the kenmare guide 2014

Plan Your Entire VisitWith business listings covering the whole Kenmare Bay

Kenmare GUIDE

Where to StayHotels, Guesthouses, Self-

Catering Rentals & B&Bs

Where to EatAll the best spots to enjoy

our food-lover’s paradise

What to DoAdventures abound when

you use Kenmare as a base

The

2014

April 2014 / Issue 05presented by kenmare.com

2 The Kenmare GUIDE 3

PUBLISHED BYKenmare Creative

[email protected]

EDITOREvan Payne

[email protected]

RESEARCHJane Safieva

[email protected]

PHOTOS & DESIGNEvan Payne

WEBSITEhttp://kenmare.com

The Kenmare GUIDE

Welcome to the fifth year of the

Kenmare Guide. This year we’ve

expanded our listings to cover even

more of the local businesses in and

around our town, and we’ve received

a fair amount of praise for last year’s

new design and focus.

We’ve worked hard to find inter-

esting articles to expose readers to

new places and stories, and to en-

courage locals to branch out and ex-

plore. Thank you for the chance to

share our love of Kenmare!

EDITOR’S NOTE

Evan Payne

Evan Payne, Editor

April, 2014

The greater Kenmare area, around the Kenmare Bay, is the perfect base for your exploration of the southwest of Ireland. Kenmare (also known by its Irish name of

Neidin) is a colorful heritage town that lays

on two noted Irish scenic routes, the Ring of

Kerry and the Ring of Beara.

But its so much more than that. Kenmare

is the sum of the people who live and work

here, and nowhere in the world will you find

as diverse and friendly a population.

This guide should give you an overview and

a brief introduction to the wonderful place

we call home, so you can plan your trip, find

your way, and enjoy your stay in the Kenmare

area.

Welcome to Kenmare, Co Kerry, Ireland


WhereTo

Stay

AroundTown

WhereTo

Eat

WhereTo

Shop

Lifein

Kenmare

WhatToDo

6 Information and More 26 Accommodation & Rest

6 Map - Kenmare Town A map to guide you through town.

8 About Kenmare

All about our Heritage town and what

you should see while you’re here.

12 Wild Atlantic Way

The Kenmare Bay: Take your time

while exploring, there’s a lot to see.

14 Photo Gallery A few select photos.

30 Map - Kenmare Bay A Map covering the greater Kenmare

Area.

18 Hotels & Guesthouses Kenmare has some of the best hotels

in Ireland, unique and welcoming.

20 Self-Catering Holiday Homes When you want the place all to

yourself, these houses will fit the bill.

26 Bed & Breakfasts Ireland is famed for its hospitality, and

the B&B is the best way to see that.

32 Hostels & Camping

Simple is good, and these hostels &

campsites have you covered for a

night’s rest.

Need a Map?We have a nice pullout map in the center of

the guide, covering the Kenmare Bay. 30

About KenmareGet a feel for the town and discover all there

is to enjoy throught the year. 8

34

48

Eat, Drink & Be Merry

Activites & Attractions

42

52

Clothes, Books & More

Living Locally

45 Freshly Kenmare A mainstay of shopping in town is

the Market with lots of local goods.

46 Shopping Kenmare town is full of high quality

shops, with unique products and

styles to suit any budget.

60 Local Services Serving the day to day affairs

66 Telephone Guide A quick reference of important

numbers and places.

37 Kenmare Food Town Some call this the food capitol of

Ireland, and not without reason.

38 Cafés & Bakeries

Tasty treats, tea or coffee

40 Restaurants & Pubs

The best food, & awards to prove it.

50 The Sheen Valley

Discover the village of Bonane.

52 Attractions

There really is something for

everyone, from art to adventures.

58 Walking in Kenmare


Killowen Road (to

Cork)

Sneem Road

Shelbourne Street

Railw

ay R

oad

Hen

ry S

tree

t

Main Street

New Road

Marke

t Stre

et

Bridge Street

Rock Stre

et

Pier Road

Killarney Road

Hospital RoadKenmare Town Map

t

CARNEGIE COMMUNITY THEATRE

TOWNGREEN

TOURIST OFFICE

POLICE/GARDAI

PUBLICRESTROOMS

KENMAREPIER

REENAGROSSPARK & TRAILS

ST. PATRICK’SCHURCH

ADULTEDUCATIONCENTRE

HOLY CROSS CHURCH

KENMARESHOPPING

CENTRE

POST OFFICE

ANCIENTSTONECIRCLE

The Square

Ret

to Glengarrif / Castletownbere

The layout of Kenmare was designed by the original landown-ers of the whole area, and makes for a comfortable town centre. A walk around the streets can take you 10 minutes, or a few hours, depending on how many shops and restaurants you’re enticed into along the way.

98 The Kenmare GUIDE

Among the peaks of Ireland’s highest mountains, where the rivers and streams empty into a bay off the Atlantic, is the town of Kenmare.

Here you’ll find all sorts of peo-ple, bustling about their business in the streets of the market town.The place is a delightful mixture of con-

trasts: Ancient monuments alongside

modern hotels, forested shorelines alongside

vaulted mountains, farmers and shop keeps

alongside musicians and artists.

Its an often used phrase, but one especially

true for Kenmare, that one day is simply not

enough time to experience everything on

offer. Here are just a few activities to whet

your appetite:

Kenmare Lace & Design CentreIn 1864 the Poor Clare nuns in Kenmare set

up a lace production centre, which is still

going strong today.

Reenagross ParkOften called Kenmare’s best kept secret, this

park has 3.2 km of walkways through woods

and along the coast of the Bay.

GolfingBreathtaking views and excellent facilities

will be found at any golf course you visit.

See our listings on page 48.

Kenmare Town

The award-winning town

was laid out in 1670, by

British scientist Sir William

Petty. Throughout the years

Kenmare has preserved

much of its original

identity, and grown to

offer visitors an au-

thentic flavor of Irish

culture, cuisine, music,

shopping, scenery and

leisure.

Walking through town, you

can still see buildings from

centuries ago, and the Stone

Circle is a reminder that the

area has been settled for

many years more than that.

Recently, Kenmare has put

an emphasis on itself as a

cultural centre, with Food,

Music and Art Festivals

throughout the year. This

means that any time is a

good time to visit Kenmare.


The Stone CircleWithin the town is an an-

cient druid circle of stones,

steeped in mystery.

CyclingA range of bicycles can be

found for hire right in town

at Finnegan’s Bicycle Hire.

SwimmingFor the brave, there’s the

Bay, but for the rest of us,

the Kenmare Bay Hotel has

an excellent pool & spa.

FishingPlan a small river fishing

excursion or to get a private

tour of Kenmare Bay,

Horse RidingThere are excellent stables

that offer horse riding les-

sons and excursions.

Sea KayakingAll manner of adventures

can be found out at Star

Outdoors, kayaking included.

Sailing the BayDaily eco-tours and seal

watching with Seafari.

Bonane Heritage ParkAncient history that you can

touch, set within the mag-

nificent Sheen Valley.

Go Back in TimeMolly Gallivan’s cottage and

traditional farm is a chance

to visit an Irish farm exactly

as it was over 200 years ago.

Dereen GardensLocated at Lauragh is this

magnificent water-side es-

tate is full of exotic vegeta-

tion and walks to inspire.

GleninchiquinThis idyllic valley is per-

fectly suited for day outings

with the entire family, with

walks and waterfalls.

The Rings of Kerry & Beara

See more on page 11.

Guided ToursThere are a number of ser-

vices available in Kenmare

to guide you through what’s

on offer. See more on page

53.

Art & Photo GalleriesThere are many artists and

photographers in the area,

and the galleries reflect the

diversity.

The Rings of Kerry & BearaTake your pick, or choose both, there’s lots to explore.

The span of water that

is the Kenmare Bay sepa-

rates two very different

peninsulas. To the north is

the sprawling majesty of

the Iveragh Peninsula, and

to the south is the wilder-

ness of the Beara Penin-

sula. Circling both of these

landmasses are the driving

routes known as the Ring of

Kerry and the Ring of Beara.

The Ring of KerryThe Ring of Kerry is a

179km tourist trail that in-

troduces travelers to the

natural beauty of one of

Ireland’s most picturesque

counties. Stops along the

route include Killarney, Ross

Castle, Sneem, Derrynane

house, The Skellig Islands,

Killorglin, the Gap of Dunloe,

Rossbeigh beach, and lots

of other spots. When tak-

en with a good guide, Irish

meals and music, the tour

becomes absolutely unfor-

gettable.

The Ring of BearaThe Ring Of Beara,

though less well known than

the Ring Of Kerry, is no less

beautiful. If anything the

landscape it displays is more

wild and unruly in its nature.

Bounded by the Kenmare

River and Bantry Bay the

tourist trail is about 195km

long. Stops usually include

Lauragh, The Healy Pass, Ey-

eries, Allihies, Dursey Island,

Bear Island, Castletownbere,

and Glengariff. The country

is wild and the roads are

winding, but the views are

spectacular.

Kenmare, The JewelKenmare is often referred

to as the Jewel in the Ring,

and its up for debate wheth-

er that means Kerry or Beara.

From town, you can pick ei-

ther Ring, and set off for a

day’s exploration, be back in

time for dinner, and try an-

other road again tomorrow.

» Irish weather is fickle,

but the clouds that roll

across the sky shouldn’t

stop you from having

a great day. There’s a

saying about Ireland that

goes, “If you don’t like the

weather, just wait.”

In the southwest of Ireland, all roads lead to Kenmare. It is

a serene little town, snug-

gled up against mountains,

sea and river, concise in its

layout and boundless in its

personality.

The Irish name of Neidin,

or Little Nest, is certainly

apt, given not only how

the town itself is nestled

amongst some of Ireland’s

tallest mountains, but also

given the nurturing nature

of the townspeople that run

the shops, restaurants, and

accommodation.

Using Kenmare as your base

for an exploration of the

southwest of Ireland is an

excellent choice, as you’ll

find so many wildly different

scenes less than an hour’s

drive away.

NorthTo the north of town is the

road to Killarney. The steep

drive brings you through

Moll’s Gap, a pass in the

MacGillicuddy Reeks aka the

Black Stacks, and through

Killarney National Park, with

its storied Lakes.

North westHeading out of town along

the Sneem road puts you

onto the Ring of Kerry.

Here you’ll find the sprawl-

ing beauty of the Iveragh

Peninsula, and lovely towns

like Sneem, Caherdaniel,

Ballinskelligs, and Valentia

Island.

SouthDue south from Ken-

mare is the Sheen

Valley, where you’ll

find Bonane and the

tunnels of the Caha

Pass. Barley Lake

lies this way, on the road

to Glengarriff, Co. Cork, and

onwards to Bantry.

SouthwestThe Ring of Beara, along the

Beara Peninsula, begins as

you head southwest from

town. Along this road you’ll

find some of the wildest and

varied landscapes Ireland

has to offer, and quiet vil-

lages full of beauty, like

Tuosist, Lauragh, Allihies,

Castletownbere & Dursey

Island.

EastKenmare is most often

approached from the east,

so you might think you’ve

already found all there is

that direction. But

take time to visit

Kilgarvan village

and the views as you

enter Kerry for the

first time.

ABOVE

Killmackalogue Harbour with

the Iveragh Peninsula behind

it. The Kenmare Bay fills the

space between two vastly dif-

ferent landscapes.

RIGHT IMAGES

Looking north from Kenmare

to Killarney, the moun-

tains grow in the distance.

Southwards, along the Beara

Peninsula, you can see the

mussel farming in the Bay.

“As I leave behind Néidín It’s like purple splashed on green

My soul is strangely fed �rough the winding hills ahead”

MARY BLACK


Wild Atlantic Way: The Kenmare BayBeauty and adventure in every direction


Explore

Photos

01. Kenmare is a

beautiful market town,

filled with shops and

restaurants.

02. Its easy to

navigate street plan

is perfect for a long

stroll without getting

lost.

03. Henry Street

links the pier to the

town green and the

church beyond it.

Beyond that is the

old road to Killarney

(pedestrian only now),

which crosses the

mountains.

04. Reenagross Park,

only 300m from town

centre, is a tranquil

nature preserve, and

one of the town’s best

kept secrets. Here you

can explore the shore

and the forest and be

back in time for lunch.

05. On a sunny day,

the town is an abso-

lute paradise, with

forests, water, hikes,

kayaks, fishing, and

more. Going outdoors

isn’t required, but its a

lot of fun.

06. On the road to

Sneem, you’ll pass

over the Blackwater

Bridge, but it might

surprise you to look

over the edge and see

just how huge the

bridge really is.

07. Nestled on the

Wild Atlantic Way,

the town offers easy

access to the Kenmare

Bay, which has an

extraordinary marine

life ecosystem.

01

02

03

04 05

06

07


Explore

Photos

08. Kenmare is a

photographer’s para-

dise, with vistas and

landscapes around

every corner.

09. Nature calls, with

hundreds of walks and

cycling routes just

waiting for your feet.

10. Tranquility in

Reenagross Park, with

the Kenmare Suspen-

sion Bridge in the

background. This area

is tidal, and changes

drastically throughout

the day.

11. Kerry is home to

the tallest mountains

in Ireland, and the

varied landscape of

the southwest is a

treat for explorers of

all ages.

12. Kenmare’s

famous suspension

bridge is the official

boundary between

the Kenmare River

that arrives from the

east, and the Atlantic

Ocean via the Ken-

mare Bay.

13. The townspeople

of Kenmare put on a

number of festivals

throughout the year,

making visitors feel

like they’re at home.

14. Wherever you

go here, you’ll feel

welcomed and invited.

The atmosphere is

open and a welcome

escape from the bustle

of the city.

08

09

10

12

13

14

11

Park HotelShelbourne Street,Kenmare, Co Kerry

+353-(0)[email protected]

parkkenmare.com

ListingHenry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-0000

[email protected]

kenmare.com

ParknasillaParknasilla Woods,Sneem, Co Kerry


parknasillaresort.com

Sheen Falls LodgeCrossroads,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)[email protected]

sheenfallslodge.ie


The CoachmansHenry Street,


thecoachmans.com

At a hotel or guesthouse, you can ex-pect a measurable standard of service and excellent presentation.

Where To

Stay

Hotels & Guesthouses

Shelburne LodgeKillowen Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1013

[email protected]

shelburnelodge.com

Davitt’sHenry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2741

[email protected]

davittskenmare.com

Seashore FarmTubrid,


seashorekenmare.com

19

Dromquinna ManorSneem Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2888

[email protected]

dromquinnamanor.com

O’Donnabhain’sHenry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2106

[email protected]

odonnabhain-kenmare.com

Foley’s GuesthouseHenry Street,


foleyskenmare.com

Kenmare Bay HotelSneem Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-667-9300

[email protected]

kenmarebayhotel.com

Lansdowne ArmsMain Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1368

[email protected]

lansdownearms.com

Virginia’s GuesthouseHenry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)86-372-0625

[email protected]

virginias-kenmare.com

Stone HouseNorth Square,

Sneem, Co Kerry+353-(0)[email protected]

guesthousestonehouse.com

Sneem HotelGoldens Cove,

Sneem, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-667-5100

[email protected]

sneemhotel.com


Cedar LodgeTubrid,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1272

[email protected]

tarafarmproperties.com

When you plan to stay a while, its a treat to have a whole house to rest in.

Where To

Stay

Self-Catering /Holiday Homes Dressmaker’s Cottage

Market Street,Kenmare, Co Kerry


kenmare.com/dressmakerscottage

Doire Farm CottagesUpper Clontoo, Kilgarvan,


kenmareholidaycottages.com

Kenmare Fadó CottageGortamullen,


kenmareselfcatering.com

Davitt’s Self-CateringArd Mullen,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2741

[email protected]

davittskenmare.com

21

Fuchsia CottageKillaha East,


fuchsiacottage.net

Harbour View LodgeDawros,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1755

[email protected]

harbourviewlodgekenmare.com

Hawthorn LodgesShelbourne Street,Kenmare, Co Kerry


hawthornlodges.com

Henry Court Townhouse

Henry Court,Kenmare, Co Kerry


kenmare.com/henrycourt

Dan’s CottageGortamullen, Sneem Road,


danscottage.com

Foley’s Ard MullenArd Mullen,


foleyskenmare.com

Kenmare BaySneem Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-667-9300

[email protected]

kenmarebayhotel.com

Bedrock CottageTemplenoe,


kenmare.com/bedrockcottage

Anne’s CottageDireen, Blackwater,Kenmare, Co Kerry


kenmare.com/annescottage

Fisherman’s Lodge6 Reenkilla,

Lauragh, Co Kerry+353-(0)[email protected]

kenmare.com/fishermans


Seascape LodgeTubrid,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1272

[email protected]

tarafarmproperties.com

RockcrestKillarney Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1016

[email protected]

rockcrestselfcatering.com




Kilmurry HeightsKilmurry Heights,Kenmare, Co Kerry


kilmurryheights.com

Shelbourne TownhouseShelbourne Street,Kenmare, Co Kerry


kenmareluxuryholidayhomes.com

Seacrest CottageTara Farm, Tubrid,Kenmare, Co Kerry


tara-farm.com

SeafrontThe Coast Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-668-4203

[email protected]

seafrontholidayhomes.com

Lodgewood CottageGortamullen,


visit-kenmare.com

Maybury CottageTubrid,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2040

[email protected]

mayburycottage.com

Old Stone CottageLauragh,

Tuosist, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-668-3143

[email protected]

oldstonecottage.com

Primrose Cottage1 Davitts Place,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1513

[email protected]

primrosekenmare.com

Oakwood ManorKillowen,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-0600

[email protected]

kenmareluxuryholidayhomes.com

Neidin LodgeLansdowne Estate,Kenmare, Co Kerry


neidinhouse.com

Killaha CoveKillaha,


foleyskenmare.com

Kenmare River Cottages

Killaha,Kenmare, Co Kerry


foleyskenmare.com

Rentals Kenmare5 Main Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1018

[email protected]

rentalskenmare.com

Kenmare Holiday Residences

Sneem Road,Kenmare, Co Kerry


kenmareholidayresidences.com

Kenmare RentalsJer Foley,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)87-243-9304

[email protected]

kenmarerentals.com

Sneem HotelGoldens Cove,

Sneem, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-667-5100

[email protected]

sneemhotel.com


SummervilleGortamullen,


visit-kenmare.com

Star OutdoorsKillowen Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1222

[email protected]

staroutdoors.ie

VillaXLCatharina Verweel,Kenmare, Co Kerry


niceirishcottages.com

Tubrid CottageTubrid,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1272

[email protected]

tara-farm.com

For more listings, and updates throughout the year, visit us online at http://kenmare.com/accommodation/

Bay HouseFeoramore West,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-668-4237

[email protected]

bayhouse-kenmare.com

The FordGlengariff Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2431

[email protected]

thefordkenmare.com

Forgefield HouseRoughty, Cross Roads,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-0493

info@ forgefieldhouse.eu.com

forgefieldhouse.eu.com

Arthur’s Lodge WoodCork Road, Killowen,Kenmare, Co Kerry

+353-(0)64-664-1753

arthurslodgewood.com

BirchwoodCork Road,

Kilgarvan, Co Kerry+353-(0)[email protected]

birchwood-kilgarvan.com

The Brass LanternOld Railway Road,Kenmare, Co Kerry


brasslanternkenmare.com


AshfieldKillowen Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)86-317-9392

[email protected]

ashfieldkenmare.com

Ardmore HouseKillarney Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1406

[email protected]

kenmare.com/ardmore

Ard na MaraPier Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1399

[email protected]

kenmare.com/ardnamara

The Caha’sHospital Road,


cahaskenmare.com

2 Mile LodgeKillarney Road,


2milelodge.com

Abbey CourtKilgarvan Road, Killowen,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2735

[email protected]

abbeycourtkenmare.com

An BruachanKillarney Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1682

[email protected]

bruachan.com

Unlike a guesthouse, with a B&B you are staying in the actual home of your host. True Irish hospitality.

Where To

Stay

Bed & Breakfasts

DriftwoodKillowen Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-668-9147

[email protected]

driftwoodkenmare.com

Druid CottageSneem Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1803

[email protected]

druidcottagekenmare.com


Old Church HouseKillowen,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2054

[email protected]

oldchurchkenmare.com

O’Shea’s FarmhouseKillarney Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1498

[email protected]

osheasceolnahabhann.com

Muxnaw LodgeCastletownbere Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1252

[email protected]

kenmare.com/muxnaw

Rose CottageThe Square,


kenmare.com/rosecottage

Lissyclearig Thatched Cottage

Lissyclearig,Kenmare, Co Kerry


lissyclearigthatchedcottage.com

OakfieldDawros,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1262

[email protected]

oakfieldkenmare.com

Leebrook HouseKillarney Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1521

[email protected]

leebrookhouse.com

River MeadowsCladdanure East,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1306

[email protected]

rivermeadowsbnb.com

Neidin HouseLansdowne Estate,Kenmare, Co Kerry


neidinhouse.com

Mourlin LodgeCastletownbere Road,

Lauragh, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-668-3905

[email protected]

kenmare.com/mourlin

Mountain ViewCastletownbere Road,

Lauragh, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-668-3905

[email protected]

kenmare.com/mourlin

Rockcrest HouseGortamullen,


visit-kenmare.com

Lough Brin HouseBlackwater Bridge,Kenmare, Co Kerry


blackwaterbridge.com/loughbrin

The LodgeKilgarvan Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1512

[email protected]

thelodgekenmare.com

Harbour ViewDawros,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1755

[email protected]

harbourviewkenmare.com

Hawthorn HouseShelburne Street,Kenmare, Co Kerry


hawthornhousekenmare.com

Hillside HavenDoon, Tahilla,

Sneem, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-668-2065

[email protected]

sneem.net/hillsidehaven

Kenmare HouseGortamullen, Sneem Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1283

[email protected]

kenmarehousebandb.com

Tahilla CoveTahilla Cove,


tahillacove.com


SilvertreesLansdowne Lodge,Kenmare, Co Kerry


silvertreeskenmare.com

Water’s EdgeMuxnaw,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1707

[email protected]

kenmare.com/watersedge

ShaminirDawros,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2678

[email protected]

shaminir.com

Tara FarmTubrid,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1272

[email protected]

tara-farm.com

The RosegardenSneem Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2288

[email protected]

rosegardenkenmare.com

Whispering PinesBell Heights,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1194

[email protected]

whisperingpineskenmare.com

White Heather FarmBonane,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1550

[email protected]

whiteheatherfarm.com

In such a beautiful place, you’ll appreci-ate having a simple base that helps you get into the action.

Where To

Stay

Hostels & Camping

Faungorth CampsiteKilgarvan Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1770

[email protected]

kenmarecamping.com

Kenmare Fáilte HostelShelbourne Street,Kenmare, Co Kerry


kenmarehostel.com

Traveller’s Rest HostelCaherdaniel Village,

Co Kerry+353-(0)66-947-5175

[email protected]

hostelcaherdaniel.com

Greenwood HostelSneem Road, Templenoe,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-668-9247

[email protected]

greenwoodhostel.com

Beara CampingCoornagillagh, Tuosist,


bearacamping.com

31

Castletownbere Road - R

571

Sneem Road - N70

Killarney Road - N71Glengariff Road - N71


Moll’s Gap - S

neem Road

Kenmare AreaKenmare Bay Map

SNEEM

BLACKWATERBRIDGE

PARKNASILLA

TAHILLA

KENMARE

DAWROS

BONANE

BONANEHERITAGE

PARK

STARMARINA

KILLMACKILLOGUE

TEMPLENOE

TUOSIST

The Kenmare Bay is 30 miles long, 12 miles wide at its mouth and narrowing gradually as it bisects and separates the Beara and Iveragh peninsulas and their mountain ranges. Due to its shape it is sometimes called the Kenmare River, but its tides fluctuate drasti-cally throughout the day.

To Moll’s Gap & Killarney

To Kilgarvan & Cork

To Glengariff & Bantry

To Lauragh, the Healy Pass & Ring

of Beara

To Caherdaniel & Ring of Kerry

37

aboutfood

Have you been craving a gourmet dining expe-rience? You’ll find that and more in Kenmare

Kenmare is famed for its res-

taurants, indeed several have

won awards for their cuisine,

atmosphere and chefs. A walk

through the streets of town will

bring you by all types of food,

all sourced from local produce

and meats.

For the food enthusiast, Ken-

mare is a dream come true, with

Michelen star chefs, a weekly

farmer’s market, and even a

world-famous somolier’s wine

shop. If you’re hungry, you’re in

the right place!

Kenmare Food Town

“Cooking is like love - it should be entered into with abandon or

not at all.”

HARRIET VAN HORNE

Good food is something to cel-

ebrate, as the citizens of Kenmare

do each year with a stunning

parade.

Being so close to the sea,

it is only natural that

Kenmare would have an

abundace of fresh seafood

at its disposal.

For more listings, and updates throughout the year, visit us online at http://kenmare.com/Dining/


Bookstop CaféBridge Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)87-771-2867

[email protected]

bridgestreetcop.com

The BreadcrumbNew Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-0645

[email protected]

thebreadcrumb.com

Looking for a quick stop for coffee or pastries? These shops will help you with breakfasts, breaks or lunches.

Where To

EAT

Cafés & BakeriesThe Rosegarden Café

Sneem Road,Kenmare, Co Kerry


rosegardenkenmare.com

The Strawberry FieldMoll’s Gap Road, Blackwater,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-668-2977

[email protected]

strawberryfield-ireland.com

The Truffle PigHenry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2953

[email protected]

trufflepigkenmare.com

39Bia Bia

Kenmare Shopping Centre,Kenmare, Co Kerry


kenmareicecream.com

Café MochaHenry Street,


kenmarerestaurants.com/cafemocha

Jam Café6 Henry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1591

[email protected]

jam.ie

Kenmare Ice CreamHenry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)87-2493782

[email protected]

kenmareicecream.com


Charcoal SteakhouseHenry Court,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-0080

[email protected]

charcoalsteakhouse.ie

Substantial fare for an evening out, the restaurants of Kenmare are some of the finest dining in the world.

Where To

EAT

Restaurants

The CoachmansHenry Street,


thecoachmans.com

Packie’sHenry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1508

kenmarerestaurants.com/packies

Con’sStar Outdoors, Dawros,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1222

[email protected]

staroutdoors.ie

Davitt’sHenry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2741

[email protected]

davittskenmare.com

41

Foley’sHenry Street,


foleyskenmare.com

Kenmare BaySneem Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-667-9300

[email protected]

kenmarebayhotel.com

The BoathouseDromquinna Manor,Kenmare, Co Kerry


dromquinnamanor.com

Bella Vita Ristorante18 Henry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-0010

[email protected]

bellavitakenmare.com

The Horseshoe3 Main Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1553

[email protected]

thehorseshoekenmare.com

Mulcahy’sHenry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2383

kenmarerestaurants.com/mulcahys

Park HotelShelbourne Street,Kenmare, Co Kerry


parkkenmare.com

O’Donnabhain’sHenry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2106

[email protected]

odonnabhain-kenmare.com

Lansdowne ArmsMain Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1368

[email protected]

lansdownearms.com




For more listings, and updates throughout the year, visit us online at http://kenmare.com/Dining/

Tom Crean Fish & Wine25 Main Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1589

[email protected]

tomcrean.ie


PF McCarthy’s14 Main Street,


pfskenmare.com

Ring of Kerry Golf ClubTemplenoe,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2000

[email protected]

ringofkerrygolf.com

Purple HeatherHenry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1016

[email protected]

thepurpleheatherkenmare.com

Stone HouseNorth Square,


guesthousestonehouse.com

Sheen Falls LodgeCrossroads,


sheenfallslodge.ie

The Co-opFounded by locals the co-

operative society on Bridge

Street is growing rapidly. At

their shop you can find or-

ganic and local produce, and

their vegetarian café across

the street has only the best

ingredients to work with.

The MarketDuring the warmer parts

of the year, a wonderful

Farmer’s Market takes over

the sidewalks on the Square.

The stalls are filled with

fresh food and products

made by locals, includ-

ing honey from mountain

hives, fish from the bay, and

cheeses from nearby farms.

The ShopsHigh quality local food is

so abundant in Kenmare

that even the shops carry a

large selection. Looking for

fresh milk, cheese, ice cream,

chocolate, meat, fish or veg-

gies? You’ll find it all in the

shops of Kenmare.

LocallySourced

Freshly KenmareEnough cannot be said

about the freshness of Ken-

mare’s produce and meats.

Whether you’re gathering

honey and veggies at the

local Co-op, lamb and steak

from the Butchers, seafood

from the Farmer’s Market,

or bread and milk from the

shops, you’ll know that it all

came from within 50 miles,

and was caught, picked or

made only hours ago.

Knowing your food is that

fresh reminds you that life is

to be appreciated, and that

mindset sets the standard

for the whole town. A day

spent walking through Ken-

mare might seem idle, but

it refreshes and replenishes

some of the key ingredients

you need for your joie-de-

vivre. So grab a bag and get

shopping, you’re sure to find

something fresh in Kenmare.

45


Bridge Street Co-opBridge Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)87-667-9911

[email protected]

bridgestreetcoop.com

Be it furniture, groceries, clothes or something fancy, the shops of Kenmare are bound to have it.

Whereto

Shop

Shopping

Nest4 Henry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1802

[email protected]

nestkenmare.ie

Kenmare BookshopShelbourne Street,Kenmare, Co Kerry


kenmare.com/bookshop

Animal Kingdom18 Henry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2857

kenmare.com/animalkingdom

PFK Gold & SilversmithHenry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2590

[email protected]

pfk.ie

Quills Woolen MarketMain Street,


irishgiftsandsweaters.com

Glenarran Irish MarketHenry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-668-9168

[email protected]

glenaran.com

Mango CraftsShelbourne Street,Kenmare, Co Kerry


mangocrafts.com

Fat Face7 Henry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-8542

fatface.ie

47

SupervaluKenmare Shopping Centre,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1307

kenmare.com/supervalu

CentraKillarney Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1316

kenmare-centra.com

LidlKillarney Road,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1316

kenmare-centra.com

The White RoomHenry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-0600

[email protected]

thewhiteroomkenmare.com

Kenmare LaceThe Square,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2978

[email protected]

kenmarelace.ie

SimplicityHenry Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1389

[email protected]

simplicity.ie


An ancient valley, a modern paradiseFrom start to finish, a memorable visit

Just across Kenmare’s suspension bridge begins the Sheen Valley.

The road stretches along and up into the Caha mountains, but not

before passing through the village of Bonane.

Bonane is a quiet, peaceful place, surrounded by untouched nature.

The locals, well aware of the attractions of their home, are welcom-

ing and engaging, and many events are held in the area through-

out the year. The rhythms of life here are consistent. Spring is

for Lambing, Summer for Growth, Fall for Harvest, and Winter for

Contemplation.

With an active community council, Bonane has recetly developed a

number of cycling routes and walking trails to showcase the stun-

nig scenery while keeping you fit.

Bonane & The Sheen Valley Heritage Area

Generations have thrived here...

The history of the area is also a draw, with ancient monuments and mines that show the valley was settled as far back as the Bronze Age, over 5500 years ago.

The Bonane Heritage Park of-fers a glimpse into how active the valley was, with a stone circle, the mysterious Rolls of Butter, a ring fort, and more. Also worth a visit further up the road is Molly Gallivans, an Irish farm and visitor centre where life is kept as it was over

200 years ago. Tour the farm, learn about breadmaking, or find out the secrets of the illicit home-made whiskey that Molly made.

Whatever you do in the Sheen Valley, its sure to be a great time for all.

For more listings, and updates throughout the year, visit us online at http://kenmare.com/attractions/


Between the galleries, golfing, fishing, walking, horseback riding, and cycling, you’re bound to find a perfect day.

WhatToDo

Attractions

53

Brushwood Studios

Parknasilla Woods, Sneem, Co Kerry


brushwoodstudios.com

Art GalleryCleo Galley

2 Shelbourne Street,Kenmare, Co Kerry


kenmare.com/cleo

Art Gallery & Shop

Carl’s Gallery

Templenoe,Kenmare, Co Kerry


carlsgallery.net

Art GalleryArt & Mór

Kenmare Shopping Centre,Kenmare, Co Kerry


artandmor.com

Paint your own PotteryDromquinna Stables

Sneem Road, Templenoe,Kenmare, Co Kerry


dromquinna-stables.com

Horse Riding & LessonsBlackwater Stables

Blackwater Bridge,Kenmare, Co Kerry


blackwaterstables.com

Horse Riding & Lessons


Eclipse Activity Centre

Dromore Old, Blackwater Bridge,Kenmare, Co Kerry


eclipseireland.com

Horse Riding & Team BuildingFinnegan’s Bikes & Toys

Henry Street,Kenmare, Co Kerry


kenmare.com/finnegan

Bicycle Rentals

Kenmare Golf Club

Killowen Road,Kenmare, Co Kerry


kenmaregolfclub.com

Golf Course & Country ClubKenmare Lace

The Square,Kenmare, Co Kerry


kenmarelace.ie

Lace-Making Museum & Shop

Kenmare School of English

Summer Courses AvailableKenmare, Co Kerry


kenmareschoolofenglish.com

Language SchoolMolly Gallivan’s

Glengarriff Road, Bonane,Kenmare, Co Kerry


mollygallivans.com

Cottage & Traditional Farm

The Purcell Gallery

28 Main Street,Kenmare, Co Kerry


purcellgallerykenmare.com

Art GalleryRing of Kerry Golf Club

Templenoe,Kenmare, Co Kerry


ringofkerrygolf.com

Golf Course & Country Club


River Valley Stables

Lounaghan, Kilgarvan,Kenmare, Co Kerry

+353-(0)87-958-5895

kenmare.com/ rivervalleystables

Horse Riding & LessonsSeafari

Kenmare Pier,Kenmare, Co Kerry


seafari.ie

Tours of the Kenmare Bay

Skyline Gallery



skyline.ie

Art GalleryStar Outdoors

Dawros,Kenmare, Co Kerry


staroutdoors.ie

Marina and Activity Centre


With its many walks and hikes, Kenmare has been described as the “Walking Mecca of Ireland”.

Kenmare has walks for every level of experience.

From a short jaunt around the heritage town,

to a longer ramble through the seashore

landscape, from a short climb up a mountain

peak, to the long distance walks of the Kerry

and Beara Ways.

Hill WalkingFor the hill walker / mountaineer the Caha

and Derrynasagart Mountains lie to the

South and East, while to the North lie the

Dunkerrons and the majestic McGillycuddy

Reeks with lofty Carrauntoohil towering over

all.

RamblingFor the rambler, Kenmare’s enviable posi-

tion allows easy access to both the Beara

and Iveragh peninsulas with Ireland’s two

premier long-distance walking routes, the

Kerry Way and the Beara Way, converging in

the town.

In addition to all this, the

town, a national Tidy Towns

award winner, is big enough

to cater for crowds of tour-

ists and also small enough

to care and offer a

personal touch, also

offers quiet country

lanes, parks, a heri-

tage trail and scenic

river walks where

nature abounds.

Kenmare also hosts one of

Ireland’s premier walking

festivals – during the first

week of June which includes

the British and Irish bank

holiday weekends.

The Kenmare Walking Club

has its own website and is

organising various walks

during the year. Their walk-

ing calendar is updated on a

regular basis and walks usu-

ally start from the Square in

Kenmare.

Walking in Kenmare

Kenmare CreativeEvan Payne,

Web Design & Videos+353-(0)87-150-3689

[email protected]

kenmarecreative.com


Drive KenmareDenis & Mags Griffin,

Taxi & Touring+353-(0)[email protected]

drivekenmare.com

Kenmare Coach & CabDeclan Finnegan,Taxi & Touring


kenmarecoachandcab.com

Kenmare Flower Shop28 Main Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1525

[email protected]

kenmareflowershop.com

Daily life in Kenmare would be tough without these hardworking service providers.

Lifein

Kenmare

Local Services

61

Kenmare Nursing Home

Tír na nÓg, Killaha East,Kenmare, Co Kerry


kenmarenursinghome.com

Craniosacral TherapyJune Durkin, (IABT) BCST


kenmare.com/cranio

Kenmare ToursJohn Finnegan,Taxi & Touring

+353-(0)64-664-1083

kenmaretours.com

Kenmare Veterinary Clinic

Mart Road,Kenmare, Co Kerry


kenmarevc.ie

Brosnan’s Haven Pharmacy



kenmare.com/brosnan

Beara Oil

Serving South Kerry& West Cork


bearaoil.ie

Carnegie Arts CentreShelbourne Street,Kenmare, Co Kerry


carnegieartskenmare.ie

Green MattersJanet Dunlop Hawker

Garden Designs+353-(0)87-229-6357

[email protected]

greenmatters.ie

Kenmare LibraryShelbourne Street,Kenmare, Co Kerry


kerrylibrary.ie

Kenmare House Care

Tim Harrington,Kenmare, Co Kerry


kenmarehousecare.com

Connor-Scarteen5 Main Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1263

[email protected]

connorscarteen.com


Sean Daly Estate Agents

34 Henry Street,Kenmare, Co Kerry


seandaly.com

Start to FinishHouse Cleaning

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)87-792-3244

[email protected]

kenmare.com/start

Pro Bus & CarLuxury Touring andChauffeur Service


probusandcar.com

O’Shea’s Laundromat27 Main Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-0808

[email protected]

osheaskenmare.com

Tommy GranvilleThe Old Forge, Market Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-8777

tgsolicitors.ie

Sheahan’s Pharmacy18 Main Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-1354

[email protected]

sheahanspharmacy.ie

Precious Moments28 Main Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-2578

[email protected]

preciousmomentskenmare.com

McSWEENEY PHARMACY

ADVICE SERVICE GREAT BRANDS FANTASTIC PRICES

We just have it all!We just have it all!We just have it all!We just have it all!Kenmare Shopping Centre, Railway Road, Kenmare Co. Kerry, T: 064 - 66 79 880

COME IN ANDCHECK OUT ALL OUR

SPECIAL OFFERS

EASY PARKING TOO!

SAVE 25% ON MANY FRAGRANCES

DON’T MISS THIS MONTH’S SPECIAL DISCOUNT

ON TOILETRIES

McSweeney PharmacyKenmare Shopping Centre

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-667-9880

kenmare.com/mcsweeney

O’Shea’s Photos & Gifts27 Main Street,

Kenmare, Co Kerry+353-(0)64-664-0808

[email protected]

osheaskenmare.com

67

EmergencySouth Doc

Gardai (Police)Medical Centre

HospitalPost Office

Bank BOIBank AIB

Credit UnionTourist Office

Veterinary ClinicDentist O’Leary

Dentist McCarthy

TAXI SERVICES

Drive KenmareK. Coach & CabKenmare Tours

PHARMACIES

BrosnanSheahans

McSweeny

999 / 1121850-335-999

064-664-1177064-664-1333064-664-1088064-664-1490064-664-1255064-664-1010064-664-2111064-664-1233064-664-2695064-664-2621064-664-1650

087-614-7222064-664-1491064-664-1083

064-664-1318064-664-1354064-667-9880

APR 25 - APR 27Feile NeidinIrish Music Festivalkenmareirishmusicfestival.com

MAY 09 - MAY 11Weekend in KenmarePhotography Celebrationweekendinkenmare.com

AUG 15Market DayLivestock Sale Daykenmare.com/market-day

OCT 26 - OCT 31Halloween HowlKenmare kenmare.ie

NOV 28 - NOV 30Kenmare Choral FestivalKenmarekenmarechoralfestival.ie

NOV 29 - JAN 06Nollaig NeidinKenmare kenmare.ie

APRIL 2015Féile Nedínkenmareirishmusicfestival.com

OCT 2015Kenmare Lace Festivalkenmarelacefestival.ie

Phone Numbers Save the Date

www.Kenmare.COM

Thank you for reading through this year’s

guidebook. It is my pleasure to have helped

you navigate your way through our town, and

I hope you find this book a useful resource

MANY SAFE RETURNS while you’re here. With all there is going on

in Kenmare, some of the information in this

guide is bound to become outdated, so check

out the most up to date information on our

website:



Star Outdoors

the kenmare guide 2014

Documents

love of kenmare

kenmare food town

shopping kenmare town

map kenmare bay

greater kenmare area

hotels guesthouses kenmare

kenmare baykenmare guidewhere

comthe kenmare guidewelcome