O'Shea's Ceol Na Habhann
Free Breakfast
Free Parking
Pets Allowed
Suites
Accommodation Type: Bed and Breakfast

Guest rooms in a private home or small hotel that includes breakfast in the price of lodging.
O'Sheas Ceol Na Habhann is a tastefully furnished B&B, situated in a quiet scenic location off the N71 Killarney - Ring of Kerry road, just 1.5km from the picturesque town of Kenmare. All bedrooms are spacious and en suite with television, tea/coffee making facilities and hairdryer. During the day you can view, John, milking the cows as you enjoy your stay at our working farmhouse or take in a short walk. You will be amazed to see an ancient ring fort on the farm. O'Sheas Ceol Na habhann is short distance from Kenmare Town and is the ideal base for touring the Ring of Kerry, Beara Peninsula, Killarney Town and National Park. This Bed and Breakfast has received a Gold Rating from Green Tourism

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4 Bell Heights Apartments

Property Details
This spacious and comfortable two bedroom property in County Kerry is able to sleep up to four people. This comfortable and spacious apartment is located on the first floor, conveniently close to the popular tourist town of Kenmare, in County Kerry. This apartment has been well furnished and boasts an open plan living area with balcony and bay views. With two good-size bedrooms – one en-suite double and one twin – this is an ideal location for a family vacation. For rainy days, the apartment comes with Sky TV and a DVD player, whilst outside there is off-road parking for several cars.Amenities: Electric and underfloor heating, with additional heating from solid fuel stove in sitting room. Electric oven, hob and grill, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, tumble dryer, colour TV (... more
This spacious and comfortable two bedroom property in County Kerry is able to sleep up to four people. This comfortable and spacious apartment is located on the first floor, conveniently close to the popular tourist town of Kenmare, in County Kerry. This apartment has been well furnished and boasts an open plan living area with balcony and bay views. With two good-size bedrooms – one en-suite double and one twin – this is an ideal location for a family vacation. For rainy days, the apartment comes with Sky TV and a DVD player, whilst outside there is off-road parking for several cars.Amenities: Electric and underfloor heating, with additional heating from solid fuel stove in sitting room. Electric oven, hob and grill, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, tumble dryer, colour TV (local TV channels), DVD player. All fuel and power inc. in rent. Bed linen and towels inc. in rent. Cot and highchair available on request. Communal off road parking in front of property, with space for several cars. Balcony with outdoor furniture. Sorry, no pets and no smoking. Shops, pubs and coastline only 5 mins walk.Region: County Kerry is a mystical and unspoilt part of Ireland, with spectacular natural beauty and a fascinating history. Facing the Atlantic Ocean, it features many sandy beaches, rocky inlets and stunning peninsulas.Town: Situated on the stunning Bay of Kenmare, this picturesque town overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and boasts beautiful beaches, wildlife and scenery. The rugged coastline and sandy beaches make this an incredibly diverse destination. Kenmare itself is an interesting town with long winding streets that play host to farmer’s markets, galleries, boutiques and some of the best restaurants in Ireland. The famous town of Killarney is also close by and boasts an abundance of attractions of its own. These include an array of pubs, festivals and the National Park - just 35 minutes drive away. Both the Beara and Dingle Peninsulas are close by whilst the Ring of Kerry is within easy driving distance.
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Suaimhneas Cottage

Property Details
Ideally located in a tranquil position, this stunning, detached cottage offers comfortable and welcoming accommodation for up to three people. This beautiful, detached cottage is fabulously located in an isolated position, just six miles from Kenmare. Set in the owner's pretty gardens with great views over Kenmare Bay, this property provides wonderful, open-plan living with multi-fuel stove and a spacious en-suite bedroom. The property is able to sleep three people, making it ideal for a young family and comes with shared use of a large lawned garden – a fantastic place for summer ball games or barbecues. There are numerous local amenities and activities within easy reach of the cottage, making it a wonderful, relaxing place to spend a vacation.Amenities: Central heating from multi-fuel... more
Ideally located in a tranquil position, this stunning, detached cottage offers comfortable and welcoming accommodation for up to three people. This beautiful, detached cottage is fabulously located in an isolated position, just six miles from Kenmare. Set in the owner's pretty gardens with great views over Kenmare Bay, this property provides wonderful, open-plan living with multi-fuel stove and a spacious en-suite bedroom. The property is able to sleep three people, making it ideal for a young family and comes with shared use of a large lawned garden – a fantastic place for summer ball games or barbecues. There are numerous local amenities and activities within easy reach of the cottage, making it a wonderful, relaxing place to spend a vacation.Amenities: Central heating from multi-fuel stove in the living area. Electric cooker, microwave, fridge/freezer, dishwasher. Colour TV, basic Satellite package, CD/radio/cassette player etc. Small selection of CDs. Electricity payable to owner upon departure (from meter reading). Starter pack of fuel for multi-fuel stove inc. in rent. Bed linen and towels inc. in rent. Off road parking for 2 cars. Shared use of large lawned garden and gazebo with private patio area and garden furniture. Sorry, no pets and no smoking. Shop 6 miles, pub 2 miles.Region: County Kerry is a mystical and unspoilt part of Ireland, with spectacular natural beauty and a fascinating history. Facing the Atlantic Ocean, it features many sandy beaches, rocky inlets and stunning peninsulas.Town: Situated on the stunning Bay of Kenmare and overlooking the gleaming Atlantic Ocean is the lovely village of Kenmare. With beautiful beaches, wildlife and spectacular scenery this region is a fantastic place for bird watching enthusiasts. The rugged coastline is punctuated by sandy beaches whilst pebble beaches surround Kenmare bay itself. The town is full of character and colour, with long winding streets that host a weekly farmer’s market, artists galleries, interesting little boutiques and some of the best restaurants in Ireland. The town of Killarney hosts an abundance of attractions, pubs, festivals and the National Park is only about 35 minutes drive away. With the Beara and Dingle Peninsulas nearby and the Ring of Kerry within easy reach, this is a great location and not to be missed.
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More Info: Trip advisor

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Killarney: An Irish charmer that captivates every visitor

David Brice, CEO of Golf International, reviews destinations on PGATOUR.COM that can be experienced by purchasing a package with Golf international, a leading provider of high-end international golf travel. For more information about this trip or any other of Golf International's destination trips, click here.
In a land where the Royal and Ancient game is the sport of the people, the Emerald Isle boasts an imposing array of well over 400 golf courses to accommodate its population of barely 6 million, making it one of the world's most golfer friendly countries. The quality of Irish golf is as good as any on the planet and better than most and there isn't a golf club in the country that doesn't have a large welcome mat at the front door for all visitors. Ireland's famous hospitality will never be warmer or more heart-felt than at her golf clubs and courses - reason enough why Ireland belongs at the very top of every golfers list of places that must be visited.

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YouTube house sale pioneer helps distressed Irish sellers with new website - VIDEOS

The Wicklow woman whose YouTube house sale was blocked by her bank is now attempting to help others caught in the negative equity trap.
PR executive Jillian Godsil attracted attention all around the world when she ‘sold’ her house with the help of a YouTube video – only for Bank of Scotland Ireland to block the deal.
Raheengraney House in Shillelagh is now back on the market after the bank refused to accept a €500,000 sale to an English buyer who has since lost interest.
Divorced mum of two Godsil, dismayed by the bank’s refusal to accept the offer as settlement on a €900,000 mortgage she can’t afford after her ex-husband went bankrupt, is now helping others in a similar plight sell their houses.
Together with Australian video expert Shane Michaels, Godsil has set up a website at www.thehousehunters.ie which offers sellers a unique opportunity to market their property via YouTube.
“After all the publicity I received about my attempts to sell my own house, in all corners of the globe, I was inundated with requests from people in a similar situation asking me if I could help them,” revealed Jillian.
“About 20 people asked me to help sell their property for them and then six people came forward and asked if I could make a video for them. I met up with Shane when he saw my own house on YouTube and now we are videoing the houses and looking to market them via the internet.

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Bank blocks successful YouTube house saleDesperate single Irish mother tries to sell

Desperate single Irish mother tries to sell home on YouTube - VIDEO____________

“We have six properties already on the site and we really hope to help these people sell their houses. We’re even helping Freddie the Dog retire from his book selling business in Kenmare which people can see on the site.
“I can’t help them with the banks. The people who have contacted me don’t necessarily have negative equity but they all have rapidly dwindling equity and a need to sell quickly for various reasons.
“I thought trying to sell my own property was stressful enough but these are people’s homes they are trying to sell and I feel a responsibility to them now.”
Her own experiences have tainted Godsil’s views of the Irish banking system. She fears many more people will be caught in a similar trap before the property market bottoms out.
“If my own experience is anything to go by, the whole thing is probably going to get worse before it gets better,” she maintained.
“I know there are people like me who want to hand back the keys to their primary residence to their mortgage company and don’t want the burden of the mortgage when they have no capacity to pay but the banks won’t help.
“I do think the banks should take some risk too. They valued the houses and lent the money and this is where the American system of no-recourse loans may come in.
“After all, they are doing it hand over fist for commercial properties so why not for domestic properties as well. I can assure you that people do not hand over domestic properties unless they have reached the end of the line.
“I see developers walk away scot free and wonder why the state is not protecting me and people like me.”
PR executive Godsil’s own problems persist after Bank of Ireland Scotland’s refusal to accept the €500,000 deal for Raheengraney House negotiated with an Englishman first alerted to the property on YouTube.
“The current state of my own house is that it is empty and not sold, it is back on the market and I will take offers” admitted Godsil

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Bottlenose dolphins a frequent delight along the Kerry coast

IT should be no surprise that we choose the bottlenose dolphin as one of the special species of Kerry, not just because of Fungie, but because of the considerable numbers of bottlenose dolphin that can frequently be seen off the Kerry coast.
They are probably the most abundant dolphin species we have and are one of 24 species of cetacean (whales, dolphins and porpoise) found in Irish waters.
Dr. Simon Berrow and his colleagues in the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group have done wonderful work in highlighting the number of cetacean species in Irish water and their website can be found at www.iwdg.ie
Bottlenose dolphins are frequently observed around the entire Irish coast, but the west coast holds some of the greatest concentrations in Europe. In Kerry, bottlenose dolphins are regularly seen in Kenmare Bay, Dingle and Brandon Bay and around the Dingle Peninsula including the Blasket Islands and Smerwick Harbour. In North Kerry, the only resident groups of dolphins in Ireland occurs in the Shannon estuary and they are regularly seen from the cliff walk at Ballybunion. People who use the Tarbert – Killimer car ferry often see dolphins jumping in front of the vessel as she makes her way across the Shannon. If you see dolphins jumping from the water look for a short beak and large dorsal fin as good identification features.
Bottlenose dolphins are long-lived animals, males are thought to live up to 30 years while females can live to 40. The latter do not breed until they are at least 12 years old and will only give birth every two to four years so their reproductive rate is low. Male dolphins have no role in rearing the calf. Mature males often form small groups and will compete to mate with receptive females. Maybe this is the source of the numerous tooth rakes and scars that dolphins carry on many parts of their body.
Because sound travels much better underwater, bottlenose dolphins are quite vocal. They produce a wide range of clicks, whistles, creaks, groans and other noises. Clicks are used for echolocation to navigate and find food, while whistles are used to communicate between dolphins. Each dolphin has its own distinct signature whistle and soon after birth, a mother and calf will learn each other's whistle so they can keep in close contact.
Fungi, the resident bottlenose dolphin in Dingle Harbour is not unique in his desire to swim with boats and humans. There have been at least 65 reported cases of wild, sociable dolphins and every incident is different. Recently there have been sociable dolphins at Fanore in County Clare, Inish Oirr off the Galway coast and for a short period a number of year ago one at The Great Blasket Island. Recognising that dolphins are wild, unpredictable animals that should be respected in their environment is important if these encounters are to remain trouble free for dolphin and humans.

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Go last minute

OPERA COMES to Cork and the gardens of Burren House, Kilbrittain, for the fourth year running in aid of Cork Simon, Marymount Hospice and the Lions Club. On Saturday September 3th, and Sunday,September 4th, you can hear Mozart’s Impresario and Pagliacci being sung in English. Two-day tickets are €99, details from burrenhouse.net. Make a weekend of it and find accommodation on irelandhotels.com.
TRY YOUR hand at salmon fishing between now and the end of September at Sheen Falls Lodge, Kenmare, Co Kerry, with the resident gillie. The package includes breakfast and dinner and two hours on the River Sheen from €210pps, equipment and licence included. 064-664 1600, sheenfalls.com.
IRELAND’S newest singles weekend is taking place in the shadow of Croagh Patrick from September 23rd to 25th. Meet on the Reek centres on a team-based group climb, with lots of other activities, including canoeing, zorbing, archery and zipping. Two nights’ B&B, lunch and dinner on the 24th costs from €170pps in the Castlecourt Hotel, Westport.

PREMIERSHIP packages for your favourite teams are now available from Keith Prowse Travel. Chelsea fans can book the Captain’s Bar package at Stamford Bridge, which includes seats in the East Stand middle tier, access to the bar, a meal, programme and one night in a hotel from €236pps. 01-8783500, keithprowseireland.com.
IF THE SUMMER passed you by and you crave some sunshine, book now for mid-term break in Orlando. Family packages are from €699pps and include flights, a week in the Champions World Resort and all taxes. Or stay in a home away from home with a mid-size car from €799pps. 01-2886828, sunway.ie.
THE FOUR-STAR Nora Beach Resort in Koh Samui, Thailand, costs from €1,249. The five-star Mai Samui Resort costs from €1,289 for a week, including flights from Dublin. 01-2412303, gohop.ie.
AIR TRANSAT direct services from Ireland to Toronto and Montreal will continue until the end of October, with fares from €198 each way, including taxes, baggage and meals. 01-8666700, airtransat.ie.

meetonthereek.ie
LOOK UP : it’s the International air show in Portrush, Co Antrim, on September 3rd and 4th. Thousands of people are expected to come for the 20 air displays, shows and entertainment. Stay two nights at the Ramada Portrush from £109pps (about €123), including dinner one evening. Book with Northern Ireland Tourist Board on 1850-230230.
YOU COULD say goodbye to summer with a cruise on the Corrib. The McWilliam Park hotel in Claremorris, Co Mayo, is including a free cruise for bookings from August 28th to 31st and two nights’ B&B and one dinner for €99pps, 094-9378000, mcwilliampark.ie.
THE BRANDON House Hotel and Solas Croí eco spa are well located in New Ross for families to explore the southeast. Don’t miss the Famine ship, Dunbrody, for a striking reminder of the past. August weekends from €249 for families with dinner one evening. 051-421703, brandonhousehotel.ie.

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The summer’s getting shorter

Meanderng away, though the days are shortening now and the apples on Maisie's old apple trees in the garden are becoming red-cheeked with the rapid approach of autumn, I am drawn again to Murrisk at the base of Croagh Patrick for the enduring fairytale that is Reek Sunday and the pilgrimage to the summit and Mass in the wee oratory up there that is the closest Mass to paradise in Ireland.I've been up there more than 20 times, maybe 30, always in the line of reporting duties for newspapers and magazines now long gone, and it is my firm intent to climb the holy mountain again.I put on my boots and take my pilgrim's staff and put Ciara's leather hat on my head and start off through the afternoon crowds with a light heart and step. There are thousands gathering and climbing, just like always. Nothing has changed at all.Except me! I realize that after a while.I am not as young as I used to be in the years I went up there like a goat. I'm still in good nick, but dammit I'm closer to 70 than any other decade marker. The holy mountain has got higher for sure.I decide I will only go up as far as the statue of St. Patrick in the foothills, and that will do me. It is not raining, Clew Bay is beautiful during the periods when you can glimpse it through the afternoon mists.I arrive at Patrick's cold stone toes so fresh I nearly change my mind but then remember how sharp the last stages of the climb are, even for young men, and say my prayers there, leaning on my staff, untroubled and at peace.Two women of the traveling people pass me by barefoot. They were always a major thread in the tapestry of Reek Sunday. The stones underfoot do not seem to hurt their tough soles. The traveling people were always religious. Nothing has changed at all.I watch the mass of bodies climbing away up above me. I look at Patrick's austere old face."Saint," says I, "I don't think I'll be going any higher today than I am now. Is that all right?" I think he understood and forgave.I ambled back down to Murrisk at the height of my ease, listening to the praying whispers of the little river traveling down with me. I'm kinda ashamed deep down at not going up to the summit but relieved too. One must adjust to the times.Accordingly, once back at the car, I don't go into Campbell's Pub like I always did before. The drink-driving regulations are tight nowadays. One drink is no good at all if that is all you can have.I drive away towards Galway as the colorful snake of climbers weaves its way around the bulk of The Reek. There was a deadline anyway. I had to get to Spiddal to be present for grandchild Lucy's fourth birthday.I missed the cutting of the cake but not the party by the side of Galway Bay in Cuan and Niamh's house. The Dutch Nation was already there when I arrived.Lucy's other grandfather is retired Dublin teacher named Kevin O'Brien, himself originally a native of Galway City. He's what you call a lovely man, gentle and learned, and he sticks me to the chair inside the hour with an informed theory he's picked up from reliable sources about this season's failure of the Galway hurlers.The theory is that inter-club rivalry is so deeply passionate in Galway that, when the game starts to go wrong, the players revert to their club "selves" and there is not then the common purpose, focus and drive to enable them to come back from reverses.Recent hurling history for the county supports Kevin's theory. I found it fascinating. Our Lucy was the happiest child in Connemara that evening, and sure that rubbed off on everyone.And it is two evenings later and I'm dropping down from the Ladies View on the Caha Pass with the Dutch Nation into the town of Kenmare just after Angelus time in the evening.The evening is golden, the Ring of Kerry has tried to prove for the past hour that it is the most scenic area of the west, (Christ but it is breathtaking!), and when we drop down into Kenmare we decide we are too hungry to go all the way down to Clonakilty.So we stop in the center of the bright and busy town -- all the nations of the world a-walking – and we go into a pub called JB McCarthy's sometime just after seven o'clock. There is a merry air about the place, a mixed crowd that seems to include both bankers and hippies. And we order our food.And, certainly before 7:30, live music starts from the corner, the very best and brightest. And at the same time I spot old friend Aileen Roantree at a nearby table, and she tells me the music always starts early in Kenmare and runs as long as the night runs. And she gives me the names of the musicians.There was Dave Baker on box and banjo, Nick Urwin on bazouki, and none other than the legendary Sean Garvey in the middle.I know Sean but I left him alone as I attacked my lamb stew with relish, and he sang ballads with his mighty voice and played the fiddle and banjo as well.I met Paul Walsh, the man of the house, and complimented him on his lamb stew and the craic and asked him to help me slink away without Sean seeing me (which he did), because otherwise I would not be able to get out of Kenmare for two days.And the Dutch Nation, even when enchanted like she was, never forgets that thing called The Schedule

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Somerton Kenmare County Kerry Ireland

Somerton is a contemporary architect deseigned home. Somerton is a vacation rental with a difference, we are a family run business and we offer our Guests a personalised service. The house is situated in the south west of Ireland just outside the beautiful town of Kenmare. Somerton overlooks the sheltered Kenmare Bay and has fabolous views of the highest mountains in Ireland. Somerton is a detached home on 2 acres of gardens. See our web site for more details somertonkenmare dot com. the house itself is a bright spacious house and will accomodate eight people comfortably.

Source: Trip Advisor

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Bradley's Irish heritage

Bradley's Irish heritage
NEW CHAMPION Keegan Bradley would one day like to include the Irish Open on his list of must-play tournaments, given what he calls a strong Irish heritage. Bradley – born in Vermont, –has visited Ireland as a youngster on family holidays but the association between the old country and the Bradleys is reflected in the fact that his aunt, six-time Major winner and former US Solheim Cup captain Pat Bradley, is an honorary member of both Old Head Golf Links in Kinsale and of Kenmare Golf Club in Kerry.

In fact, Pat’s brothers – John, Chris and Tom – are past winners of the Kenmare Brothers’ Classic.

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Best hotels in Ireland

Not only does Ireland boast golf courses of incredible quality, but many of those courses are attached to some of the most luxurious castles, hotels and resorts to be found anywhere in the world.
Golf may be an outdoor game and many players may enjoy more challenging weather conditions but there are also those who prefer a more leisurely game with a little bit of comfort thrown in afterwards. They want to be able to stroll among beautiful scenery, hit a few balls, and then enjoy what might be called the “après golf”.
And Ireland’s offering in this regard is second to none. The entire island is replete with courses which are attached to top quality hotels and resorts, where you can walk from the 18th green into the lap of luxury. Where you can refresh yourself with an invigorating swim or spa treatment, relax over a meal in a five star restaurant, and unwind over a digestif in a luxurious lounge before retiring to bed.

Just south of Dublin you’ll find the Brooke Lodge Hotel and Wells Spa, a stunning 4-star hotel set in a beautiful Wicklow village. Home to the dramatic Strawberry Tree – a highly acclaimed organic restaurant, and the truly luxurious Wells Spa. Macreddin Village boasts Actor's Country Pub & Brewery, an equestrian centre as well as the Paul McGinley designed Macreddin Brook golf course which will be opening for Play in September, just in time for the Ryder Cup.
A little further south, less than two hours from Dublin, there is Waterford Castle Hotel and Golf Club. This marvellous facility is uniquely situated on a 310 acre island overlooking the estuary of the river Suir, three miles from Waterford City. Access to the island is by a chain linked private car ferry. Furnished with antiques and open fireplaces, the 15th century castle combines gracious living of an elegant past with every modern comfort service and convenience, an 18 hole championship golf course and excellent dining experience.
Not far away is the award winning Mount Juliet Conrad hotel which is set on one of Ireland’s most prestigious golfing estates and home to the 2002 American Express World Golf Championship. Horse riding, angling, tennis, clay target shooting and archery are among the selection of activities on offer at Mount Juliet. Those who prefer to remain indoors can choose the stylish health club and spa or simply relax in the most idyllic surroundings imaginable.
Moving along the south coast to County Kerry you come across Parknasilla. When you first visit Parknasilla you will be overwhelmed by the beauty of its location. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, majestic seascapes, rugged mountains and lush woodlands nourished by the warm Gulf Stream combine to make it an unspoiled haven of beauty and peace. Staff have been welcoming guests to this majestic place since 1895 and with its own golf course on site you have a complete, self-contained luxury experience.

Just a short drive away is the Park Hotel in Kenmare, County Kerry. Also dating back to the late 19th century this hotel offers a heavenly location overlooking the beautiful Kenmare Bay. Guests can also indulge in the ethos of a true spa to rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit after some play on the 18 hole golf course.
Moving north up the coast to County Clare there is the magnificent Dromoland Castle Hotel, one of Ireland's finest castle hotels which can trace its ownership back through history to Gaelic Irish families of royal heritage. The castle offers deluxe accommodation surrounded by breath-taking scenery, absolute luxury and exceptional service. Its international reputation for excellence is reflected in its award-winning cuisine in both the Earl of Thomond and Fig Tree restaurants. Other facilities include fishing, shooting, horse riding, a health and leisure spa, and a newly designed 18-hole championship golf course.

Moving slightly further north on the banks of the Shannon there is the Glasson Golf Hotel and Country Club. This lakeside hotel and championship golf course offers 29 luxury bedrooms designed with the discerning golfer and leisure guest in mind.
And the northern part of the island is not short on luxury golfing breaks either. Standing on the wooded slopes of the Holywood hills overlooking Belfast Lough is the magnificent Culloden Hotel. Originally built as an official palace for the Bishop of Down, the hotel stands in its own 12 acre estate and the Elysium Spa offers a full range of health and leisure facilities. Close by is the beautiful Holywood golf course with its breathtaking views over Belfast Lough the hilly parkland course is a real treasure and is ideally placed for the travelling golfer who wants to take full advantage of its great location.
County Derry boasts the Radisson SAS Roe Park Hotel in Limavady. This modern well equipped hotel and golf resort is set on a historic nineteenth century estate with an emphasis on quality cuisine and large spacious bedrooms well suited to families.
Back towards Belfast is the Templepatrick Hilton Hotel, winner of the Northern Ireland Tourism Award for Hotel of the Year 2006. Set in 220 acres of parkland and appointed with all the luxuries and amenities you expect from a Hilton Hotel the Templepatrick has a golf course, a health-club and modern conference and banqueting facilities.

Finally, no mention of luxury golf breaks in Ireland is complete without The K Club, the venue for the 2006 Ryder Cup Matches and Ireland’s first five red star resort located just 35 minutes from Dublin City and Airport. This elegantly restored country house opened in 1991 as a luxurious hotel and country club and offers the highest standards of comfort, service and cuisine. Each of our 92 bedrooms and suites has stunning views overlooking the golf course and gardens.
The Health and Beauty Club, fishing on the River Liffey and lakes, claypigeon shooting, tennis, squash and a gym are some of the activities available at The K Club – not to mention the golf, of course.
These are just a few of Ireland’s many luxury golfing destinations – to find out more about these and the many others contact your local Tourist Information Office or log on to http://www.discoverireland.com/.

Source: JustLuxe

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Hotelier set to build luxury resort for upmarket campers

Hotelier and television personality John Brennan will apply for planning permission for a luxury camping resort in Kerry later this month.The hotelier, who runs the Park, an exclusive hotel in Kenmare, said the proposed new venture would cater for users of recreational vehicles (RVs) and those interested in ‘glamping’ - or upmarket camping.The new venture is expected to deliver between 25 and 30 jobs by April 2012.Brennan and his wife, Gwen, bought Dromquinna Manor and the surrounding 38 acres in Kenmare in a deal that was completed in April. They are understood to have paid under €2 million for the property and Brennan said they expected to spend another €1million on revamping it and developing new facilities.Work has begun on the site and Brennan said about €1 million would be spent on the first phase of development.‘‘We are doing up the manor to cater for conferences and weddings.We are creating the glamping site; revamping the boathouse wine bar and bistro, and applying for planning permission to open a dedicated RV park," he said Brennan will seek planning permission for 95 units - 35 luxury safari tents and 60 spaces for RVs.He said figures from Fáilte Ireland showed that some 34,000 RVs circulate in Ireland on an annual basis - including those that come in from abroad. He said the tents would be ‘‘adapted and modified to suit our climate.They will be luxurious fit-outs and will be on level decks. Each will command a view and they will all be secluded."Brennan said the site would be low-density and that RVs would get four times the space allocated to them in traditional campsites. Brennan runs the five-star Park Hotel in Kenmare along with his brother Francis.He said the manor house at Dromquinna had a ballroom that can cater for functions of up to 180 people.‘‘We have done 12 ‘ show arounds’ and eight couples booked. That is a phenomenal conversion rate and that is because the manor is such a nice building and the setting is just stunning," Brennan said.He plans to revamp 12 bedrooms in the manor and open them in 2013. He also plans tie-ins with existing business like the Seafari, Star Sailing, horse riding, golf and a range of other facilities in Kenmare and along the Ring of Kerry.‘‘This will be a resort as opposed to a campsite. It will be a luxurious destination that will largely cater for people who want to stay for up to two weeks as opposed to stay for a night or two before moving on," Brennan said.

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Information for Kenmare trip advisor

Things to do, places to stay,

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Cappanacuss Cottage in Kenmare

Amongst the verdant splendour of the unspoiled Kerry countryside, with its birdsong and smell of wild flowers, nestles this comfortable holiday retreat. Set in an elevated position the cottage enjoys breathtaking views over the Beara Peninsula and the Atlantic Ocean. This is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the wonderful, natural surroundings. The small sandy beach at Cuss Strand is a 10 minute walk and just over a mile away is a lovely golf course with spectacular views. There is also salmon, trout and sea fishing, horse riding and country walks in the area. The charming heritage town of Kenmare is just 4.5 miles with music pubs and award winning restaurants. Pub with traditional music 2.5 miles. Shop 2.5 miles, pub 1 mile.All on ground floor: Living room. Dining room/kitchen. 4 bedrooms: 2 double, 2 single. Bathroom with shower over bath and toilet.Open fire in living room (fuel available locally). Oil CH and elec (€55pw). Bed linen and towels inc. Cot. H/chair. Video. DVD/CD and large library. M/wave. W/machine. T/dryer. D/washer. Large, mature, south facing lawned garden with furniture. Ample parking.

Source: Read More

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Kenmare Bay Hotel Holiday Homes

The Kenmare Bay Holiday Homes are situated on the grounds of the Kenmare Bay Hotel. Enjoy all the facilities that the hotel has to offer, Leisure Centre, Kids Club, Playground, Bar, Restaurant combined with the comforts of your own home.

HOLIDAY HOMES
Each bright and spacious 2-storey house has been designed to deliver furnishings of casual elegance, enduring quality, comfort and style. Custom made upholstered furniture, luxury drapes and window dressings, a combination of marble and carpet flooring with antique rugs, elegant dining facilities and premium linens for bedrooms creates an atmosphere of irresistible comfort and impeccable taste. All Holiday Homes are furnished to a 4 star standard.
The spacious lounge is tastefully furnished and contains a Solid Fuel fireplace, flat screen Multi Channel TV, DVD, Cd Player and Luxurious Comfortable Sofas. The open plan kitchen/dining area has a sunny aspect and plenty of space. The Cherry Wood kitchen is fully fitted and well equipped with all the modern conveniences such as electric cooker, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, washer/dryer and microwave. All necessary kitchen utensils and crockery are provided. French Doors from the Kitchen leads out on the back garden with picnic table and gas barbeque facilities for the summer months.
Upstairs comprises of a double bedroom with ensuite facilities and one twin bedroom and one single bedroom. Each bedroom has more than adequate storage space. There is a main bathroom upstairs with toilet, hand basin, shower and bath. There is a fold out sofa bed couch in the downstairs sitting room for extra guests.
There is 1 x holiday home that is wheelchair accessible - please enquire by calling +353 64 6641170 or email info@dreamireland.com
Secure parking is provided for each house. The houses are heated with electric central heating.
Electricity for heating and lighting is included in your rate.
In addition, all bed linen and towels are provided. There is one Travel Cot & High Chair available in each property. Cot Linen is not supplied.
FREE ACCESS TO ONSITE LEISURE FACILITIES FOR HOLIDAY HOME GUESTS:
Guests in the holiday homes can use all the facilities of the Hotel including:
20m Swimming Pool
Children's Pool
Fully equipped gym with extensive range of fitness equipment for all levels of fitness & training
Sauna
Steam Room
Jacuzzi
Rejuvination Suites with a wide range of beauty & holistic treatments available *
* Treatments are an additional charge, payable onsite
Strollers for Rent
If you can't fit your stroller (buggy) into your car or your travelling by air you can rent one at Precious Moments, Call Pauline on 064 6642578.
LOCAL ACTIVITIES
Kenmare lies approximately 30 minutes drive from a host of sandy beaches and it has a very pretty harbour from where you can swim, fish or take a trip on the "Seafari Cruise" to view the wildlife in the area.
Bike Hire
Located in the centre of Kenmare is Finnegan's Bike Hire and Toy Shop Tel: 00353 64 6641083
Star Sailing & Adventure Centre
New to Kenmare is the wonderful Star Sailing & Adventure Centre situated on the shores of Kenmare Bay and surrounded by the Caha Mountains just a five minute drive from Kenmare Town Centre. The range of activities includes Sailing, Kayaking, Sea Kayaking, Windsurfing, Hillwalking, Boat Trips and much more. There is something to suit all the family.
Golf
Kenmare boasts two super golf courses. The Ring of Kerry Golf Course is located two miles outside of the town and offers spectacular views of Kenmare Bay from the course itself and also its newly renovated Club House.
Kenmare Golf Club is located in Kenmare Town and follows the shores of Kenmare Bay Estuary.
AnglingThere are lots of great fishing spots to choose from around Kenmare including Clonee Lake, Kenmare Bay and the Black Valley. Permits can be obtained locally.
Hill WalkingThe Kerry Way and Beara Way walking routes are ideal for those with an interest in trekking or you could even join the annual summer hike to Ireland's highest mountain, Carrauntouhil. The foothills of the famous MacGillycuddy Reeks are right on Kenmare's doorstep.
DivingKenmare and its vicinity offers some incredible dive spots and wrecks. You may even be lucky enough to come across a dolphin or two. Try-dives are available for beginners and advanced dives for the more experienced. For more information visit http://www.kenmarebaydiving.com/.
Pony TrekkingPony Trekking is the ideal way to explore the hidden treasures of Kenmare and its hinterland. Professional lessons are also available for beginners.
Other activities in the area include quad biking, pet farms, craft workshops and bicycle hire.
KENMARE
Kenmare is known as the jewel in the Ring of Kerry and no wonder with its location between two of the most beautiful touring routes in Europe - the Ring of Kerry and the Ring of Beara. These make for very enjoyable day trips from Kenmare.
Kenmare is a designated Heritage Town of Ireland and the town offers a huge selection of places of historical interest to visit. Even strolling around the town is itself a pleasure with Kenmare having received awards from Entente Floral and the award for the Tidiest Town in Ireland in the year 2000.
Killarney is a 40 minute drive and Cork City is just over an hour's drive.
DINING & NIGHTLIFE
The town of Kenmare, noted for having the cleanest air in Europe, is a mecca for some of the finest restaurants in Ireland. You really will be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining out, from bar food to seafood and a range of other types of excellent restaurants to experience. The nightlife in Kenmare suits all ages and the hospitality with which you will be greeted is second to none. There is a great selection of pubs and late night bars to choose from with many featuring live music from traditional Irish to rock and modern styles.

Source: For more information
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A wet day at the Reeks

GO IRELAND : It may not be his idea of a perfect day out, but BRIAN O'CONNELL enjoys his first-ever hiking experience on Kerry’s highest mountain
FOR SOME people, the perfect way to mark the weekend is to pull on a muddy pair of hiking boots and hit the great outdoors. I’m not one of those people. Suffering from a fear of heights and general physical exertion while on holidays, my idea of a day out is a day in.
So, it was with a certain sense of trepidation and reluctance I went on my first-ever hiking experience in Ireland a few weekends back as part of a new initiative in Kerry entitled “Trek on the Reeks”.
Some of Kerry’s best and most experienced walking guides are running bi-monthly Saturday outings from now until September, giving visitors a low-budget way to experience the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. The full-day treks include Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain, which is a Category A trek and ideal for regular hillwalkers who have prior high peak experience or also those who want to experience mountain climbing for the first time.
We set out one Saturday at 9.30am, from the Malton Hotel, where staff had lunches waiting for us at reception. The hotel has noticed a large increase in walking groups and other outdoor enthusiasts in recent years and as a result has sought to tailor overnight packages accordingly, with later dinner settings available, storage space for canoes or bikes, and assistance with accommodation for groups.
Duty manager Mark Bowe says that from May to September there is now a strong walking or hiking market in Killarney and that many hotels are beginning to capitalise on this. It has also led to greener policies being introduced in some hotels. “We are going green with our own vegetable patch and poly-tunnel and are currently building our own herb garden,” says Bowe. “We’re taking about 200,000 tonnes of carbon out of the environment this year by reducing energy use here. Partly that is driven by the visitors, such as walking tours, who are very conscious of the environment.”
The first mistake I made was arriving with the wrong clothing. I learned pretty quickly that a denim shirt and a pair of cords are not quite mountaineering attire. Thankfully, in Cronin’s Yard, one of the traditional starting points for taking on the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, our guides Niall Keogh and Michael O’Connor introduced me to experienced climber John Cronin, who was able to lend me some proper gear, including a decent jacket and waterproof trousers.
The weather starting out was overcast, but otherwise looked fine, and we joined many other climbers heading up O’Shea’s Gully through one of the most iconic ascents on Carrauntoohil. Along the way there were tourists, students, groups, couples and individual walkers heading in the same direction, and while many of them were setting out on their own, it was reassuring to be in the company of experienced guides leading the way.
One frustration with the mountains, though, was that signage was pretty much non-existent (much of the land is privately owned) and so had I set out on my own, I felt it would have been difficult to identify landmarks. Our hope was to complete about a quarter of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks ridge walk, and we reckoned it would take about seven hours to go up and down the route.
Along the way, we were told about the history of the area and given some insights into the flora and fauna of this part of Kerry from O’Connor, who recently retired from his day job to concentrate on leading tours through the mountains.
“We give a bit of lake, lore and legend and like to have a chat about the countryside and whatever plants are in season,” says O’Connor. “We’ll always talk about the weather, of course. And we look a bit at the effect of the ice age on the area. We can see into Kenmare Bay and Dingle Bay as well as north Cork from the top of the mountain on a clear day.”
O’Connor points out that tourists have been coming to this part of Kerry since the Victorian era, with these 19th century visitors having named the Devil’s Ladder area of the mountain. The 1851 census records families living on the mountains, and during our climb we saw evidence of the stone walls of their settlement. At one time, even an Royal Irish Constabulary barracks was placed at the Gap of Dunloe, to aid travellers going through. “It was there to guard them from what one newspaper of the time called ‘unlicensed guides selling illicit potions and lotions and soliciting jobs’,” says O’Connor.
An hour into our walk and the weather had suddenly turned quite nasty. The wind picked up considerably and the rain was becoming heavy, especially on the higher ground. We had made it to the foot of the Devil’s Ladder, past an area known as the Hag’s Glen, and had to make a call on whether or not it was safe to continue.
The temperature at the top of the mountain can be significantly lower than at the bottom and the high winds were likely to make some areas of the climb treacherous. While our guide considered the options, adolescent French tourists in jeans and T-shirts scrambled past.
Despite the conditions, the scenery was stunning, but many climbers were turning back and reassessing their positions. The 10 climbers in our group collectively, with the help of the guide’s advice, decided to turn back. I was glad, as despite the assuring presence of O’Connor, it had stopped being fun as the wind and rain picked up and it became difficult to maintain footing.
I could only marvel at other groups who kept pressing on up the mountain, including two troupes of boy scouts. One girl scrambled past wearing hot pants.
Within an hour, we were back in Cronin’s Yard, where John Cronin was serving up bowls of hot soup and cups of tea. We took showers, put on warm socks and sat in beside the radiator. Tom Crean was probably turning in his grave.

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Outdoors Ireland

Ancient Coach Trail, The Main Route Between Killarney & Kenmare At One Stage Bronze Age Stone Circle In Kenmare Town. Labels: Hiking Trails Kerry, Ireland ...

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MarDelDance in Kenmare Ireland

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Dromard - Kenmare's finest rental villa

Property Details
A beautifully located spacious and luxurious four bedroom private house situated on a one acre site with stunning views of Kenmare Bay and the surrounding mountains of County Kerry, Ireland.

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Ardmullen Cottage Family Cottage

Holiday home

This modern, semi-detached town house is centrally located just one mile from the town of Kenmare, in County Kerry. The impressive accommodation is composed of three bedrooms, a sitting room with open fire and a large, well-equipped kitchen with dining area. Outside, guests can enjoy the attractive lawned garden. A cot, high chair and stair gate are all available on request, and with off-road parking for two cars, this property is a wonderful place for a holiday with extended family.AreaSituated on the stunning Bay of Kenmare and overlooking the gleaming Atlantic Ocean, this lovely settlement is an ideal place for a relaxing holiday. With incredible beaches, wildlife and spectacular scenery, this rugged coastline surrounds the town of Kenmare. This interesting community, full of character and colour, boasts long winding streets packed with farmer’s markets, galleries, boutiques and some of the best restaurants in Ireland. Close by is the famous town of Killarney, as is the National Park, just 35 minutes drive away. The Beara and Dingle Peninsulas are also nearby whilst a visit to the Ring of Kerry should be an essential part of every trip.RegionCounty Kerry is a mystical and unspoilt part of Ireland, with spectacular natural beauty and a fascinating history. Facing the Atlantic Ocean, it features many sandy beaches, rocky inlets and stunning peninsulas.AmenitiesFull oil central heating with additional heating from open fire in sitting room. Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, washing machine, tumble dryer, dishwasher, colour TV, DVD player on request. Oil and electricity charged from meter reading, fuel for open fire available to purchase locally. Bed linen and towels inc. in rent. Cot, highchair and stairgate available. Off road parking for 2 cars. Enclosed, lawned garden with garden furniture. Sorry, no pets and no smoking. Shop and pub 10 mins walk.

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4 Bell Heights Apartments Coastal Cottage in Kenmare

Holiday home

This comfortable and spacious apartment is located on the first floor, conveniently close to the popular tourist town of Kenmare, in County Kerry. This apartment has been well furnished and boasts an open plan living area with balcony and bay views. With two good-size bedrooms – one en-suite double and one twin – this is an ideal location for a family vacation. For rainy days, the apartment comes with Sky TV and a DVD player, whilst outside there is off-road parking for several cars.AreaSituated on the stunning Bay of Kenmare, this picturesque town overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and boasts beautiful beaches, wildlife and scenery. The rugged coastline and sandy beaches make this an incredibly diverse destination. Kenmare itself is an interesting town with long winding streets that play host to farmer’s markets, galleries, boutiques and some of the best restaurants in Ireland. The famous town of Killarney is also close by and boasts an abundance of attractions of its own. These include an array of pubs, festivals and the National Park - just 35 minutes drive away. Both the Beara and Dingle Peninsulas are close by whilst the Ring of Kerry is within easy driving distance.RegionCounty Kerry is a mystical and unspoilt part of Ireland, with spectacular natural beauty and a fascinating history. Facing the Atlantic Ocean, it features many sandy beaches, rocky inlets and stunning peninsulas.AmenitiesElectric and underfloor heating, with additional heating from solid fuel stove in sitting room. Electric oven, hob and grill, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, tumble dryer, colour TV (local TV channels), DVD player. All fuel and power inc. in rent. Bed linen and towels inc. in rent. Cot and highchair available on request. Communal off road parking in front of property, with space for several cars. Balcony with outdoor furniture. Sorry, no pets and no smoking. Shops, pubs and coastline only 5 mins walk.

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Self Catering

Book direct self-catering holiday accommodation in Kenmare, County Kerry, Kerry, Ireland by selfcatering.travel.

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