Tour de Munster Rolls into Kenmare

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Kenmare was delighted to welcome the cyclists of the Tour de Munster once again this August, as more than 100 riders made their way through the Kingdom as part of an incredible four day, 600km journey across all six counties of Munster.

Now in its 26th year, the Tour de Munster raises vital funds for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland, supporting the services they provide to children and adults with Down syndrome and their families. Since the Tour began in 2001, millions of euro have been raised, with a record €543,000 raised in 2025 alone.

The cyclists certainly earn their welcome to Kenmare. Their Kerry stage takes them from Tralee through some of the most spectacular, and challenging, cycling country in Ireland, including the Conor Pass, Dingle, Killarney and Moll’s Gap before arriving into Kenmare. The following morning brings another formidable climb over the Caha Pass as the Tour makes its way back towards Cork.

It was wonderful to see Kenmare businesses getting behind the event again this year. Brook Lane Hotel welcomed the cyclists to Kenmare, while Tom Crean Brewery Kenmare sponsored refreshments and post cycle hydration for the riders after their gruelling day in the saddle. It is exactly this kind of local support that makes events such as the Tour de Munster possible. A drink, a meal, a place to rest or simply a warm Kenmare welcome might seem like a small contribution, but when businesses across towns and villages throughout Munster each play their part, it becomes something much bigger.

And, of course, there was a very important reason behind every kilometre cycled. The Tour de Munster has been supporting Down Syndrome Ireland's Munster branches for many years, helping them continue essential services for children and adults with Down syndrome and their families. Irish cycling legend Seán Kelly, a long standing ambassador for the Tour, once again joined the cyclists for this year's challenge.

A huge congratulations to every cyclist who took part, to the organisers and support crews who made the journey possible, and to everyone who donated or supported them along the way.

And a special thank you to our Kenmare businesses for doing what Kenmare does so well: opening the doors, looking after people and giving visitors a warm welcome when they arrive.

We hope there were a few tired legs leaving Kenmare the following morning, but plenty of happy memories too!

Congratulations to everyone involved in Tour de Munster 2026 💚