If youre camping in County Kerry with a campervan, youre in for a journey through some of Irelands most awe-inspiring landscapes and ancient sites. Kerry holds the longest stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way, packed with rugged cliffs, hidden beaches, and windswept islands. Where else can you wake up near a 6th-century monastery on Skellig Michael, explore the stone walls of Muckross Abbey, or stand inside the perfectly preserved Gallarus Oratory all before heading to the beach?In Kerry, you can drive from misty mountain passes to golden beaches in a single afternoon, kayak through ancient lakes, or follow routes walked by monks and pilgrims over a thousand years ago. This makes Kerry one of the best places to visit in Ireland, or at least a must on your bucket list!Below, youll find unmissable stops to make your trip unforgettable, each paired with a nearby campsite, so youre never far from a stunning view or a slice of history.If you dont have it yet, you can hire a campervan and start your adventure with everything you need on four wheels.Unmissable Stops on Your Campervan Adventure Around KerryYou can drive from misty mountain passes to golden beaches in a single afternoon, kayak through ancient lakes, or hike routes walked by monks and saints a thousand years ago.If youre camping in County Kerry with a campervan, these are the stops that will make your trip unforgettable and weve paired them with nearby campsites so youre never far from a place to pull up, rest, and take it all in.Below are some stops you can make on your campervan trip. Each one is within easy reach of a great campsite so you can wake up with these wonders right outside your door.Skellig Michael & the Skellig Coast (near Wave Crest Caravan Park, Caherdaniel)Rising straight out of the Atlantic, Skellig Michael is an ancient island monastery that looks like something out of a dream (or Star Wars, if you prefer).Climb stone steps carved 1,500 years ago and explore beehive huts once home to monks living on the edge of the world. In summer, puffins and seabirds nest here, adding life to this rocky outpost. Not up for a landing? Boat trips around the island offer jaw-dropping views, and when night falls, the Kerry Dark Sky Reserve nearby promises a galaxy of stars like youve never seen.Slea Head Drive & The Blasket Islands (near Campail Teach an Aragail, Dingle Peninsula) (h3)For a campervan route that feels like the edge of the earth, head for Slea Head Drive a cliff-hugging loop of ancient ruins, beehive huts, and crashing Atlantic waves.On clear days, youll see the Blasket Islands, where a hardy community lived until the 1950s. Stop at The Blasket Centre to hear their stories, or take a boat to Great Blasket Island and wander its hauntingly empty village keep an eye out for seabirds skimming the cliffs.Killarney National Park & The Kerry Way (near Priory Glamping Pods & Fossa Caravan Park, Killarney)If you want to see Kerry at its most lush and legendary, Killarney National Park has you covered.Think mirror-like lakes, thundering waterfalls, and Irelands tallest mountains. Torc Waterfall, Muckross House, and the magical Gap of Dunloe are just some highlights. You can hike a stretch of the Kerry Way, kayak across the lakes, or take a lazy drive and maybe just maybe spot Irelands last wild red deer.Glenteenassig Forest & Maharees Beaches (near Sandy Bay Caravan Park, Castlegregory) (h3)Looking for a quieter corner? Glenteenassig Forest Park is a hidden gem, with tranquil lakes and walking trails tucked beneath misty peaks.Back at the coast, the Maharees Peninsula has miles of golden beaches, perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply watching the waves. On lucky days, you might even catch a glimpse of seals sunning themselves on the rocks a proper welcome from Kerrys wilder side.Ready to plan your campervan adventure?And if youre dreaming of cooking a gourmet campervan dinner with a sea view or breakfast beside a misty lake, Kerrys campsites have you covered, with campervan-friendly cooking areas, BBQ spots, and shared kitchens to make life on the road easy.Below are some of the best County Kerry campsites, placing you right next to these amazing experiences.Top Camping Sites Kerry Has to Offer for Campervan AdventuresWhether youre chasing ocean views, forest retreats, or a cosy base near Killarney, Kerry has a pitch for you.Weve gathered some of the best spots from north to south covering Killarney, the Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, and Maharees so you dont have to.All you need to worry about is which way to point the van (and maybe where to find the best pint after a day of adventuring). Oh, and of course, dont forget to pack for your campervan trip!Priory Glamping Pods and Guest Accommodation, KillarneyA cosy and stylish stop just outside the buzz of Killarney town, Priory Glamping Pods offer a peaceful retreat with all the comforts of home. Perfect for campervanners who want a touch of luxury without straying too far from nature.Location: Tucked away on Muckross Road, only 900 m from Killarney town centre.Type: Modern glamping pods with private entrances and charming garden views.Campervan parking: Private on-site parking is available, including space for campervans no advance booking is needed.Facilities: Kitchenettes, outdoor BBQ, picnic area, and a crackling outdoor fireplace.Nearby attractions: Muckross Abbey, Ross Castle, and Torc Waterfall are all within easy reach.Ideal for: Couples and travellers who want a quiet, well-equipped base to explore Killarneys stunning landscapes.Wave Crest Caravan & Camping Park, CaherdanielPerched along the iconic Ring of Kerry, Wave Crest Caravan & Camping Park is a family-friendly, coastal haven that makes the most of Kerrys wild beauty. Whether youre in a campervan or tent, this site offers breathtaking sea views and top-notch facilities for a comfortable stay.Location: Right on the Main Ring of Kerry Road, in Caherdaniel, overlooking the Atlantic.Type: Spacious caravan and camping park, perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers.Campervan parking: Ample on-site parking for campervans, with secure access via a barrier system.Facilities: Shop, caf (summer months), tourist info office with maps and fishing gear, paid WiFi, and dog-friendly grounds.Nearby attractions: Derrynane Beach, Derrynane House, and Staigue Stone Fort are all within a 5-mile radius.Ideal for: Families, nature lovers, and anyone chasing coastal views and outdoor adventures.Sandy Bay Caravan Park, CastlegregorySet on the stunning Maharees Peninsula, Sandy Bay Caravan Park is a peaceful, beachside campsite with direct access to the sand ideal for laid-back campervan stays by the sea. With a reputation for spotless facilities and friendly hosts, this is a great spot to unwind and explore the best of County Kerrys coastline.Location: In Maherabeg, The Maharees, just 0.5 miles from Castlegregory town centre.Type: Family-run caravan park with easy beach access only a 50 m stroll to the shore.Campervan parking: Spacious, on-site parking for campervans, right by the beach.Facilities: Modern showers and toilets, dog-friendly, and close to local pubs and restaurants.Nearby attractions: Glenteenassig Forest Park, Original Kerry Craft Centre, and The Green Room Bar.Ideal for: Beach lovers, families, and anyone seeking a relaxed coastal escape with great hospitality.Fossa Caravan & Camping Park, KillarneyA spacious and welcoming campsite, Fossa Caravan & Camping Park is a favourite for families and couples looking to explore Killarney and the Kingdom of Kerry. Nestled in a wooded area with views of the MacGillycuddy Reeks, its the perfect base for outdoor adventures.Location: In Fossa village, 5 minutes walk to Lough Leane, and just outside Killarney.Type: Well-established caravan and camping park, with hostel accommodation on-site.Campervan parking: Large hard-core slots with electric hook-up, plus separate tent area.Facilities: Modern sanitation blocks, drying room, shared kitchen, pet-friendly, and bus stop directly at the entrance.Nearby attractions: Falconry Kerry, Celtic Steps show, and Escape Killarney are within 4 miles.Ideal for: Families, couples, and anyone seeking a relaxed, well-equipped base close to nature and town.Campail Teach an Aragail, Gallarus (Dingle Peninsula)A peaceful and authentic campsite on the Dingle Peninsula, Campail Teach an Aragail is perfect for those seeking a quiet base near Slea Head and Dingle town. With basic but spotless facilities, this spot offers a genuine camping experience surrounded by stunning landscapes.Location: In Gallarus, about 10 minutes drive from Dingle town, close to the Slea Head Drive route.Type: Small, family-friendly campsite for tents, campervans, and caravans.Campervan parking: Hardstanding pitches available, with BBQs allowed on pebbled areas (not on grass).Facilities: Campers kitchen, washing machine and dryer (3), showers (1), small play area for kids, and pet-friendly.Nearby attractions: Slea Head Drive, Kilmalkedar Church, Dingle Crystal, and Kingdom Falconry.Ideal for: Campers and families seeking a peaceful, scenic stay close to Dingle and the coast.And remember, this land stays stunning throughout the year, and if you are more of a winter or autumn type, you can always check out some campsites in Ireland open all year round.Whether your itinerary consists of rugged coastal adventures, mountain hikes, or peaceful lakeside mornings, camping in County Kerry lets you experience it all from the comfort of your campervan. Now that you know where to go and where to stay, all thats left is to hit the road. Kerrys calling and your perfect campervan pitch is waiting.If you want additional peace of mind, read up on our ultimate campervan safety tips and carry on with ease and confidence!The post Camping in County Kerry: Campervan Routes, Campsites, and Sites You Cant Miss appeared first on Craic N Campers.

RV Rental vs. Hotels & Flights

Theres something truly magical about exploring the great outdoors with little adventurers in tow. Whether its splashing in puddles, scrambling up rocky trails or discovering hidden woodland dens, getting outside with kids is always an adventure. But as any hiking parent knows, the right gear can mean the difference between a joyful outing and a chilly, miserable one.I recently asked my fellow hiking community on our Hiking with Kids Facebook Group and over on Instagram for their top gear recommendations for outdoorsy kids, and they came through with some absolute gems! A massive THANKYOU to everyone who contributed! I love our hiking family community! Getting outdoors with kids is all about making memories, and having the right gear makes those experiences even better. Now, lets dive into the top recommendations from the hiking community! P.S This page contains affiliate links. If you click and purchase, I'll earn some cuppa money, which I promise to drink while continuing to create content for you. I only ever recommend products that I personally love and use myself. BaselayersA good baselayer is essential for keeping kids warm and dry, wicking moisture away from their skin while providing a cosy foundation for layering. Whether its a crisp autumn morning or a frosty winter day, the right baselayer ensures they stay comfortable no matter the adventure.Merino wool is the ideal fabric for baselayers, keeping your little one the right temperature all year long. I personally love Smalls Merinino and Polarn OPyret for baselayers! My absolute go to is Dilling for merino base layers both the boys wear these pretty much every day, I love them for lots of reasons, they keep the boys warm, I love the colours they come in and its not recommended to wash them unless soiled so saves on washing too! - Tasha @theunoutdoorsmum Weve used Polarn O Pyret base layers since my eldest was a baby, and now both kids wear them for hiking and playing outside. The quality is fantastic - they stay warm without overheating, and theyre really durable. Ive also heard great things about Small Merino for soft, ethical merino wool layers. - Sam, Hiking with Kids UK Member My go-to for kids base layers is Dilling. Their merino wool tops and leggings are brilliantsuper soft, breathable, and they regulate temperature so well. Plus, they last ages, even with all the outdoor adventures! I also love that they dont need frequent washing, which is a huge win. - Laura, Hiking with Kids UK Member MidlayersMidlayers help trap body heat, adding that extra bit of insulation on colder days. From fleece pullovers to merino wool tops, the right midlayer makes a huge difference in keeping kids warm without overheating. The best options are breathable, easy to move in, and can be taken on and off quickly when temperatures change.The Midlayer is important on those cold winter hikes and will help your child stay insulated and warm. Fleece is a great option here! Lily had the H&M Fleece Onesie and absoloutely loved it! We also shop at Dilling and Polarn OPyret for midlayers! Ives really struggles with being cold so getting warm clothes is an absolute must, he has a really thick Columbia fleece thats been amazing. Heath has also used a Columbia bunting for this winter which I cant fault its great for layering underneath and always keeps him warm. Also reversible so 2 looks for the price of 1! - Tasha @theunoutdoorsmum Spotty Otter gear is fab. I love the Frugi Snuggle Suits for my baby on top of his clothes and for my older girl on none rainy days. - Rachel, Hiking with Kids UK Member My son is 7 months old and were currently loving an old vintage Mountain Equipment Polartec red fleece onesie - it has a double zip feature which is a must when changing babies ready to get outdoors, and has fold over mittens and foot warmers, plus a hood! - @teenytrails (Parent and Baby Walks) Waterproofs & OuterwearA wet child is a cold (and often unhappy) child, so investing in quality waterproofs is non-negotiable. From puddle-proof trousers to storm-ready jackets, having the right waterproof layer ensures outdoor fun continues no matter the weather. The best ones are breathable, fully taped, and built to withstand serious downpours.We currently have the Regatta Puddlesuit that Lily loves - and is great value! This year we have used Polarn o pyret and didricksons both I think are super popular brands and I know why they have been great for the boys who love splashing in water no matter the temperatures! - Tasha @theunoutdoorsmum Regatta for outdoor trousers. Literally the only outdoor trousers we've ever had for kiddo that have been able to withstand anything, including scrambling and climbing rocks. They still look practically new a year later!! - Amy, Hiking with Kids UK Member Muddy Puddles or Polarn OPryet for hiking waterproofs - we do a lot of mountain hikes so need waterproofs that will resist winds and all day wet weather and have found these fab.- Laura @mama.hikes.mountains Kidunk clothing - they are British and really economical. Kept Ives warm and dry all winter last year I love that the jacket and the trousers can be zipped together or worn separately. - Tasha @theunoutdoorsmum Didriksons for waterproofs! We accidentally bought way too big and they lasted from age 2 to age 5 and a bit, and took a serious hammering. They cope really well with falls without ruining the material and are a dungaree and coat rather than all in one, so if its not rainy you can use just the dungarees as mud protection!- @HappyCaterpillar34 r/UKhiking thread on Reddit We have just stuck with polarn o pyret as it's worked for us. But I think my number one advice is don't spend money on something you don't want them getting muddy or well worn! The best gear is the one that gets you outside more! - Nicci @wefouradventure (Scottish Outdoor Family Adventures) AccessoriesSometimes, its the little things that make or break an adventure. Hats, gloves, neck warmers, and even thermal socks all help keep kids comfortable in unpredictable weather. Bonus points for mittens that actually stay on and hats that dont constantly fall over their eyes! For the baby I'm also loving the Maxomorra hats and balaclavas for cold winter forest school days. - Rachel, Hiking with Kids UK Member We learned early on that if they get too cold, that's a real mood killer, so gloves, buffs and hats that stay in their hiking bags (so they don't get taken to school and lost) are essential.... Lightweight kids' binoculars are good. The older one has a small compass, just to get him used to finding his orientation.- @everythingscatter r/UKhiking thread on Reddit Osprey Talon Jr Rucksack for day hikes and what we used on the Coast to Coast (admittedly I carried it more than Id like to admit!)- Paul, @OlliesDadventures FootwearCold, wet feet can end an adventure before it even begins. The right footwear depends on the seasoninsulated boots for winter, waterproof hiking shoes for wet conditions, and lightweight trainers for summer scrambles. Whatever the choice, comfort, grip, and durability are key. Peter Storm Broadoak Mid Walking boot were really comfortable and fine for most reasonable conditions and Zamberlan Quantum Goretex boots which we managed to pick up for a steal at Gaynors of Ambleside. A step up in terms of rigidity and waterproofing.- Paul, @OlliesDadventures Footwear is the main thing we buy brand new for ours. Always Decathlon boots or shoes. We let them choose the model, but footwear is something I'd always want them to try on before buying and using. They have tried waterproof and non-waterproof and neither has really been better or worse.- @everythingscatter r/UKhiking thread on Reddit Footwear we use bogs for Heath and sorel snow boots for Ives both with merino wool socks to keep them toasty! - Tasha @theunoutdoorsmumFootwear wise, I've had them out in Decathlon stuff But I keep coming back to Salomon. They do a range of Speedcross kids shoes that are often to be found cheap, don't wear quickly (your eldest will outgrow them with tonnes of wear left, leaving a perfect hand me down) and they're just as good as their adult equivalent shoes as far as I can tell.- @runner_1005 r/UKhiking thread on Reddit CarriersEven the most adventurous kids get tired, and a good child carrier can make all the difference. Whether youre tackling longer hikes or just need an emergency backup for tired legs, having a comfortable and supportive carrier can keep the adventure going without stress.If your baby is under 6 months, youll need a soft carrier for your hikes. Always ensure the carrier offers an ergonomic design that supports the baby's natural hip and spine development, provides proper head and neck support, and has breathable fabric to prevent overheating. My favourites are the Baby Bjorn One Air and the Ergo Baby Omni 360.If youre hiking with a toddler, youll be wanting a more structured backpack carrier. We use the Deuter Kid Comfort Active and absolutely love it. Id recommend this carrier if youre on the slightly shorter side and also looking for a lighter carrier. Ergo Baby Omni 360 - Our first long-distance hike as a family was a special milestone, and we couldnt have done it without our trusty, durable baby carrier. From the time Miles was just **2 months old** to now at **15 months**, this carrier has been with us every step of the way - supporting him and making our adventures possible. Its amazing to see how far weve come together! - Genre, @lifeadventurefam Osprey Poco Plus for the carrier as it has an adjustable back so both me and my partner can use it comfortably and it has tonnes of storage!- Laura @mama.hikes.mountains I love our tula explorer, I have a two bare feet changing robe that zips up round baby. Likely not the best choice for a long hike but good for exploring.- Rachel, Hiking with Kids UK Member The Deuter kid carriers are brilliant, if you've got the fitness and if the kids take to them. One of mine came to a grudging acceptance of being cooped up in there, the other didn't (but ended up doing some punchy fells like Steel Fell etc much earlier as a result.)- @runner_1005 r/UKhiking thread on Reddit Osprey Poco Plus for carrying him round as a baby - really secure, sturdy and comfortable for both adult and child. - Paul, @OlliesDadventures They are both too old for a carrier now, but when they were younger we used a Deuter one (not sure of the model) and it was great. Really supportive and a great mesh back so it was comfortable even in summer.- @everythingscatter r/UKhiking thread on Reddit How to Make Outdoor Gear More AffordableOutdoor gear for kids doesnt have to cost a fortune! With how quickly they grow, it makes sense to look for pre-loved options or budget-friendly finds. Sites like Vinted, Facebook Marketplace, and outdoor gear swaps are goldmines for great deals. Plus, hand-me-downs from family and friends can be a fantastic way to keep kids kitted out without breaking the bank. As someone else said, Vinted is a good place to start. But Decathlon also do a great range of technical gear in kids sizes. For the eldest I always just splashed out for half-decent stuff, and it means the youngest rarely needs new gear. But I would absolutely buy second hand if I needed something I didn't already have, the amount of use most kids get out of technical gear is minimal.- @runner_1005 r/UKhiking thread on Reddit In terms of clothing, basically everything is second hand from Vinted. Just whatever outdoor brands to be honest. Tons of lightly used Regatta, Mountain Warehouse, Karrimor, etc gear to be had really cheaplythey just outgrow stuff really quickly. Plus, the number of miles you'll be putting in is limited by little legs, so their stuff tends not to get worn out Most of the stuff bought for the older one has been passed down to the younger with no issue.- @everythingscatter r/UKhiking thread on Reddit We've saved a fortune by checking local Facebook Marketplace groups and Vinted. Youd be surprised how many people sell barely worn Polarn O Pyret or Spotty Otter layers for a fraction of the price. Also, keeping an eye on end-of-season sales from brands like Decathlon and Mountain Warehouse can mean big savings on waterproofs and base layers.- Rachel, Hiking with Kids UK Member Final ThoughtsInvesting in the right outdoor gear for kids makes all the difference when it comes to keeping them warm, dry and comfortable on adventures. Whether you opt for high-quality brands, second-hand bargains, or a mix of both, having the right layers means you can focus on making memories rather than worrying about the weather.If you're preparing for your next family hike, be sure to check out my Hiking with Kids Checklist for a full rundown of essentials. And if you're heading out with a little one in tow, my guide on What to Pack When Hiking with a Baby has everything you need to make the journey stress-free.Wherever you're off to next, happy hiking!

Garmins range of inReach satellite communicators have established themselves over the last decade as a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts for staying in touch globally with two-way text messaging, location tracking and SOS emergency response services.The latter function is vital to people travelling in remote regions, and allows users to trigger an SOS message to the Garmin Response international emergency coordination centre, where trained staff are available 24/7 to respond to SOS messages, track devices, and coordinate with emergency services or others to dispatch assistance.Garmin have just released stats from 2024 showing where in the world inReach SOS functions were triggered, and what activities were being done at the time they were triggered. Lets take a dive into the data!LocationsThe locations of SOS incidents reflect the 100% global Iridium satellite network, the broad use of inReach technology and the Garmin Response teams ability to make speedy connections with emergency resources. In 2024, inReach devices were used during natural disasters, including hurricanes, flash floods and wildfires.Responses varied from local police and ambulance services for remote car accidents to highly technical helicopter rescues on Mount Everest. Responses from New Zealand to Norway to Chile to Morocco were coordinated for bike accidents, snake bites, stranded boaters, avalanched snowmobilers, lost hikers, injured climbers and more.Breakdown of the activities users were doing when they pushed the SOS buttonActivitiesThe activity breakdown for SOS incidents in 2024 highlights the many ways inReach users use their device. Though hiking/backpacking and driving/motorcycling were still the biggest categories, there were increases in two very different activities: dirt biking and rafting. Other increases came from camping and mountain biking, while seasonally we see upticks in certain activities such as snowmobiling and backcountry skiing/snowboarding in the winter, boating in the summer and hunting in the autumn.Other top activities for SOS triggers included climbing/mountaineering, off-roading, paddle sports and cycling.2024 saw an increase in the number of SOS incidents triggered for the actual user, but nearly half were still triggered for a party member or third-party individual.Graph shows the reasons that users reached for their inReach deviceMore info: www.garmin.com

Wild places charity the John Muir Trust has relaunched its popular John Muir Award revamped and updated in time to encourage young people to put down their devices and get out enjoying the wonders of wild places this spring and summer. The John Muir Trust is the UK charity dedicated to the protection of wild places and the Award is a key aspect of its work; engaging people in learning about the importance of wild places and how to protect them.David Balharry, CEO of the John Muir Trust said:More than half a million people have achieved a John Muir Award since it first began. Its learner-led approach provides an inclusive way of encouraging everyone to learn about the benefits of wild places. The Award sets the bar for accessible conservation learning and is a lynchpin in the academic year for schools, outdoor centres and a host of other providers across the UK.The John Muir Award was first launched 27 years ago and is hugely respected for providing inclusive, learner-led, outdoor, education experiences. Having been paused for around ninemonths to allow the team to focus on its re-design, the Award is now more sustainable, while retaining its ethos of inclusivity and all the principles and activities which make it so popular.As part of the updating process, the John Muir Trust team consulted extensively, engaging with the more than 1,200 organisations that have historically delivered the Award to participants. Many fresh ideas emerged, including how to make the Award more efficient to run and sustainable for many years ahead.John Muir Trust visitor centre in PitlochryThe Award operates in wild places all over the UK and its principles are just as relevant for smaller, wild spaces in more urban areas as for remote landscapes, because conservation and the protection of wild places are at its core.It is also well known for its inclusive element. Most participants complete their Award as part of an organised group with a leader from organisations including schools, community groups, and outdoor learning centres. The Award can be completed in a self-guided capacity by families and individuals. Theres no upper age limit and adults are encouraged to get involved too.The John Muir Award encourages everyone to get outside, discover and enjoy the wild places on their doorstep and beyond.More info at johnmuirtrust.org/award

Rab athletes Thea Kopala Rhme and Lisen Strm embark on an epic four-day ski touring mission across a remote arctic peninsula in northern Norway. Impressed by the scenic mountain and untracked terrain, they find their way between lofty peaks and crystal fjords.Read the full story here: https://rab.equipment/basecamp/odysseDiscover the Khroma ski collection. //Womens: https://rab.equipment/womens/ski-moun //Mens: https://rab.equipment/mens/ski-mounta #TheMountainPeople #WeAreRab

I like to set myself goals and challenges. I find keeping my mind focussed on a particular priority helps with my general wellbeing. My current ambition is to climb the 40 highest mountains in Ireland. One of my previous challenges was completing the Belfast Marathon.In this article, I am going to give a breakdown of []The post Belfast Marathon Route appeared first on Wild Irish Walks.