Wild Atlantic Way: Kerry Cliffs on the Ring of Skellig (County Clare)

The Kerry Cliffs in County Clare are located just 3 km outside the village of Portmagee on the Ring of Skellig. They not only provide fantastic views of Skellig Island and Puffin Island but also spectacular views of the imposing cliffs, which rise 305 meters above the roaring and wild Atlantic Ocean.

They were formed 400 million years ago in a desert environment and are a great alternative to the world-famous Cliffs of Moher. Do you have better weather than we did? Then pack your binoculars or zoom lens and catch spectacular glimpses of the famous Puffin Island and the truly impressive Skellig Rocks, which is one of only three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ireland. These are one of only three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ireland.

Are you traveling on the Ring of Kerry? Make sure to stop here.

Kerry Cliffs are widely accepted as the most spectacular cliffs in Kerry.

The cliffs are open daily from 9:30 AM to 7 PM. The last entrance is at 6:30 PM. Check the official website to see if admission is possible, as it may be closed during storms.

Plan for at least 1 hour for your visit. If there are Puffins here, you might stay longer.

Admission costs 4 Euros.

There is a large parking lot that should have enough space. The path to the Kerry Cliffs

is about 300 m uphill along a paved path. Along the way, you'll pass beehive huts, which got their name from their shape. They testify that Ireland has been inhabited for thousands of years. There are signs everywhere pointing to the Kerry Cliffs, and the path is clearly visible. The edge of the cliffs is fenced off for safety reasons.

There are informational boards throughout that educate you (in English) about the cliffs and nesting birds. Is the weather good? Then take a good look with the binoculars: Occasionally, in addition to seagulls, you can also spot Puffins. If it's storming and raining, as it was during our visit, the chances are next to none.

You can also camp with a caravan, RV, or tent at the parking lot and exclusively on the cliff. According to the owners, the bathrooms are open 24 hours a day. We stayed at a campsite nearby (Wave Crest Caravan & Camping, highly recommended).

You can also camp with a caravan, RV, or tent at the parking lot and exclusively on the cliff. According to the owners, the bathrooms are open 24 hours a day. We stayed at a campsite nearby (Wave Crest Caravan & Camping, highly recommended).

The village of Portmagee is known as the gateway to the famous Skellig Islands. There are two islands: the smaller one, known as Little Skellig, and Skellig Michael, which became famous for its appearance in Star Wars. Little Skellig is closed to the public and is home to a massive gannet colony (about 30,000). Skellig Michael rises over 230 meters and features an ancient monastery, a lighthouse, beehive huts, and stunning landscapes. Our tour was canceled due to storms. If you're driving, Portmagee is the ideal place for your accommodation.

The rooms in this B&B are very modern and tastefully furnished. You will feel comfortable as soon as you arrive. Ideal for exploring the Kerry Cliffs and the Skellig Islands.

View it here on booking.com

The Valentia View B&B in Portmagee offers ocean views, family rooms, and a simple breakfast. The location is great for exploring the region.

View or book accommodation here on booking.com

We recommend always packing a rain jacket and rain pants. The weather on the coast can change rapidly. While we've often seen umbrellas, they are useless because the wind is too strong.

For me, the Kerry Cliffs definitely rank among the most beautiful highlights of the Ring of Kerry in southwest Ireland. We visited them in pouring rain. As long as you wear the right clothing, you can enjoy this highlight in Ireland even in rainy weather.

Skellig Ring, Foilnageragh (link to Google Maps)

More highlights from our road trip in Ireland will follow soon.

I hope you enjoyed this article and found it helpful in answering your questions. If you have any ideas or questions, we would love to hear your comments here on the travel blog.

If you have no questions: We still appreciate your feedback and that you share the article with friends or save it on Pinterest. You will find the tips again later.

Want to always receive the best travel and insider tips? Then follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Threads or subscribe to my newsletter to receive regular updates and exclusive tips.

♥ Do you like my tips? Say thanks with a coffee ☕️

My articles are the result of intensive research, personal experiences, and honest recommendations - completely without AI. I write them so you can plan your travels stress-free and with genuine, tested tips.

If you like my work and just want to say thank you, I would appreciate a small tip in my virtual travel fund. Every contribution helps me continue to create high-quality content for you independently and passionately. Thank you!

Trust is important: In some of my articles, you'll find affiliate links. If you book or buy something through one of these links, it doesn't cost you anything extra - but I receive a small commission. This way, you can support me without any extra effort and help me keep this blog alive. Thank you for being part of my community and sharing my passion for authentic travel!