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Ballycarbery Castle Tours
Set atop a grassy pasture overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this crumbling, ivy-covered castle is one of Ireland’s most romantic ruins. The castle, which originally dates back to the 16th century, was damaged during the 17th-century War of the Three Kingdoms. Now, only parts of the structure, such as its high stone walls, remain in place.
The Basics
The castle is relatively undiscovered and is often overlooked by tourists exploring the Ring of Kerry. As the castle is situated on private land and the ruins are somewhat unstable, Ballycarbery is not open to the public. Visitors can, however, park in a nearby lot, where some background information on the castle is provided. Admire the structure from afar, and take photos of the picturesque ruin. Some private Ring of Kerry day tours do make photo stops at the evocative site.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring a camera; the romantic ruins make an excellent photo opportunity.
- Viewing is from the roadside; wear comfortable shoes and rain gear.
- Respect the signs on the fence barring public admission and do not attempt to cross beyond them.
How to Get There
Ballycarbery Castle is about 2 miles (3 kilometers) from Cahersiveen, County Kerry in an area locals call “over the water.” From Cahersiveen, follow Castlequin Road and then turn left when you see the sign for Ballycarbery Castle. Driving here involves navigating narrow country roads, so you may prefer to go as part of a guided tour.
When to Get There
Because of its off-the-beaten-path setting and the lack of public access, Ballycarbery Castle is rarely busy. Even in peak summer season, there’s a good chance you’ll be the only sightseer photographing the structure.
Historic Attractions on the Ring of Kerry
Other historical attractions situated not far from Ballycarbery Castle include Leacanabuaile Fort and Cahergall Fort; these ancient stone forts are less than 5 minutes away from the castle ruins by car. The castle is also just a short drive from Valentia Island, home to the Skellig Experience Visitor Centre, and the Daniel O'Connell Memorial Church in Cahersiveen, which is named after the 19th-century Irish political leader and campaigner for Catholic emancipation.
Address: Cahersiveen, Ring of Kerry, Ireland
6 Tours and Activities to Experience Ballycarbery Castle
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Private Sightseeing ToursPrivate Tour:Ring of Kerry,Skellig Ring,Kerry Cliffs and Valentia from Killarney
Customize your own itinerary and discover southwest Ireland’s breathtaking natural beauty on this private Ring of Kerry tour from Kilkenny. Follow your private guide along hiking routes around the Iveragh Peninsula. Visit pretty towns and villages including Cahersiveen and Kenmare, and discover top local attractions such as the Torc Waterfall. Enjoy panoramic cliff views along the Skellig Ring and hike to top spots like Valentia Island and Cahergall Fort. During your private tour, feel free to stop where and when you like!
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- 6 to 8 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
US$57.15
Private Sightseeing ToursPrivate Tour:Ring of Kerry,Skellig Ring,Kerry Cliffs and Valentia from Kenmare
Discover spectacular scenery in southern Ireland and choose the route to match your interests on this private Ring of Kerry tour from Kenmare. Explore the mighty Iveragh Peninsula with your private guide. Take in top landmarks such as Ballycarbery Castle, Cromwell's Bridge, Muckross House, the Skellig Ring, the Stone Circle and Valentia Island. Admire the medieval forts of Cahergall and Leacanabuiaile, and discover pretty villages like Cahersiveen, Killorglin and Sneem. During your private tour, stop where you like and make the most of your time on the Emerald Isle.
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- 8 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
US$81.68
Private Sightseeing ToursRing of Kerry Private Tour from Killorglin
Marvel at some of Ireland’s most beautiful landscapes on this private Ring of Kerry tour from Killorglin. Head deep into the Iveragh Peninsula with your private guide and discover famous landmarks including Cahergall Fort, Leacanabuiaile Fort and Ballycarbery Castle. Pass through quaint villages such as Kenmare, Sneem and Waterville, and enjoy an altogether more relaxed pace of life in the Irish countryside. Admire top attractions like the Torc Waterfalls and Cromwell's Bridge, and enjoy the freedom to plan your own route with your private guide.
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- 8 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
US$77.50
Private Sightseeing ToursRing of Kerry Private Tour from Sneem and Parknasilla
Discover top attractions and hidden jewels on the Emerald Isle on this private Ring of Kerry tour from Sneem and Parknasilla. Delve into the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula with your private guide. Take in top landmarks such as the medieval fortresses of Cahergall and Leacanabuiaile, the Torc Waterfalls, Ballycarbery Castle and Cromwell's Bridge. Explore pretty villages like Cahersiveen, Killorglin and Sneem and enjoy a pace of life far removed from the city. During your private tour, stop where you like and make the most of your time on Ireland’s Iveragh Peninsula.
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- 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
US$77.50
Private Sightseeing ToursPrivate T:Ring of Kerry,Skellig Ring,Kerry Cliffs and Valentia from Cahersiveen
Choose your own route through the Emerald Isle and hit the highlights you want to see on this private Ring of Kerry tour from Cahersiveen. Explore the Iveragh Peninsula with your private guide and discover top landmarks such as Ballycarbery Castle, Cromwell's Bridge, Ross Castle, the Skellig Ring, the Stone Circle and the Torc Waterfalls. Marvel at the medieval fortifications of Cahergall and Leacanabuiaile, and pass through quaint towns such as Kenmare and Waterville. Take the Coomakista Pass for spectacular views, and enjoy the freedom to stop wherever you’d like.
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- 8 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
US$77.50
Day TripsLIKELY TO SELL OUT
Off the beaten Path Private Tour of Ring of Kerry
What better way to see the 'Ring of Kerry' than with a local experienced and licensed native guide who loves sharing her passion for her native land. Sit back and listen to the fascinating stories that go with territory. Spend most of your day in the 'off the beaten path' tracks where the coaches cannot go and which have the most spectacular of all the scenery.
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- 8 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
US$450.85
per group
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