Must do activities

Kenmare has many must do activities and fifty of them are listed below. Kenmare is a walkers' paradise and caters for every level of walking enthusiast. The Kenmare Walking club has its own website where you can find details of walks and walking events planned for the year. Many walks are possible in the area and are well signposted. The famous Kerry Way is amongst them.

There are 2 golf courses in Kenmare, the Kenmare Golf Club, which is located in town next to the prestigious Park Hotel and The Ring of Kerry Golf and Country Club, located 5 miles out of Kenmare on the road to Sneem.

Kenmare Bay Diving, Seafari Cruises and Star Outdoors, Accommodation and Adventure Centre offer much entertainment for all the family. Also, you get to see the areas surrounding Kenmare and you might spot some seals. The scenery seen from the water is stunning and breathtaking - well worth a visit.

Dereen Gardens is at Lauragh and is a magnificent water-side estate, full of unusual shrubs, trees and plants. There are a number of named walks to explore with subtropical vegetation all around and beautiful views at ever turn. There’s also a tea-shop to relax in after your exertions. -
Water-Skiing is just one of the water pursuits available a mere ten minutes’ journey from Kenmare at Star Outdoor, Accommodation and Adventure Centre. All the equipment is the latest available and experienced instructors ensure your safety at all times. - Phone: 064 66 41222 More Info
Pitch and Putt and give all the family a go, at Faungorth Activity Centre on the Killgarvan
Road. It’s a beautifully situated activity centre with mountains overlooking the activity areas. Lots of other sport and leisure pursuits are available here too. - Phone: 064 66 41770
Play the Fiddle whether you’re a novice or a concert violinist! At Kerry Fiddles you can take an Irish fiddle holiday, with a planned itinerary including lessons and free time for sightseeing. All playing ability levels are accommodated. - Phone: 064 66 42387 More Info
Pancakes on the mountain is known as ‘the biggest little treat in Kerry’ and are the speciality of The Strawberry Field pancake restaurant, near Moll’s Gap. The restaurant offers a big range of delicious savoury and sweet pancackes, each named after a local area. You can also buy interesting and original wrought-iron work, and plaster designs here. - Phone: 064 66 82977 More Info
Sailing the Bay is a must when you visit Kenmare. Seafari runs daily Eco tours from the pier lasting around two hours and Star Outdoors, Accommodation and Adventure Centre operate from their pier at Dawros. Find the seals in their natural habitat and enjoy the informative, commentary and refreshments on board.
Seafari 064 66 83171 More Info
SOAAC 064 66 41222 More Info
- Phone: 064 66 83171
Orienteering means exploring and finding your way with just a compass and map co-ordinates, across often remote terrain. It’s offered at Star Outdoor, Accommodation and Adventure Centre under the guidance and supervision of professional team-leaders. - Phone: 064 66 41222 More Info
The Mass Rock at Baurearagh is hidden away across a river and high up among forestry below the N 71 Glengarriff Road. It’s a place where the Catholic Mass was secretly celebrated in penal times. A priest caught saying mass there was once taken and executed in front of his congregation. Mass is still celebrated there each year in commemoration of its history. Details and directions from
Molly Gallivan’s. - Phone: 064 66 40714/41455
Afternoon Tea at Sheen Falls Lodge overlooking the Sheen Falls themselves or at The Park Hotel overlooking the Roughty River and suspension bridge, is one of life’s 5 star luxurious indulgences. Out on the veranda under a sunshade on a fine summer’s day or warm and cosy inside by the fire during winter, it’s afternoon tea in style!
Sheen Falls Lodge 064 66 41600 More Info
The Park Hotel 064 66 41200 More Info -
Walking in the mountains around Kenmare is one of the most rewarding activities you
could imagine. Every step seems to bring a different view and there are many fantastic routes of which ‘The Kerry Way’ is one. The Kenmare Walking Club
website will provide more details. -
Wine Tasting With Alain Bras, one of Ireland’s top celebrated wine experts. Tastings can be serious or fun depending on the group and the occasion. A great way to celebrate a birthday, pre-wedding party or other special event. This is a unique way to surprise the guest of honour or simply to increase your knowledge on wine, in a relaxed atmosphere in the remarkable town of Kenmare, with a multi-award winning wine lecturer. Wine tastings are for approx. 2 hours and include a selection of fine wines specially chosen for your group by Alain Bras and an assortment of canapés can be provided. - Phone: 064 664069 More Info
Salmon and Trout Fishing is possible in many locations around Kenmare. There are 3 salmon rivers and at least 5 lakes stocked with trout. For information, permits and fishing equipment contact John O’Hare in Main Street. - Phone: 064 66 41499
Cycling is the ideal way to really experience the atmosphere, sights and scenery and a range of bicycles for hire can be found at Finnegan’s Bicycle Hire at the top of Henry Street. Book in advance by e-mail or when you arrive in town. - Phone: 064 66 41083
Sea Diving is safe, exciting and fun. You can explore the secret sub-aquatic world of the Bay under the guidance of professional divers from Kenmare Bay Diving. Located at the spectacular Kilmackillogue Harbour, KBD will supply you with all the gear and equipment you need. For complete beginners or seasoned pros. - Phone: 087 699 3793
Kayaks small sailboats, canoes and many other water-related crafts and pursuits can be found at Star Outdoors, Accommodation and Adventure Centre just ten minutes out of town on the Castletownbere Road. Water activities are offered with experienced instructors and state-of-the-art equipment. Safety is paramount. - Phone: 064 66 41222 More Info
Market Day is every Wednesday in Kenmare. The stalls and traders appear early in the morning each Wednesday and soon there’s a busy, bustling atmosphere around the square as people inspect the produce. There’s a great range of locally- produced and international products, artefacts and antiques. -
The Heritage Park at Bonane is a fascinating place to visit. It’s steeped in archeological history, well laid out and signed. In fact Bonane Heritage Park is such a success for the small community that established it, that it won the national ‘Pride of Place’ competition in 2008. The Park is located about seven miles out of town and is signposted from the N71 Glenngarriff Road. - More Info
Visit the Highest Pub in Ireland called appropriately enough ‘Top of Coom’ because it’s perched high on a mountain in Kilgarvan named Coom. There have been some challengers for the title but this is the real McCoy – it’s 121 feet higher than its nearest rival and has Ordnance Survey approval for its claim. Cameras are a must on this trip, for the landscapes and to prove you’ve been there! - Phone: 064 66 85373
Mud Surfing Action and adrenaline… with mud at no extra charge! Why not let Eclipse Activity Centre drag you around a field at 20KM/hr on a modified surf board with a 650CC Honda ATV Quad Bike… this unique activity will have you begging for more! - Phone: +353 (0) 64 6682965 More Info
Kilmackillogue is an enchanting harbour comprising a pub/B&B, a pier, a few houses and fantastic views out across the water. It’s just down the road from Direen Gardens in Lauragh - the pub food is excellent, the atmosphere and ambiance on a summer’s day is unequalled and the craic, mighty. - Phone: 064 66 83014
The Rolls of Butter is the local name for a distinctive multi-bullaun stone, situated adjacent to the Drom-Fiachna Cemetary in the townland of Garranes. It’s one of the most significant Stone Age monuments in western Europe. Bonane, the parish in which
this stone is found, has a wealth of history and informative tours can be arranged from Molly Gallivan’s. - Phone: 064 66 40714/41455 More Info
Pottery making demonstrations and indeed courses are available at Anam-Cre Arts Centre which is located in a very peaceful location not far from Kenmare town. In the creative atmosphere of Anam-Cre [which means ‘world of clay’ in Irish], you can design, make and fire your own pieces. Booking is essential though. - Phone: 064 66 41849 More Info
Raft Building ...a great activity for groups! Construct a craft at Eclipse Adventure Centre that will provide access to the lake’s islands in pursuit of treasure… Especially popular for schools & clubs and kid’s birthday parties. - Phone: +353 (0)64 6682965 More Info
Rinn na Gcros Park was laid out as an idyllic oak island just 3 minutes from town by Lord Lansdowne in the early 1900s. It’s a beautiful walk by the water which leads you out into the middle of the Roughty River with of course, beautiful views in every direction. -
Beauty and Well-Being is the speciality of The Secret Garden, Kenmare’s premier beauty and well-being destination. It’s a beauty salon with a broad range of facial and body treatments. The Secret Garden offers you discreet, low key luxury indulgence. - Phone: 064 66 42691 More Info
Pamper Yourself at Kenmare Wellness Resort. It’s a unique fitness facility - a subterranean labrynth of relaxation and luxury. You can pamper yourself with all manner of state-of-the-art treatments from flotation therapy and cryotherapy to lymphatic drainage, saunas and massage. - Phone: 064 66 48080 More Info
Adopt a Sheep at the Kissane Working Sheep Farm with around 1,000 sheep and lambs. Watch sheepdog and shearing demonstrations and have a go at shearing yourself! There are mountain walks and a Treasure Trail for kids. Kissane’s is at Moll’s Gap. - Phone: 064 66 34791 More Info
Golf is synonymous with the natural beauty of south west Ireland and there are two beautifully appointed 18 hole courses in Kenmare. Kenmare Golf Club is right there in town with fairways at the water’s edge and The Ring of Kerry Golf and Country Club a few miles out of town on the Sneem Road enjoys an elevated, spectacular position high above Kenmare Bay. Both clubs welcome non-members.
Kenmare GC 064 66 41291
ROK GC 064 66 42000
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Hill Walking is organised from Star Outdoors, Accommodation and Adventure Centre. There’s a beautiful hill walk behind the Centre which links up with the Kerry Way. As always at SOAAC, your safety is paramount so experienced walkers are on hand to advise or accompany hill walking participants. - Phone: 064 66 41222 More Info
The Heritage Centre is located at the rear of the Tourist Office in the Square and explains in words and pictures the history of modern Kenmare since it was established by Sir William Petty around 1670. Kenmare Heritage Centre is well worth a visit.
Its opening hours coincide with those of the Tourist Office and are seasonal. - Phone: 064 66 41233
Archery can be fun at the Faungorth Activity Centre and there’s lots more to do there too! Pitch and Putt, Tennis, Fishing, Camping - the list goes on! - Phone: 064 66 41770 More Info
Touring around Kenmare brings you to some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. The town is a perfect base from which to experience all that the south west of Ireland has to offer and Kenmare Coach and Cab with 60 years’ experience, provides guided tours in appropriate vehicles for small or large groups. Probus, another local touring specialist, also offers ‘The Porsche Experience’, a 4 wheel drive carrier which allows guests to sample the lesser known byways of the area – tracks which other vehicles may not be able to negotiate
KC&C 064 66 41491
Probus 064 6642500
- More Info
Sea Fishing and river fishing is the business of Kenmare Angling and Sightseeing which is ideal for the smaller group or for those who prefer to plan their own excursion. Small, private tours of Kenmare Bay can also be arranged. Your knowledgable skipper will inform you as you sail. - Phone: 087 259 2209 More Info
Head for Cloonee Lakes at Gleninchaquin and climb the mountain to enjoy the spectacular views of the lakes below and the Kenmare River and Iveragh Peninsula beyond. There’s a teahouse there too for a cuppa after your efforts. The signpost indicating Gleninchaquin is about eight miles out of town on the Castletownbere Road. -
Rowing Boat Hire is easy up at Cloonee Lakehouse. It’s a Bed & Breakfast, restaurant and bar up at Tuosist where you can hire rowing boats and enjoy a lazy sail on the nearby lake after which the Lakehouse is named. Following an hour or two bobbing on the water, you’ll be ready for some refreshments inside. - Phone: 064 66 84205 More Info
Lace is a commodity for which Kenmare is justifiably famous since the Poor Clare nuns first established a lace room at their convent in 1864. Now the tradition is maintained at Kenmare Lace and Design Centre of the Courthouse Building in the Square, where you can watch demonstrations and buy lace products. - Phone: 064 66 41491 More Info
Spa Treatment at the 5 star Park Hotel in their SAMAS Spa - recently voted among the top ten destination spas in Europe by Conde Nast Traveller. This place has the lot…..pamper yourself in the spa pool, beauty room, fitness suite and a range of lifestyle classes. Call The Park Hotel but be aware that your appointment will be made, subject to availibility. - Phone: 064 66 41200 More Info
Go back in time at a very attractive old homestead in a stunning position on the N71 in Bonane. Its name is Molly Gallivan’s Cottage and Traditional Farm and you’re invited to enjoy an audi-visual presentation explaining how life was lived years ago and tour the cottage which is furnished exactly as it was when Molly Gallivan lived there. Next you can visit the craft shop with its beautiful selection of locally-made pottery and gifts and have a bite to eat in Molly’s kitchen. - Phone: 064 66 40714/41455 More Info
Clay Pidgeon Shooting can be organised through Sheen Falls Lodge – one of Kenmare’s two 5 star hotels. Just ring the Sheen Falls health club on the number below to book your shoot. - Phone: 064 66 40003 More Info
Go to the Theatre in Kenmare at the town’s newly established Carnegie Arts Centre. There’s a broad selection of events to be found on its schedule, with something for all ages and interests - concerts, plays, films and exhibitions. - Phone: 064 66 48701 More Info
Chocolate Making at ‘Bonane’s Chocolate Factory’ is well worth a visit. Lorge Chocolatier is the name of the business and Benoit Lorge produces the most delicious home-made chocolates which are distributed nationally. Both dark and milk chocolates in a range of rich, mouthwatering flavours are available. - Phone: 064 66 79994 More Info
Visit the Traditional Farm at Molly Gallivan’s Cottage and Traditional Farm. On a 500 metre walk you’ll see the way farmers used to work and exist before the invention of electricity and other modern methods. You’ll encounter antique farm machinery and see demonstrations of sheep shearing and dipping. [By prior appointment] - Phone: 064 66 40714/41455 More Info
Swimming in an indoor swimming pool, has only been possible in Kenmare in recent years. The Kenmare Bay Hotel and Resort opened their state-of-the-art leisure centre in June 2007 and there’s a sauna, jacuzzi and steam room too. Use of the pool by non-residents is subject to availibility. - Phone: 064 66 42599 More Info
The Blackwater River flows out into Kenmare Bay at Blackwater Bridge and provides a beautiful walk along its banks. Watch the salmon leaping and enjoy a picnic by the river’s waters or get a fishing permit and land some salmon! -
The Stone Circle at Kenmare is a particularly fine example and is the largest stone circle in south west Ireland. Over 3,000 years old, it consists of 15 stones enclosing a circle measuring about 17metres in diameter. It’s known locally as the Druid's Circle and features a capstone which must be around seven tons in weight.
The Stone Circle is very close to the centre of town and is signposted from the Square. - More Info
Retail Therapy is a pleasure in Kenmare with such a wealth of quirky shops to visit. Surely there isn’t a town in Ireland with such diverse gift, clothing and craft stores. And, when you need a breather, there are plenty of cafes, delis and coffeehouses to relax in. -
Tennis games on long summer evenings amid spectacular mountain scenery is what you can enjoy at Faungorth Activity Centre on the Killgarvan Road. With a choice of hard or grass courts and indeed many other outdoor activities, it’s ‘Advantage Kenmare!’ - Phone: 064 66 41770
Outdoors Advennture Centre on Kenmare Bay is possible from Star Outdoors, Accommodation and Adventure Centre. The Kenmare River is a very under-used waterway, which means that there’s plenty of space for novice sailors and old sea dogs alike to explore the river. Your voyage will be undertaken using the best of equipment and with the benefit of expert supervision and tuition. - Phone: 064 66 41222 More Info
The Motor Museum near Kenmare was established in 1985 and is a treasure trove of historical motor memorobilia. Kilgarvan Motor Museum, a family-run business has supplied vehicles for major films and regularly offers antique limousines for weddings throughout the county. - Phone: 064 66 85346 More Info
Visit Sneem on the Ring of Kerry. Enjoy a wonderful drive along the north side of Kenmare Bay to reach the village of Sneem. This is an unusual and picturesque Irish village with two greens and a wealth of bars and pubs. There are a number of walks to enjoy in and around the village - particularly the ‘Garden of the Senses’ and activites at the Resource Centre. -
Try Oysters and Guinness It’s an Irish speciality and part of the craic. Many bars and eateries in and around Kenmare offer this unique combination of flavours. -
Horse Riding is just one of the many outdoor activities available in the Kenmare region. Local riding schools and stables include Eclipse Ireland and Blackwater Stables.

Eclipse Ireland 064 66 82965 More Info
Blackwater Stables 064 66 6628939 More Info
Dromquinna Stables 00353 64 6641043
More Info -
Beauty Treatments are available at Me-Time at the Brook Lane Hotel. Here you can experience their special AWT machine of which there are only three in Ireland. It’s a brilliant and efficient system of breaking down cellulite. They do facials, pedicures, 100% hair removal, Dr. Temt products and treatments. - Phone: 064 66 48727