Travel time: Year-round
The Ring of Kerry, located on the Iveragh Peninsula in Southwest Ireland, is defined by a marine west coast climate (Cfb under the Köppen classification). This region is famously described by locals as having "little climate but a lot of weather," referring to the high variability of daily conditions within a relatively narrow, mild temperature range year-round.
The weather is heavily influenced by the North Atlantic Current, an extension of the Gulf Stream. This warm current ensures that temperatures rarely reach extreme highs or lows. However, the peninsula is also the first point of contact for Atlantic weather systems, making it one of the wettest regions in Ireland. Rain is a constant companion, occurring on more than 200 days per year, often appearing as a fine, misty drizzle known locally as "mizzle."
Weather in the Ring of Kerry is notoriously capricious; it is common to experience "four seasons in one day." A morning of bright, clear sunshine can rapidly transition to heavy rainfall and wind, only to return to blue skies an hour later. Visibility changes just as quickly, with sea mists often rolling in from the Atlantic to blanket the coastline and mountains in minutes.
The topography of the Ring of Kerry creates significant microclimates. The inland areas near Killarney, sheltered by mountains, can be several degrees warmer than the exposed Atlantic coastline. Conversely, the "Skellig Ring" and towns like Waterville feel the full brunt of oceanic winds. Perhaps the most famous microclimate is found at Glanleam Gardens on Valentia Island, where the lack of frost allows sub-tropical plants such as South American tree ferns and Mediterranean palms to thrive outdoors.
Locals have a high tolerance for rain, viewing it as the source of the region's lush beauty. When the sun does break through, the air feels exceptionally fresh due to the lack of pollution and the heavy oxygenation from the surrounding forests and sea.