Atlantic Town & Mountain Passes – Dublin Airport → Kenmare, Co. Kerry
Between the Ring of Kerry and the Beara Peninsula, Kenmare is a picture-perfect harbour town framed by mountains and bays. It’s a gateway to some of Ireland’s most scenic drives, gourmet dining, and craft-filled streets. Your private chauffeur takes care of the long south-western journey so you arrive rested—ready for a walk along Henry Street, a seafood dinner, or the first miles of the Ring.
Vehicle Options (One-Way)
- Mercedes Viano or similar (up to 7 guests / 7 suitcases): €720
- Mercedes S-Class or similar (up to 3 guests / 2 large cases): €790
- Optional stopovers: 1 h + €60 • 2 h + €100
Snapshot for Planners
- Distance / time: ≈370 km • typically ~5 h–5 h 15 min, traffic permitting
- Route: M50 → M7 → M8 → N73 to Mallow → N22 through Macroom & Killarney → R569 mountain road to Kenmare. The last stretch is a winding scenic descent from the mountains into the bay.
- Complimentary comfort pause: 20 minutes on request
Realistic Detours Along the Route
- Rock of Cashel – medieval fortress above Tipperary
- Cahir Castle – one of Ireland’s largest, on an island in the River Suir
- Muckross House & Gardens, Killarney National Park – 19th-century mansion with lakeside walks
- Torc Waterfall – short woodland walk to a cascading fall
Why Kenmare Stands Out
- Location at the meeting point of the Ring of Kerry & Beara Peninsula
- Award-winning dining scene, from seafood bistros to fine dining
- Colourful streets with artisan craft shops and galleries
- Nearby scenic drives, including Healy Pass and Moll’s Gap
- Access to Gleninchaquin Park – waterfalls, walking trails, and valley views
- Close to Killarney National Park and its lakes
- Day-trip distance to Garnish Island and its famous gardens
Moments Not to Miss in and Around Kenmare
- Stroll along the harbour at sunset with the Caha Mountains in view
- Explore the Ring of Kerry or Beara Peninsula as day trips
- Visit Kenmare’s stone circle – one of the largest in the southwest
- Browse the Wednesday farmers’ market for local cheeses, breads, and crafts
- Take the winding drive over Healy Pass for dramatic mountain scenery
- Enjoy panoramic views from Moll’s Gap after a short trip from town
- Visit the gardens and walking trails of Gleninchaquin Park
- Cruise to Garnish Island from nearby Glengarriff
Your Chauffeur Route – How It Feels
Leaving Dublin’s motorways behind, the M7 sweeps south past open farmland toward the Galtee Mountains. Crossing into Munster, the route narrows and curves through Mallow and Macroom before the scenery lifts into the Killarney lakes and mountains. The R569 winds through valleys and forests until Kenmare appears—a colourful, lively harbour town where bay meets mountains. Bags unloaded, you’re ready to wander or toast the evening in a cosy pub.
Practical Info
- Booking window: 24–48 h recommended (peak summer fills quickly)
- Payment: card • bank transfer • cash (confirm when booking)
- Luggage & extras: please advise in advance if travelling with golf clubs or bulky items
- Alternative airports: Kerry Airport (KIR) is about 50 min from Kenmare; Cork Airport (ORK) about 1 h 40 min
FAQ
- Is Kenmare a good base for exploring the southwest?
Yes – it’s perfectly placed for both the Ring of Kerry and the Beara Peninsula, with day trips to Killarney, Glengarriff, and Bantry. - Do you offer return transfers?
Yes – we can provide a fixed-price quote for your return journey, whether the same day or later in your trip. - Is there space for extra luggage or sports equipment?
Yes – please advise in advance if you’re travelling with golf clubs, bicycles, or bulky gear so we can assign the right vehicle.
Book Your Private Transfer
Your driver, your route, your pace—arrive in Kenmare ready to explore Ireland’s southwest in comfort.