It’s all very well being surrounded by mountains, rivers, and oceans, but it’s a bit of a waste if you don’t get out on them. Kerry is truly the playground of Ireland for anybody with an interest in the outdoors. Here are just some of the activities you can get up to in Ireland’s adventure capital:

Triathlons

Maybe you do a bit of running and take the bike out for a spin at weekends. Now all you have to do is work on your swimming and you’re ready to try a triathlon! Ease yourself into the sport with a sprint distance (750m swim, 20km cycle, and 5km run) or a even try-a-tri (250m swim, 10km cycle, and 3km run). Hardman Events runs triathlons of all distances, as well as running events in the stunning surroundings of Killarney National Park, Valentia Island, and the Dingle Peninsula.

Climbing

Fancy climbing Ireland’s highest mountains? Or maybe you’ve done it before and you’d like to try scaling it a different way? Kerry is home to some of the country’s tallest and most challenging peaks, from the craggy heights of Carrauntoohil and the McGillycuddy Reeks to the coastal majesty of Mount Brandon. It’s not a good idea to attempt to climb any unfamiliar mountain on your own, so arrange the trip with an experienced guide. Kerry Climbing is one of the companies you might want to check out. If you are heading out to tackle one of our Kerry peaks, make sure you have the proper footwear, clothes, food, and equipment, and never set off without telling somebody where you are going.

Surfing

It’s hardly a secret that Kerry has some of the most impressive surf spots you’ll find anywhere (although the surfing fraternity like to keep some of them to themselves!). From Inch to Castlegregpry, the coastline is studded with spectacular surfing beaches. The Dingle Peninsula has some fantastic, but notoriously unreliable, waves. Most are centred around Brandon Bay on the north side, but you can always head to Inch on the other side if they let you down. Although Inch Reef seldom breaks, it said to be one of Ireland’s longest waves. For beginners and wetsuit hire, there are surf schools at Inch and in Castlegregory.

Kayaking

You can be as adventurous as you like when it comes to kayaking. Whether you like the idea of a quiet paddle among the ducks on Lakes of Killarney or you’re drawn to the thrill of white-water kayaking on the rugged Glencar rivers, there’s a water adventure for you in Kerry. You’ll find qualified instructors at the Cappanalea OETC, as well as several other independent operators. As with any outdoor adventures, never go out alone and ensure you are properly equipped.

Coasteering

For true adrenaline junkies, coasteering is the ultimate way to immerse yourself in the majestic Atlantic Ocean. Mor Active Tours and Wild Water Adventures are two Kerry companies that organize coasteering in the north and south of the county You’ll be supplied with a wetsuit, helmet, and buoyancy aid before diving into the sea for swimming and rock climbing. Test your nerves by leaping from jumping platforms into the sparkling seas. Now, that’s an adventure!