Killarney)
• Your day 1: Let drive time dictate the pace. Long drive to start point = handy day 1. Short drive = more time to explore
• Your day 7: If home is far, travel straight back and trim the itinerary earlier (see flight-based scenarios above)

3. How you’ll get around

This route isn’t possible without a car as many places, e.g. Sheep’s Head, aren’t serviced by regular public transport. See my tips for renting a car in Ireland if you plan on hiring one.

Day 1: Cork City

As I mentioned above, day 1 of your tour of Southwest Ireland will depend on what time you arrive into Cork City.

I’ve created the map above for you with a handy itinerary that’ll take you to the main things to do in Cork City.

Adjust it to suit your arrival time. I’ll take you through the entire day below, from breakfast to beers!

Where to stay in Cork City

• Budget: Sheilas Tourist Hostel (near the train station) + Redclyffe Guesthouse (nice and central with great reviews)
• Mid-range: The Metropole (central with superb reviews) and Hotel Isaacs (in the Victorian Quarter – top-notch rooms and reviews)
• Luxury: Imperial Hotel (stunning and very central hotel) and Hayfield Manor (beautiful, boutique, city centre 5-star)

1. The English Market

Even if you’re not stopping for food, Cork’s English Market is well worth a quick detour.

There’s been a market trading on this spot since 1788, though the building you see today was constructed in the mid-1800s.

Take a moment outside, then step through the ornate entrance and look up at the stained glass and the sweeping interior arches.

Arrive early and you can grab one of Cork’s best breakfasts from O’Flynn’s Gourmet Sausage Company.

2. Elizabeth Fort

Between the market and our next stop, Elizabeth Fort, you’ll pass Bishop Lucey Park, which exposes a section of Cork’s medieval walls near the gate, and the National Monument, unveiled in 1906 to commemorate Irish patriots from 1798 to 1867.

Keep walking until you reach the fort. Named after Queen Elizabeth I, it was built in 1601 to act as a defensive fortification outside of the city walls.

Over time, as the city expanded, it started to grow around the fort, making it redundant. This resulted in the fort being used as a military barracks and then a prison.

Visitors to Elizabeth Fort can enjoy a fantastic view from the fort walls while also diving into the history of where and how the city was developed.

Feeling hungry/thirsty? The Fort is a short stroll from Tom Barry’s where you’ll find great pizzas, pints and a roaring fire during winter!

3. St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral

You don’t need a background in architecture to appreciate St Fin Barre’s Cathedral. As you draw closer, the detail starts to reveal itself.

Tall spires rise above the street, while gargoyles and dense stone carving crowd the exterior, rewarding a slower approach.

Inside, the focus shifts underfoot and overhead. Patterned mosaics run across the floor, the chancel ceiling is bright with colour, and the bishop’s throne anchors the space.

Before you leave, look for the cannonball lodged in the fabric of the building. It was fired in 1690 from nearby Elizabeth Fort during the Siege of Cork, a reminder that this was once a contested corner of the city, not just a place of worship.

4. Cork City Gaol 

A visit to Cork City Gaol offers a sharp insight into life in Cork during the 19th and early 20th centuries, both inside and beyond the prison walls.

The exhibition leads you through furnished cells while unpacking the daily realities of prisoners and staff, from routines and punishments to the wider social conditions of the city at the time.

While the personal stories leave the strongest impression, the building itself holds its own. Opened in 1824, the gaol is imposing, carefully preserved, and worth paying attention to as you move through it.

Get the bus: Cork Gaol is around a 30-minute walk from the city centre. If you’re stuck for time, the 202, 202A, 208, 40 buses all stop nearby!

5. The Shandon Bell Tower

One of Cork City’s more unusual experiences takes place at the 17th-century Church of St. Anne. The tower rises 170 feet above the street, with stone walls that are around seven feet thick.

Climb the 132 steps to the top and you’re rewarded with uninterrupted, 360-degree views across Cork City. Before you leave, look for the fish-shaped weather vane perched above the tower.

Known locally as the “Goldie Fish”, it stretches over four metres in length and is finished in gold leaf. The vane is a nod to Cork’s once-thriving salmon fishing industry, which played a major role in the city’s economy at the time.

Ring the bells: This is one of the only churches on earth where you can ring the bells unaccompanied. You grab the clapper (the rope) and it bounces off the bell!

6. An evening in Cork City

Day 1 of this Southwest of Ireland itinerary promises plenty to look forward to, courtesy of Cork’s exceptional restaurants and its wide range of heritage pubs:

Where to eat

There are plenty of great restaurants in Cork City. Here are the ones I find myself returning to over and over again:

• Market Lane: A mix of Irish favourites and vibrant international dishes
• Elbow Lane: Wood-fired meats, bold global flavours, and house-brewed beers served in a stylish smokehouse
• The SpitJack: Rotisserie-focused dining with Irish produce and creative cocktails
• Jacobs on the Mall: Contemporary Irish and European dishes served in a former Turkish Baths

Live music and trad bars

There are some mighty pubs in Cork City, especially for those of you, like myself, that love a pub with a bit of history. Here are my go-tos:

• Mutton Lane (1787): Tucked down a dim alley with Civil War history etched into its walls and candlelight flickering off wood interior
• Costigan’s (1849): A timeless Victorian pub with a roaring fire, snug corners, and over 170 years of history behind the bar
• The Hi-B Bar (1920s): A quirky, no-phones-allowed bar with vintage décor and a charm that’s charmed locals for a century
• The Shelbourne (1895): A polished old pub that boasts Cork’s biggest whiskey selection and original snugs
• The Oval (Early 1900s): Built by Beamish Brewery with a rare oval ceiling and moody, candle-lit charm

Day 2: Blarney and Cobh

Day 2 of my Southwest of Ireland road trip sees you head off on a day-trip to Blarney, first, followed by the nearby town of Cobh.

This day requires less than 1.5 hours of driving, depending on the traffic levels when you’re coming back into the city.

1. Blarney Castle

Stop 1 is Blarney Castle, around a 25-minute drive from Cork City. It opens from 9am, and you’ll want at least two hours here, so an early start pays off.

One of Ireland’s best-known castles, Blarney Castle was built in 1446 by Cormac Láidir MacCarthy on the remains of two earlier fortifications.

Across the centuries, it withstood multiple sieges, including during the Irish Confederate Wars, before falling to Williamite forces. Ownership changed several times before the estate was acquired by Sir James St John Jefferyes.

Today, the appeal goes well beyond the castle walls. The history is layered and tangible, and the surrounding grounds are extensive, carefully maintained, and easy to spend time exploring.

2. Spike Island

From Blarney, make the 40-minute drive to Cobh, where you’ll catch the ferry to Spike Island. Aim to leave Blarney by 11:10 at the latest to stay on schedule.

Spike Island’s story stretches back to a 6th-century monastic settlement. In 1779, the British constructed a star fort here, which later evolved into a prison.

By the 1850s, more than 2,000 convicts were held on the island, earning it the grim distinction of being the largest prison in the world at the time. Harsh punishment cells and mass graves cemented its reputation as “Ireland’s Alcatraz”.

Set aside around 3.5 hours in total, allowing for the ferry crossings and the guided tour. There’s a café on the island, which is the handiest place to grab lunch before heading back.

3. The Titanic Experience

Back in town, make your way to the Titanic Experience, one of the most visited attractions in Cobh.

On 11 April 1912, the Titanic anchored offshore here, when the town was still known as Queenstown.

From this point, 123 passengers boarded the ship by tender from the White Star Line offices, the very building that now houses the museum.

Inside, you’ll find original passenger records, boarding passes, and access to the pier itself. Guided tours trace the stories of those who left Ireland that day, many of whom never returned.

4. Cobh Cathedral

From here, take the short but steep 10-minute climb up to St Coleman’s Cathedral. Built from Cork limestone and red Cork marble, and finished with vivid stained glass, it’s one of Cork’s most beautiful buildings.

The cathedral was designed by William Burges and constructed between 1865 and 1870. Although the original budget sat at £15,000, the final cost came in close to £100,000.

Today, it’s still very much in use. Alongside daily services, the cathedral hosts concerts and events, continuing a choral tradition that stretches back more than 700 years.

5. The Deck of Cards

The famous Deck of Cards is a colourful row of houses in Cobh, set against St. Coleman’s Cathedral. Here’s where to get a look at them:

• West View Park (ground level view): Classic straight-on shot with the cathedral rising behind the colourful houses
• Top of West View (hill viewpoint): Look down the slope with the houses on your right and Cork Harbour in the distance
• Cannon O’Leary Place (rear angle): Capture the colourful backs of the houses with gardens and sea in the frame.
• Spy Hill (not recommended): Offers a high, dramatic angle but involves a potentially dangerous climb and is intrusive to residents

6. Back to Cork City

When you finish up in Cobh, take the 30-minute drive back to Cork City where you’ll spend the second evening of your 7 day Southwest Ireland road trip.

Where to eat

There are plenty of great restaurants in Cork City. Here are the ones I find myself returning to over and over again:

• Market Lane: A mix of Irish favourites and vibrant international dishes
• Elbow Lane: Wood-fired meats, bold global flavours, and house-brewed beers served in a stylish smokehouse
• The SpitJack: Rotisserie-focused dining with Irish produce and creative cocktails
• Jacobs on the Mall: Contemporary Irish and European dishes served in a former Turkish Baths

Live music and trad bars

There are some mighty pubs in Cork City, especially for those of you, like myself, that love a pub with a bit of history. Here are my go-tos:

• Mutton Lane (1787): Tucked down a dim alley with Civil War history etched into its walls and candlelight flickering off wood interior
• Costigan’s (1849): A timeless Victorian pub with a roaring fire, snug corners, and over 170 years of history behind the bar
• The Hi-B Bar (1920s): A quirky, no-phones-allowed bar with vintage décor and a charm that’s charmed locals for a century
• The Shelbourne (1895): A polished old pub that boasts Cork’s biggest whiskey selection and original snugs
• The Oval (Early 1900s): Built by Beamish Brewery with a rare oval ceiling and moody, candle-lit charm

Day 3: Kinsale and Clonakilty

I’d recommend getting an early start on day 3 of your Southwest of Ireland adventure, as there’s plenty to see and do.

You’re going to start by sampling the best things to do in Kinsale, before heading off along the coast. Here’s what to expect!

1. Colourful Kinsale

I’ve created the map above that outlines a handy 1-day Kinsale itinerary that you can follow.

Now, you won’t have time to do everything outlined above, but I’d strongly recommend that you at least:

• Town ramble: Kinsale is a joy to stroll around. Grab a coffee and stroll along its colourful streets
• The Scilly Walk: Historic 2.5km path linking Kinsale to Summercove, with glorious harbour views
• Charles Fort: 17th-century star-shaped fort built to defend Kinsale Harbour

2. The drive to Bantry via the coast

So, the rest of day 3 is going to be spent working your way along the coast and out to Bantry Town.

Hopefully you’re following this road trip during the summer/spring (see the best time to visit Ireland) as you’ll have long daylight hours.

My map above gives you a sense of the main stops along the way, so pick and choose however you see fit (personally, I think Timoleague Friary and Inchydoney Beach are the two places most worth stopping at!).

3. Bantry

Day 3 of my 7 day Southwest Ireland itinerary finishes in Bantry Town, around a 50-minute drive from Clonakilty (total drive time for today is around 2.5 hours).

Dinner recommendations

Bantry has lots of great places to eat, but my go-to’s are:

• The Snug: Hearty pub grub
• Fish Kitchen: Exceptional seafood

Live music and trad bars

• Ma Murphy’s: A fourth-generation Irish pub, full of charm with a lovely beer garden
• Anchor Tavern: an old-school Irish pub with traditional decor and a cosy atmosphere

Day 4: Sheep’s Head and mighty Mizen

While many of you planning a visit to Southwest Ireland will likely have heard of Mizen Head, it’s likely most won’t be aware of Sheep’s Head and its surrounds.

For those of you unaware, you’re in for a treat today. This is wild West Cork at its finest. You’ll cover 146km/91 miles today over the course of 3 hours total drive time.

I’d recommend grabbing some snacks/a sandwich from one of the shops in Bantry to tide you over for lunch, as you’ll likely struggle to find somewhere to eat until late in the afternoon.

1. Bantry House and Gardens

Set above Bantry Bay with far-reaching views, Bantry House is the first stop of the day.

Dating back to 1710, the house is open to visitors and filled with grand rooms, artworks gathered from across the world, and detailed guidebooks that explain its past.

Outside, there are seven terraced gardens, woodland walks, and the well-known 100 steps, all overlooking the bay. The tearoom in the west wing is a handy stop for food after a wander.

Stop 2. Fionn mac Cumhaill’s Seat

Leaving Bantry Town, follow the coast road west as the land opens out into wide skies and Atlantic views. Around 25 minutes later, you’ll reach Fionn mac Cumhaill’s Seat (here on Maps).

This Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point sits above Kilcrohane, with views across Bantry Bay and towards the Beara Peninsula

The stone bench stands on Seefin, the highest point on the Sheep’s Head Peninsula, and was unveiled in 1996 to mark the opening of the Sheep’s Head Way.

It was carved by Cork sculptor Ken Thompson and features a line by Seamus Heaney inspired by the surrounding landscape.

Its name comes from Irish folklore, with Fionn mac Cumhaill said to have rested here, legs stretched out towards the lake below.

Stop 3. Sheep’s Head Lighthouse

Continue on for around 20 minutes to the car park for Sheep’s Head Lighthouse.

The small white tower was built in 1968 to guide oil tankers heading to the Gulf Oil terminal on Whiddy Island. It stands seven metres tall, with the light positioned 83 metres above sea level, flashing three times every 15 seconds.

The lighthouse is fully automated and unstaffed, with power supplied by a line of ESB poles. All building materials were flown in by helicopter, requiring around 250 trips.

From the car park, allow roughly 30 – 35 minutes each way to walk to the lighthouse, and take note of the warnings on the route.

Stop 4. Dunmanus Bay views

As you drive along the eastern side of the Sheep’s Head Peninsula, the road delivers continuous views across Dunmanus Bay and over to the Mizen Peninsula.

It’s a quiet, narrow stretch, often pressed against the hillside, with stone walls, isolated farms, and long sweeps of open water below.

On clear days, Mount Gabriel is visible in the distance. There’s no formal stop here. Just take it in as you go.

Stop 5. Dooneen Pier

Around 15 minutes from the lighthouse car park, Dooneen Pier extends confidently into Dunmanus Bay.

Built in the 1800s, it once played an important role in the local fishing trade, serving as a landing point for coal and salt.

Remnants of the old storehouse and a concrete magazine can still be seen nearby. These days, it’s a quiet, overlooked spot that rewards a short pause.

Stop 6. Dunlough Fort

Our next stop is Dunlough Castle, also known as the Three Castles. The hour-long drive from Dooneen Pier crosses the rugged interior of the Mizen Peninsula, with narrow roads climbing through bogland, open hills, and scattered stone walls.

After parking near the trailhead, you’ll find an honesty box. Bring cash (€3 per person).

Dunlough Castle was built in 1207 by Donagh O’Mahony. It occupies a narrow strip of land between a cliff edge and a mountain lake, chosen deliberately for defence.

Three towers were once linked by a wall running from lake to cliff. The O’Mahonys held the site for over four centuries before it was taken by the Crown in the 1600s.

Stop 7. Mizen Head

Mizen Head is a 10-minute drive from Dunlough and marks one of Ireland’s most dramatic coastal points.

The signal station has guided ships since the early 1900s, and the visitor centre explores local maritime disasters, including the wreck of the SS Stephen Whitney in 1847, which later led to the construction of Fastnet Lighthouse.

You’ll also learn about the 1908 rescue of 63 sailors from the SS Trada and the introduction of fog signals in 1909.

The bridge, first built in 1910, leads out to cliffs towering above the Atlantic, where shipwreck history, wildlife, and open sea converge.

Stop 8. Barleycove

A 5-minute drive from Mizen brings you to Barleycove Beach. Sheltered between two headlands and backed by dunes, the beach was formed by a tsunami triggered by the Lisbon Earthquake of 1755.

Today, it’s one of West Cork’s standout beaches, with soft sand and views stretching towards Brow Head.

The area is a Special Area of Conservation, with nearby walks, wildlife, and a well-regarded lunch stop at the beach hotel.

Stop 9. Brow Head

10 minutes on from Barleycove, Brow Head marks the southernmost point of mainland Ireland.

Once used for copper mining and later as a military lookout, it’s now a remote headland with sweeping views across to Mizen, Cape Clear, and the Atlantic.

The 1804 signal tower remains intact, and the slopes are dotted with old miners’ cottages. The road up is steep and narrow, but the sense of exposure and isolation is part of the appeal.

Stop 10. Altar Wedge Tomb

One of the final stops on this road trip is Altar Wedge Tomb, a 20-minute drive from Brow Head. You’ll find it tucked away near the edge of Toormore Bay.

This is one of the oldest man-made structures in West Cork. Built over 4,000 years ago, it’s a classic wedge tomb from the late Stone Age, shaped like a narrowing tunnel of upright stones.

It once held cremated remains, animal bones and tools, and was likely used in rituals that changed over the centuries. Later, it became a Mass site during the Penal Laws.

The entrance points towards Mizen Peak, and it may have been aligned with the Samhain sunset.

Stop 11. Schull

Continue on to Schull, next, a 7-minute drive away. This is a relaxed harbour village tucked beneath Mount Gabriel on the Mizen Peninsula.

It may be small, but it’s surrounded by some of the most striking scenery in West Cork. The harbour is filled with boats and the town has a strong reputation for sailing, fresh seafood and stargazing, thanks to its community planetarium.

Stop 12. Ballydehob

Ballydehob is a quirky little village a 10-minute drive from Schull, and it punches well above its weight when it comes to character. It has a rich backstory shaped by copper mining, famine, and a wave of bohemian artists who settled here in the 1960s.

Today, it’s a lively place with a creative streak, known for its colourful buildings, thriving arts scene, and a packed festival calendar, from jazz and folk to vintage threshing weekends.

The old 12-arch railway bridge still spans the estuary, a reminder of when trains rolled through. It’s a brilliant stop on the Mizen loop.

13. Back to Bantry

Day 4 of my Southwest of Ireland road trip finishes after a 20-minute drive to Bantry Town.

Dinner recommendations

Bantry has lots of great places to eat, but my go-to’s are:

• The Snug: Hearty pub grub
• Fish Kitchen: Exceptional seafood

Live music and trad bars

• Ma Murphy’s: A fourth-generation Irish pub, full of charm with a lovely beer garden
• Anchor Tavern: an old-school Irish pub with traditional decor and a cosy atmosphere

Day 5. The Ring of Beara

Day 5 of this 7 day Southwest Ireland itinerary sees you leave Bantry, tackle the Ring of Beara drive and head on to Killarney.

Now, you could also use Kenmare as a base for the next two nights – it’s entirely up to you (here are the pros/cons of Kenmare vs Killarney).

You’ll spend 3 nights in Killarney – here are some good recommendations across all budgets:

Where to stay in Killarney

• Budget: Kingdom Lodge (located right next to the National Park) and Castle Lodge (a cosy B&B just outside the town centre)
• Mid-range: Killaran House (highly rated and very central) and Killarney Avenue (located near the park)
• Luxury: Muckross Park (a 5-star retreat outside the town) and The Killarney Park (charming old-world style near the train station)

1. Glengarriff

The first stop of the day is Glengarriff, around 20 minutes from Bantry. Park up and head to the Sugarloaf Cafe and grab a bit of breakfast/a coffee.

When you’re ready, it’s a short three-minute walk to the Blue Pool, a sheltered natural harbour hidden behind trees and scrub.

If time allows, you can also take the ferry out to Garnish Island. The crossing takes about 15 minutes, and you’ll want to allow at least an hour to explore the island.

2. Healy Pass

From Glengarriff, drive roughly 20 minutes to Adrigole to tackle the Healy Pass, one of Ireland’s most distinctive mountain roads.

Built in 1847 as part of a Famine relief scheme, the road twists and turns relentlessly as it climbs through the mountains, making it one of the bendiest drives in the country.

There are several pull-in points along the way, like this one. Stop where you can, then continue to the summit and pull in again.

On the right, a low hill offers a short five-minute climb. From the top, you’ll get wide views over Glanmire Lake.

3. The route from Healy Pass

After Healy Pass, you’ll need to retrace your steps. Once you reach the coast, follow the road clockwise.

Anyone familiar with the Beara Peninsula will tell you its real appeal lies in the scenery. The landscape feels almost painted, with dramatic shifts around every bend.

The drive from the Healy Pass to Allihies takes about 50 minutes without stopping, but you should allow at least 90 minutes to take it in properly.

One of the standout views on this Southwest of Ireland itinerary is from this pull-in area, just before descending into the village. From Allihies, you’ll pass through Eyeries, take a detour to Glenbeg Lough and have the opportunity to visit Gleninchaquin Park.

4. Kenmare

When you arrive in Kenmare, park up and head for a ramble. If you didn’t get lunch on the Beara Peninsula, there are great places to eat in Kenmare, including Davitt’s.

When your belly’s full, set off for a stroll – my map above outlines a good walking route that takes in the best of the town.

5. Killarney for the night

Day 5 of this Southwest Ireland itinerary finishes in the lively town of Killarney! While there are plenty of things to do in Killarney, now’s the time to kick back and relax!

Here are some good food and pub recommendations:

• Restaurants in Killarney: Cronins, Porterhouse and the Mad Monk never disappoint
• Pubs in Killarney: O’Connors and Jimmy Brien’s are two great spots for a pint
• Live music: Murphy’s Bar and J.M. Reidy’s and two good shouts for live tunes

Day 6: The Ring of Kerry

Day 6 takes arguably the most famous corner of the Southwest of Ireland – the Iveragh Peninsula.

Today, you’ll be following my 1 day Ring of Kerry itinerary that also takes in the spectacular Skellig Ring.

You’ll be staying in Killarney again this evening, so no need to worry about moving accommodation.

1. The Ring of Kerry

I’ve got a tried-and-tested (I’ve done it many times) Ring of Kerry route that I outline in the map above.

Rather than going into all the stops in detail (you can find that here), here’s a quick overview.

This itinerary starts with the best of Killarney National Park, before continuing along the N70 road:

• Stop 1: Ross Castle: Perched on the edge of Lough Leane for over 500 years
• Stop 2: Muckross Abbey: Stunning ruins dating back to 1448
• Stop 3: Torc Waterfall: A 66 ft high waterfall just 5 minutes from the car park
• Stop 4: Ladies View: A breathtaking viewpoint.
• Stop 5: Moll’s Gap: A scenic mountain pass with incredible views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks
• Stop 6: Kenmare: You’ll have visited here yesterday, so you can leave it out
• Stop 7: Staigue Stone Fort: An ancient fort dating back to 300 – 400 AD
• Stop 8: Caherdaniel: Stop for lunch at the Blind Piper
• Stop 9: Derrynane Beach: One of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches
• Stop 10: Coomakista Viewpoint: Enjoy stunning views of Deenish and Scariff Islands
• Stop 11: Coomanaspig: A lofty viewpoint accessible by car
• Stop 12: Kerry Cliffs: Towering 1,000 ft-high cliffs that will leave you speechless.
• Stop 13: Valentia Island: Visit the Geokaun Viewpoint for jaw-dropping scenery.
• Stop 14: Dinner in Portmagee
• Stop 15: Return to Killarney for the night

Day 7: Dingle Peninsula/it depends

So, the final day of this 7 day Southwest of Ireland itinerary is completely dependant on you and your travel plans.

If you’re heading home today, then head off on your merry way. If you have the full day to explore, excellent – you’ll be tackling the Dingle Peninsula Drive!

1. Inch Beach

Inch Beach is a 45-minute drive from Killarney and it kicks-off day 7 of your Southwest of Ireland road trip.

Inch is actually a little peninsula, as you’ll see from the map above. While I call it ‘little,’ it stretches an impressive 5.5km out into the water.

Take a stroll along the sands of Inch, and you’ll spot both locals and visitors testing their skills against the waves (some more successfully than others)!

2. Minard Castle

One of the often-overlooked gems on the Dingle Peninsula Loop is just a quick 15-minute drive from Inch – Minard Castle and Beach.

The drive up is fairly straightforward, though you’ll be navigating narrow country roads often shared with farming vehicles.

Fans of classic cinema might recognise the castle from the 1970s film ‘Ryan’s Daughter,’ where it was referred to as ‘The Tower.’

3. The Slea Head Drive

Leave Minard and pass through Dingle Town (don’t worry – you’ll visit it later on).

You’re about a 20-minute drive from the start of the Slea Head Drive, a 38km (24-mile) route showcasing many of the top attractions in Dingle.

Here’s a quick guide to the highlights along the way:

1. Ventry Beach: A 4.5km Blue Flag beach
2. Ceann Sleibhe and the White Cross: Two incredible viewpoints
3. Radharc na mBlascaoidí: Panoramic views of Dunmore Head
4. Coumeenoole Beach: A breathtaking beach with strong rip tides
5. Dun Chaoin Pier: Launch point for the Blasket Island Ferry
6. Ceann Sraithe: A famous Star Wars filming spot
7. Clogher Strand: One of Kerry’s most beautiful beaches

4. Dingle Town for lunch and a stroll

The Slea Head Drive will take you back into Dingle Town (there’s parking available near the harbour).

You’ll find plenty of excellent restaurants in Dingle (Fish Box is a personal favourite!) and countless old-school pubs to enjoy.

When you’ve had a good feed, head for a ramble around the town via the route outlined in my map.

5. Conor Pass

When you leave Dingle Town, take the 15-minute drive up to Conor Pass.

Conor Pass is one of Ireland’s highest mountain passes, and it’s not for the faint-hearted, especially if you’re a nervous driver.

Thankfully, you don’t have to tackle the full drive. Coming from the Dingle side, you’ll reach a car park before the road narrows.

From here, you can take in sweeping views of the valley below and watch cars wind their way through the challenging bends from a safe distance.

6. Back to Killarney

When you leave Conor Pass, you’re around an hour and 10-minute drive from Killarney.

If you don’t fancy the drive, you could easily spend nights 5 and 6 in Killarney and then night 7 in Dingle (see my guide on where to stay in Dingle).

And that, folks, is a wrap on my Southwest Ireland itinerary! Have questions? Ask away in the comments below! Cheers!

Explore beyond the Southwest of Ireland

I’d always recommend weighing up different options when it comes do deciding what to do in Ireland for a week!

You’ve already seen my Southwest of Ireland itinerary, now here are some other options (you can see each on my map above):

• West of Ireland itinerary
• West Coast of Ireland road trip
• Donegal and Northern Ireland itinerary
• Fly into Dublin and out of Shannon road trip
• Northern Ireland itinerary