Killarney’s stunning landscapes have long captivated visitors, offering a breathtaking tapestry of valleys, passes, and the majestic Reeks. Now, a unique tour promises to immerse travelers in this captivating region, combining scenic exploration with personalized photography instruction. Led by a local expert, the ‘Ring of the Reeks – Backroads Rural Tour’ promises an intimate, nine-hour adventure through Ireland’s rural beauty, complete with a delightful lunch and ample opportunities to capture the essence of this enchanting landscape. For those seeking to discover Killarney’s hidden gems through the lens of a camera, this tour may just be the perfect way to…
Key Points
- This 9-hour small group tour (max 5 participants) showcases the scenic valleys and passes around Ireland’s highest mountain, the Reeks.
- The tour is led by an English-speaking local photographer and guide, providing ongoing photography tuition and guidance.
- Highlights include exploring Glencar, Bridia Valley, Ballaghbeama Gap, and the captivating Black Valley, with photo stops at scenic lakes and panoramic vistas.
- The tour includes transportation, a picturesque lunch in Kenmare, and convenient coffee breaks in charming villages.
- The tour is suitable for adults aged 13 and above with a moderate fitness level, and personalized photos are taken by the guide during the tour.
Tour Overview
The ‘Killarney: The Ring of the Reeks’ tour is a backroads rural excursion that showcases the scenic valleys and passes surrounding Ireland’s highest mountain.
Priced at €265 per person, the 9-hour small group tour (limited to 5 participants) is led by an English-speaking local photographer and guide.
Pickup is available from any location in Killarney or at the Killarney Tourist Information Centre.
Highlights include photography tuition, scenic stops at lakes, ruins, and panoramic vistas, as well as breaks for lunch in Kenmare and coffee in villages.
The tour covers the Glencar, Bridia Valley, Ballaghbeama Gap, Black Valley, and the iconic Gap of Dunloe.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kerry.
Experience Highlights
Participants on the Killarney: The Ring of the Reeks tour can expect a photography and sightseeing experience led by a local photographer and tour guide. They’ll explore scenic valleys and passes around Ireland’s highest mountain, the Reeks, with ongoing expert tuition and tips to enhance their photography skills. The tour includes photo stops at scenic lakes, atmospheric ruins, and panoramic vistas, with a lunch break in Kenmare and coffee breaks in villages throughout the day.
| Photography Highlights | Tuition Highlights |
|---|---|
| Scenic lakes | Expert guidance |
| Atmospheric ruins | Composition tips |
| Panoramic vistas | Lighting advice |
Tour Itinerary
The tour departs Killarney in the morning, heading towards the scenic Glencar, Bridia Valley, and Ballaghbeama Gap regions surrounding Ireland’s highest mountain, the Reeks.
During the journey, participants can capture breathtaking photographs of the rugged landscapes, rolling hills, and enchanting lakes.
After exploring these scenic valleys and passes, the group enjoys a lunch break in the charming town of Kenmare.
In the afternoon, the tour ventures into the captivating Black Valley before returning through the iconic Gap of Dunloe.
Throughout the day, the knowledgeable guide provides ongoing photography tips and tuition to help participants enhance their skills and capture the essence of the stunning Irish countryside.
Inclusions
The tour package includes transportation in a comfortable minibus, providing participants with a hassle-free way to explore the scenic regions around Killarney.
Plus, the expert guide offers ongoing photography tips and tuition throughout the day, helping participants enhance their skills and capture stunning images using their own cameras or phones.
Group rates are available, and the tour is suitable for adults aged 13 and above.
The tour’s inclusions also feature:
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Personalized photos of participants taken by the guide during the tour
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Convenient coffee breaks in charming villages along the way
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A lunch break in the picturesque town of Kenmare to refuel and recharge
Booking and Cancellation
Booking the tour is easy, with the option to reserve a spot without any upfront payment.
Cancellations are also hassle-free, as participants can receive a full refund by cancelling up to 24 hours in advance.
This flexible booking and cancellation policy ensures that travelers can plan their trip with confidence, without worrying about unexpected changes.
Interested you can check the tour’s availability and select their preferred starting time and number of participants.
Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a small group, the tour offers a seamless booking experience to suit your needs.
With these convenient options, you can focus on anticipating the exciting photography and sightseeing adventure that awaits.
Getting to Killarney
Getting to Killarney couldn’t be easier, with the town accessible via a variety of transportation options. Visitors can arrive by car, bus, or even train, making it a convenient starting point for the Ring of the Reeks tour.
Driving to Killarney is a popular choice, with the town well-connected to major roads like the N71 and N22. Ample parking is available throughout the town, including at the Killarney Tourist Information Centre where the tour departs.
Travelers can also take the train, with direct services from Dublin, Cork, and Limerick. The Killarney station is just a short walk from the meeting point for the tour.
For those preferring public transportation, the town is served by a network of bus routes, including the Killarney Shuttle which connects the main sights.
What to Bring
To make the most of the Killarney: The Ring of the Reeks tour, participants should bring a few essential items. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the tour involves exploring scenic valleys and mountain passes. Plus, bringing a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning landscapes is highly recommended, as the tour guide will provide tips to enhance photography skills along the way.
The table below outlines some essential items to pack for the tour:
| Item | Reason |
|---|---|
| Rain jacket | Changeable weather in the Irish countryside |
| Water bottle | Stay hydrated during the day-long tour |
| Snacks | Fuel up between photo stops and the lunch break |
| Hat and gloves | Prepare for cooler temperatures in the mountain areas |
Participant Information
The tour is suitable for all participants aged 13 and above, as the terrain and activities may not be appropriate for younger children. Participants should have a reasonable level of fitness, as the tour involves moderate walking and exploring uneven terrain in the scenic Irish countryside.
Some tips to help participants enjoy the tour:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changes in weather.
- Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning landscapes and photo opportunities.
- Stay hydrated and bring any personal snacks or dietary requirements to ensure a comfortable experience.
The group size is limited to 5 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate tour through the stunning Ring of the Reeks region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Photographers of All Skill Levels?
Yes, the tour is suitable for photographers of all skill levels. It provides ongoing expert tuition and tips to enhance photography skills, making it accessible for beginners and experienced photographers alike.
Can I Request a Private Tour or Custom Itinerary?
Yes, you can request a private tour or custom itinerary. The tour operator offers flexible options to accommodate individual needs and preferences. They’re happy to work with you to create a tailored experience that fits your interests and photography goals.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?
Yes, the tour operator offers group rates for parties of 2 or more. Plus, they provide the option to reserve a spot without upfront payment and allow free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment or Do I Need to Rent?
Participants are encouraged to bring their own camera equipment for the tour. The tour guide provides ongoing photography tips and tuition to enhance participants’ skills using their personal cameras or phones.
How Much Time Is Spent at Each Photo Stop During the Tour?
The tour allows ample time at each photo stop, with the guide providing ongoing photography tips and guidance. Participants can spend as much or as little time as needed to capture the scenic vistas and landscapes.
Recap
The ‘Killarney: The Ring of the Reeks – Backroads Rural Tour’ offers an immersive experience through Ireland’s stunning landscapes, led by a local photographer and guide.
Participants can enjoy personalized photography tuition while exploring picturesque locations, including Glencar and the enchanting Black Valley.
With a maximum of five participants, the tour ensures an intimate experience, complete with a delightful lunch and ample opportunities for breathtaking photography.
You can check if your dates are available here: