Cycling in Killarney is a genuine pleasure — the National Park roads are largely closed to through traffic, the terrain around the lakes is flat and accessible, and the scenery is among the best in Ireland. Bike hire is readily available in the town centre, and within minutes of setting off you can be on quiet park roads with no cars and the mountains all around you. For those wanting more challenge, Killarney is also the start point for the Ring of Kerry cycle — one of Ireland's great long-distance routes.
Cycling in Killarney — at a glance
- National Park roads Largely car-free — ideal for cycling
- Bike hire Several outlets in Killarney town centre
- Easiest route Ross Castle to Muckross — flat, lakeside, 6km each way
- Best challenge Gap of Dunloe — 11km mountain pass
- Long distance Ring of Kerry — 179km circuit
National Park cycling
The roads through Killarney National Park are the best cycling in the area — quiet, scenic and largely flat around the lake shores. The route from Killarney town to Ross Castle, continuing south along Lough Leane to Muckross House and on to Torc Waterfall, covers some of the finest lakeside scenery in Ireland on a surfaced road with minimal traffic. This route can be extended or looped in various ways to make a half-day or full-day ride.
The Gap of Dunloe by bike
Cycling the Gap of Dunloe is one of the great Killarney experiences — harder than it looks but immensely rewarding. The road through the Gap is rough in places and climbs steadily, but the descent into the Black Valley and the views back through the pass make every metre of effort worthwhile. Combine with a boat return across the lakes for the classic full-day circuit.
Lakes Loop
Ross Castle to Muckross House and back along the lake shore — flat, scenic and entirely within the National Park. The best introductory ride in Killarney.
Gap of Dunloe
Cycle from town to Kate Kearney's Cottage and through the Gap — the climb is tough but the views are extraordinary. Return by boat or road.
Ring of Kerry
The full Ring of Kerry circuit — a multi-day cycle around the Iveragh Peninsula taking in some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in Ireland.
Kerry Way by Bike
Sections of the Kerry Way long-distance walking route are also cycleable — quiet roads and tracks through remote Kerry countryside.
Within minutes of leaving Killarney town you can be on car-free park roads with the lakes on one side and ancient woodland on the other.
Practical information
Bike Hire
Several outlets in Killarney town centre — standard bikes, e-bikes and tandems available. Book ahead in summer
E-bikes
Electric bikes are increasingly available in Killarney — a good option for the Gap of Dunloe or longer routes
What to Bring
Waterproof jacket — Kerry weather is unpredictable. Helmet provided with most hire. Lock included
Guided Rides
Guided cycling tours of the National Park and surrounding area are available from several Killarney operators