Experience the stunning beauty of the Kingdom of Kerry – Put yourself in the picture
Kerry is acclaimed in song, story and verse, travel books, blogs and on social media, and it’s no wonder! When you come to Kerry you will realise why. Are you ready to ‘put yourself in the picture’?
Frommer’s recently added The Wild Atlantic Way to its ‘Best Places To Go in 2018′ list saying that it isn’t just one of the best places to go in the world; it’s among the best in the galaxy! More about that later. Killarney is the perfect base if you want to tour the Cork and Kerry portions of the famed rugged coastal route. We have selected seven things for you to do when you visit Killarney. Not all are on the Wild Atlantic Way but we are certain you’ll love them all. So let’s get started!
1. Breathe the Atlantic sea air on the Dingle Peninsula
The picture at the top of the page looks out over the Atlantic and ‘The Three Sisters’ on the Dingle Peninsula. Those who visit there remember the fresh air, the peace and quiet, the warmth of the people, the sheep and of course the stunning vistas where at times the sea seems to touch the sky. When staying in Killarney you can be on the Dingle Peninsula in about an hour.
2. Savour the Seafood Platter at Lord Kenmare’s Restaurant
Any day out and about in Kerry will result in a good appetite. Since the Atlantic is right on the doorstep why not book a table at Lord Kenmare’s Restaurant and order the signature dish – the seafood platter. Using fish and shellfish freshly landed every day, the Seafood Platter at Lord Kenmare’s will give you the true taste of the Atlantic. The restaurant books quickly at peak times so it’s best to have booked ahead of time. Call 064-6637245 or send a message on Facebook.
3. Take a Jaunting Car through Killarney National Park
This is a wonderful way to take in a ‘snapshot’ of the National Park. No matter the weather the ‘jarveys’ will look after you with blankets and weatherproof shields so that you will enjoy your trip. Hear the local history and the sights as you jaunt along happily. Unmissable when in Killarney.
4. Take in a visit to Skelligs Chocolates
Skelligs Chocolates welcome visitors to see their Award-Winning chocolates being made, taste the freshly made treats from their chocolatiers while learning all about chocolate. This is a wonderful experience just off the Ring of Kerry route. You may even be able to pick up a gift or two to take home with you. This is certainly a delicious and unique diversion just an hour from Killarney.
5. Check out Skellig Michael of Star Wars fame
Skellig Michael is an uninhabited island off the coast of the Ring of Kerry, which had an ancient monastic settlement. The remains of the monastery, and most of the island, became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. However, the island is perhaps best known as the location for some scenes in the Star Wars movies – The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi. You will be able to visit the island during the summer months (weather permitting) and you will still be able to catch sight of the island from the mainland in the winter. We think this is a must for all Star Wars fans and movie buffs everywhere in the galaxy.
6. Walk in the footsteps of Queen Victoria by visiting Muckross House
When Queen Victoria set foot in Killarney in 1861 she put the town firmly on the tourist map. Many still come and walk in her footsteps today visiting the things she saw and the places she stayed. During the royal visit Victoria and Albert stayed at Muckross House and you can visit there also to discover the lifestyles of times gone by. There is no charge to visit the gardens.
7. Experience a Traditional Music Session at Murphy’s Bar
No visit to Kerry would be complete without experiencing the music and dance of the area. A traditional music session at Murphy’s Bar Killarney is the ideal way to absorb the tradition of ‘Sliabh Luachra’ – a local area rich in music, song and dance. Local musicians provide music every night in the summer and at weekends in the winter months.
We are only scratching the surface here of what you can see and do when you use Killarney as a base. The suggestions listed above can easily be covered in three or four days. One thing is for sure though, you will want to come back for more!
If you need accommodation right in the centre of Killarney we can help you with that. Contact us directly as we can offer you special rates that you won’t find anywhere else online plus free breakfast. Phone 064-6631294 or message us on Facebook.
