30 things to do in Kenmare

This year at Sheen Falls Lodge, we are celebrating our 30^th year as proud members of Relais & Chateaux, and we would like to share with you our top 30 things to do on your next visit to Kerry.

1. Plan a day trip to one of the many scenic locations on our doorstep. The Beara Peninsula 30-mile-long area that borders the counties of Cork and Kerry. It offers stunning views, hiking, water sports, and Europe’s oldest working cable car.
2. Take in the views with a round of Golf at Ring of Kerry Golf Club, and enjoy a refreshing drink or light bite afterwards in the newly renovated clubhouse, Nua Vista.
3. Take a night-time kayaking trip, with many options available in Kenmare. See the water sparkle with bioluminescence as you glide through the peaceful waters. Tours start approximately 30 minutes before sunset.
4. Sample the unique flavours of Irish ice cream at Kenmare Ice Cream. Handmade in Kenmare using milk and cream from a local Kerry dairy, enjoy a treat during your visit and sample one of the many flavours here.
5. A visit to Tom Crean Brewery is a must. Learn the story of Tom Crean, Ireland’s famous Antarctic explorer. Tom Crean’s granddaughter Aileen runs this authentic experience with a restaurant and on-site brewery.
6. Get active at Stars Outdoor Adventure Centre in Kenmare. The adventure centre includes a floating activity island, with a rope swing, catapult, trampoline and climbing bars. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, you can choose between crazy golf and archery or test yourself with a challenging obstacle course.
7. Hike the Old Kenmare Road – the route forms part of the ‘Kerry Way’, a spectacular long-distance trail that winds its way around the Iveragh Peninsula. The section of the Kerry Way from Kenmare to Killarney is one of the best-loved parts of the Kerry Way and it’s not difficult to see why.
8. Enjoy a Horse and carriage trip. Climb aboard and take a trip back in time, as you settle in to experience the countryside at a gentle and traditional pace. Channelling the days of old, this romantic horse-drawn experience is a popular way to take in the Sheen Falls Estate and its surroundings.
9. Visit Garnish Island and its subtropical gardener’s paradise. Starting with a boat trip from the mainland to the island, you will pass by the area’s colony of seals, before arriving to the protected island.
10. Indulge in the world of chocolate at Lorge Chocolatier in Kenmare and Bonane. Offering one-day beginner courses, you can discover the chocolate-making process for mousse, ganache and truffles and enjoy a tasting of your work afterwards.
11. Take a walk in Reenagross Woodland Park in Kenmare. The park is a wooded peninsula set within the beautiful landscape of Kenmare Bay. It was originally developed as a private park by the first Marquis of Lansdowne. Here you will find 3km of walking trails to choose from and views over Kenmare Bay.
12. Visit Gleninchaquin Park with hiking or strolls to choose from, not to mention the spectacular waterfall and working farm on the grounds.
13. Spend the day exploring Kenmare and its many hidden gems. Kenmare town is home to beautiful boutiques, gift shops, artisan food suppliers, arts and crafts and more. Spend the day wandering the colourful street and enjoy a little retail therapy.
14. Come and meet a skilled border collie on a real working farm where you’ll watch these clever dogs herding a flock of sheep on the Iveragh Peninsula. In spring, there are new baby lambs on-site, and in summer hands-on sheep shearing demonstrations too.
15. Visit Derreen Garden, full of rare and exotic plants, garden enthusiasts will love this harbourside 19th-century garden. Over 60 acres on the Beara Peninsula, it’s a haven for wildlife, with magical views of the sea and Caha Mountains.
16. Visit the Ring of Kerry. No visit to County Kerry would be complete without taking in the incredible Ring of Kerry which is 179km / 111 miles. Whether you drive, hike or cycle, the views promise to surprise you at every turn and panoramic view.
17. If you have time, take a detour and pre-book a boat trip out to the UNESCO World Heritage site Sceilg Mhichíl (Skellig Michael) off the coast of County Kerry.  The area was also a Star Wars filming location, along with Ceann Sibéal in Ballyferriter, West Kerry.
18. Head off on a private escorted trip with your own driver-guide to explore the magnificent countryside in southwest Kerry. Alongside favourite trips to the Beara Peninsula, the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula why not let your local driver-guide escort you off the beaten track to discover the hidden Kerry gems close to Sheen Falls Lodge.
19. Experience a food tour of Kenmare where you will embark on the town’s many dining experiences and sample the unique culinary flair available, from bakeries to award-winning restaurants.
20. Discover Killarney National Park with 10,000 hectares of wilderness, encompassing the three Lakes of Killarney and the mountains and woods which surround them. The park is wonderful for day trips, hiking, strolling and picnics. Here you will find the historic Muckross House, a 19th-century mansion and gardens.
21. Visit the Gap of Dunloe whilst exploring the Killarney National Park and find out why it is one of the regions most popular visitor routes.  This narrow mountain pass is a magnificent touring point where you will take in the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range in the west and from Purple Mountain in the east.
22. The valleys of Moll’s Gap offer some of the most impressive scenery on the Ring of Kerry route. Located between Kenmare and Killarney, Moll’s Gap has an impressive panoramic view of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range. Moll’s Gap is the highest point on the Ring of Kerry with a 235-metre climb.
23. Kennedy’s Pet Farm and Activity Centre is a popular day trip for families and animal lovers alike. Situated outside Killarney, the open farm has many areas to explore and friendly animals.
24. Kenmare Farmer’s Market takes place every Wednesday in the town square. The lively market is packed with local specialities including homemade honey, vegetables and fresh fish. Admire the stalls and pick up a special reminder of your holiday in Kenmare.
25. Travel further afield to the bustling town of Dingle,  this popular seaside town is home to a wonderful aquarium and many independent cafes, award-winning restaurants and vibrant bars.
26. An hour from Kenmare, you can discover Inch Beach. This beautiful beach is popular with water sports including surfing, kayaking, windsurfing and kite surfing
27. Experience authentic Kerry seafood.  During your visit, you will have ample opportunity to sample the local, plentiful Kerry seafood. From exquisite smoked salmon, oysters, and steamed mussels to an indulgent seafood platter to share. Renowned for its flavour and its freshness, the local seafood is the ultimate feast during your visit.
28. Visit Bonane Heritage Park located a short distance from Kenmare.  The heritage park has many archaeological areas and routes to explore.
29. Enjoy a boat trip through Kenmare Bay, looking out for seals, eagles and other native species. Exploring along the beautiful Iveragh and lesser-travelled Beara Peninsula is popular with families and groups.
30. Visit the Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve.  This is the only Gold Tiered Reserve in the Northern Hemisphere. On clear moonless nights, this area of South West Ireland offers mesmerizing views for stargazing.

After your adventures in Kerry, it’s time to retreat to the comfort of our luxurious rooms, carefully designed to ensure your upmost comfort. Colour schemes which complement the abundant nature from each window and plush furnishes will enhance your relaxation and your visit to Sheen Falls Lodge.