Kerry Head
An refreshing cycle on a circuit laden with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and North Kerry Coastline as well as the Dingle Peninsula and County Clare on a good day. This route contains a mixture of flat and hilly countryside and is very well signposted.
Kerry Head – Views towards Loop head and Ballybunion
Stats
| Distance | 48km |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 280m |
| Starting Point | Anywhere in Tralee Town Center |
| Fitness Required | Level 2/3 (See here for our guide to fitness levels) |
| Bicycle Type | Any, but a hybrid or racing bike is recommended. |
| Surface | Paved surface |
| Safety Concerns | The Road between Tralee to Ardfert to Ballyheigue (R551) can be quite busy at times. Those of a nervous disposition when it comes to traffic can begin the loop in Ballyheigue itself. |
Map
Gpx File
Click the following gpx file icon to download this routes directions to your PC or Smartphone. You can use an app like Komoot or Strava to import this file and guide you on this route.
Directions
This route follows the North Kerry Coastline and begins and ends in Tralee. From Tralee take the R551 following signposts for Ardfert and Ballyheigue, reaching Ardfert village after 8km completed. Continue onwards along the R551 noticing signposts for Banna beach to the left if you want to take a short optional detour to look at one of Ireland’s most famous beaches. You will reach the village of Ballyheigue after 16km.
Kerry Head – Ballyheigue
Take a left in Ballyheigue onto the L1033 following directions for Kerry Head. From here the road gently rises along an increasing incline with a beautiful coastline opening with views of Ballyheigue Bay, the Dingle Peninsula and the Atlantic Ocean.
Kerry Head – Atlantic Views of the Dingle Peninsula
As the cycle progresses the road falls and thereafter levels out and heads inland again for a welcome and deserved more gentle cycle back into Ballyheigue. From Ballyheigue take the R551 for a return journey back to Tralee.
Kerry Head – A cottage on the waterfront
Highlights
- Ardfert Cathedral
- Banna Beach – optional detour, follow the signposts off of the main R551 road.
- Roger Casement Memorial – optional detour – follow signposts from near the entrance to Banna Beach.
- Ballyheigue Village
- Kerry Head
- Tobar Daithleann – an optional quick return detour to view the site of a holy well, the patron saint of which is St Daithleann.
Options for Food and Refreshments
There are a number of cafés and shops in Ballyheigue Village which you will be passing twice during this cycle, at 16km and 32km.
Bike Rental
