Sightseeing

Explore the surrounding area

There is an array of things to see and do in the local area of Kenmare and Kilgarvan. The bustling heritage town of Kenmare, only a short drive from Doire Farm Cottages, with its brightly coloured shops, world-renowned bars and restaurants and stunning scenery, has plenty to offer including an ancient stone circle, one of the biggest in South West Ireland.

Kenmare is a popular starting point for exploring the Ring of Kerry and the Beara Peninsula, which are renowned for their stunning landscapes and natural attractions.

Read on for some of the best things to do in the local area…

Kenmare is a popular starting point for exploring the Ring of Kerry and the Beara Peninsula, which are renowned for their stunning landscapes and natural attractions.

Read on for some of the best things to do in the local area…

The Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is one of the most famous and scenic driving routes in Ireland, and you can start ‘The Ring’ from the town of Kenmare. The route is approximately 179 kilometres (111 miles) long and takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the Wild Atlantic Way, including stunning coastal views, rolling hills, rugged mountains, lakes, and charming villages.

As you travel along the Iveragh Peninsula, enjoy the many highlights which include:

Killarney National Park: Ireland’s first National Park covering 10,000 hectares and home to the native red deer herd.
Ladies View: enjoy panoramic views of the Killarney Lakes and surrounding mountains along the main Kenmare-Killarney road.
Glenbeigh: this charming little village and the nearby Rossbeigh Beach are well worth exploring.
Sneem: A picturesque village located on the southern coast of the peninsula, known for its colourful houses, charming shops and sculptures.
Waterville: A small coastal town located along the route, famous for its connection to Charlie Chaplin, who vacationed here.
Cahersiveen: a town rich in history and close to Staigue Fort and the village of Portmagee, gateway to the Skellig Islands.
Derrynane Beach: one of the best beaches in Kerry, perfect for a peaceful break during the drive.

The Beara Peninsula

Known for its dramatic landscapes, coastal beauty, and rich history, the Beara Peninsula offers a less-traveled alternative to the famous Ring of Kerry, yet is just as breathtaking. It’s perfect for those seeking natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and a peaceful escape.

Some of Beara’s highlights include:

The Ring of Beara: a scenic driving route that takes you around the entire peninsula.
The Healy Pass: offers sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and lakes.
Castletownbere: a vibrant fishing town with a wealth of great bars and seafood restaurants.
Bere Island: accessed by ferry from Castletownbere, the island has a peaceful atmosphere and is a great place to walk.
Glengarriff and Garnish Island: the beautiful little village of Glengarriff is adjacent to Garnish Island, home to beautiful gardens and a great spot for birdwatching.
Eyeries and Allihies: enjoy a stroll around these small, brightly painted villages of great character.

The Local Area

Kenmare town

The town of Kenmare has a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, with colourful buildings, a large range of shops, art galleries, cozy cafés and pubs. It has a reputation for its excellent food, with a number of restaurants serving fresh seafood, local produce, and Irish speciality dishes.

Molly Gallivan's Traditional Cottage and Farm Visitor Centre

Molly Gallivan’s is a traditional Irish farmhouse and heritage centre located near Kenmare, . Experience Irish rural life from the 18th century in the restored farmhouse, an old-style cottage, with various exhibits on Irish farming, local history and culture. There’s also a gift shop and a café where visitors can enjoy traditional Irish food.

Named after Molly Gallivan, a local historical figure who is said to have lived and operated a small pub in the area.

Kenmare Stone Circle

Kenmare Stone circle is one of the largest stone circles in Ireland and dates back to the late Bronze Age, around 3,000 years ago. Made up of 15 large stones, it is thought to have been used for ceremonial or ritual purposes, possibly related to astronomical observations or seasonal cycles.

The stones are arranged in an elliptical shape, and there is one large central stone that is particularly striking. The site is a great example of Ireland’s rich megalithic heritage, and it’s a peaceful place to visit, offering a glimpse into the country’s ancient past.

Boat Tours of Kenmare Bay

Sit back, relax and enjoy observing local wildlife in their natural habitat of Kenmare Bay. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins, and a variety of seabirds as we you cruise along Kerry’s scenic coastline.

Discover the hidden gems of Kenmare Bay while surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of this region.

Derreen Garden

Situated along the Beara Peninsula, this 60-acre botanical garden is known for its remarkable beauty, featuring a wide variety of plants that thrive in the mild climate of the area.

The gardens were created in the 19th century by the Hervey family, who were passionate about introducing exotic and rare plants. Over the years, the gardens have grown into a lush and diverse landscape, with a mixture of subtropical plants, woodland, and stunning views of the surrounding hills and coastline.

A visit to Derreen in the Spring is a wonderful experience when many of the flowers are in bloom, but it’s a lovely destination year-round.

Lorge Chocolatier

Founded by French chocolatier Gérard Lorge, Lorge Chocolatier is located in bonane, outside Kenmare. Known for its high-quality, hand-crafted chocolates, Lorge Chocolatier is particularly famous for its truffles, caramels, and chocolate bars, and they often incorporate local ingredients like Irish cream and whiskey, giving their creations a unique twist.

The chocolates are created using traditional methods, with an emphasis on rich, deep flavors and beautiful presentations.

In addition to the chocolates, Lorge Chocolatier also offers a range of chocolate-making workshops, where visitors can learn the art of chocolate creation from the experts. It’s a great way to get hands-on and see the craftsmanship involved in making these delicious treats.

Tom Crean Brewery

Named after the famous Irish Antarctic explorer Tom Crean, this Kenmare brewery is known for its wide range of locally brewed beers and its commitment to quality craftsmanship.

The brewery’s connection to Tom Crean is a nod to his adventurous spirit and resilience, as he was known for his incredible feats of survival in the harshest conditions during his expeditions with famous explorers like Ernest Shackleton and Robert Falcon Scott.

Call in and enjoy Craft Beers in our tasting room or take a tour and learn about the history of the brewery, the brewing process, and the story behind Tom Crean himself

Bonane Heritage Park

Bonane Heritage Park is a scenic and cultural heritage site located on the Beara Peninsula. Known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and archaeological sites, the park offers visitors the opportunity to explore ancient stone circles, burial sites, and other remnants of the past while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings, including views of the nearby mountains and coastline.

Bonane Heritage Park is not just a place for history enthusiasts but also for those looking to enjoy walking, hiking, and immersing themselves in the history and culture of Ireland. The park is well-signposted, making it easy for visitors to follow the different trails and discover the various sites.