Activities
Activities in and around Kenmare
Activities in and around Kenmare
Kenmare and its environs offers a wide variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, whether you’re into outdoor adventures, history, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting. From walking the Old Kenmare road and Gleninchaquin Park, to cycling the famous Ring of Kerry and Beara routes, to family watersports or a quiet round of golf, it’s all here! Read on…
Kenmare and its environs offers a wide variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, whether you’re into outdoor adventures, history, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting. From walking the Old Kenmare road and Gleninchaquin Park, to cycling the famous Ring of Kerry and Beara routes, to family watersports or a quiet round of golf, it’s all here! Read on…
Walk the Old Kenmare Road
The Old Kenmare Road is a scenic and historical trail that runs through the Killarney National Park. It’s the traditional route that was once used as a passage between Killarney and the town of Kenmare. The road itself is a combination of paths and trails, meandering through lush woodlands, across streams, and past stunning views of mountains and lakes.
The walk is about 20 km (12 miles) one-way and typically takes around 5 to 7 hours to complete, depending on your pace. It’s mostly easy to moderate in difficulty, but some parts can be a bit uneven or muddy, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and nature.
Gleninchaquin
Gleninchaquin Park is a stunning, scenic area near the village of Tuosist, not far from Kenmare. The park is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, offering a peaceful escape into nature with waterfalls, valleys, and dramatic mountain views. It’s a fantastic destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, photography, or simply exploring the Irish countryside.
Enjoy the spectacular Gleninchaquin Waterfall, which cascades dramatically down the valley. There are a variety of walking trails suitable for different levels of hikers, the main trail (1.5 km) being very popular. It is an easy walk that leads to the base of the waterfall and provides stunning views of the surrounding valley.
Kenmare Golf Club
Kenmare Golf Club is a beautiful 18-hole, par-71 golf course located in the town of Kenmare. Nestled between the Kerry mountains and Kenmare Bay, the club offers golfers stunning views and a fantastic blend of traditional Irish countryside and coastal scenery.
The course was designed by Eddie Hackett, one of Ireland’s most renowned golf course architects, and it’s often described as both challenging and fun. The layout is well-maintained, offering a mix of wide fairways, tricky bunkers, and well-placed water hazards. The course is relatively forgiving, which makes it suitable for golfers of various skill levels.
Ring of Kerry Golf Club
The Ring of Kerry Golf Club is a beautiful 18-hole, par-72 golf course located at Templenoe, close to Kenmare town. The course is set in one of Ireland’s most picturesque locations, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Ring of Kerry. From nearly every hole, golfers are treated to panoramic views of Kenmare Bay and the Caha Mountains.
The course is known for its gently undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards. The layout offers a good balance of challenges and rewards, making it suitable for golfers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned players.
Cycling
Kenmare is at the heart of the Ring of Kerry and ring of Beara alike, and the two famous routes lend themselves to annual cycles which have grown in popularity over the years.
The Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle is an annual event held in early July. It’s one of the largest charity cycling events in the country, attracting cyclists from all over the world to take part in a scenic, challenging ride while raising money for various local and national charities.
The Ring of Beara Cycle is a stunning cycling route around the Beara Peninsula in both counties Kerry and Cork. It’s one of the lesser-known but equally beautiful alternatives to the more famous Ring of Kerry. The route offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic coast, rugged mountains, peaceful villages, and the unspoiled Irish countryside.
Star Outdoors
Star Outdoors is a fantastic outdoor adventure company located in Dauros, outside Kenmare. It offers a wide range of outdoor activities for people of all ages and abilities, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore the stunning natural landscapes of the Ring of Kerry and Kenmare Bay.
The main activities offered are Kayaking & Canoeing, Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP), Boat Tours, Mountain Biking, Fishing, Team Building & School Programs.
