Head to head
Ireland's two headline coastal loops. Which is worth the day?
Our pick is the Slea Head Drive.
Checked by the Drivers Atlas desk
Scored and written by the Drivers Atlas editorial desk, drawing on driven routes across the UK and Europe, mapping data and member road reports. Verdicts weigh road quality, scenery, traffic and how likely you are to actually enjoy the drive on the day. How we score roads.
Last reviewed 26 May 2026
The numbers
| Measure | Ring of Kerry | Slea Head Drive |
|---|---|---|
| Drivers Atlas rating | 9.1 | 8.9 |
| Driving score | 8.6 / 10 | 8.3 / 10 |
| Scenery score | 9.5 / 10 | 9.5 / 10 |
| Length | 110 km | 30 km |
| Where | County Kerry | Dingle Peninsula |
| Season | Busy with coaches in summer, drive it anticlockwise early | Very narrow, one way flow advised |
Verdict
Slea Head is shorter, wilder and far less coached. The Dingle peninsula gives you the same Atlantic drama in a tighter, more involving package.
The Ring of Kerry has the greater variety and better places to stay. Drive it clockwise, against the coach direction, and early.