Sightseeing & local attractions

Welcome to our guide for our family trip around Kerry. From scenic coastlines to historical landmarks and cozy pub corners, here is everything to discover right on our doorstep in Killarney, Cahersiveen and across the Ring of Kerry. Everyone can pick what suits their pace.

Killarney

Killarney offers a wonderful range of activities for all ages, surrounded by the beautiful scenery of Killarney National Park. You can enjoy scenic walks, cycling routes, picnics and views across the lakes, mountains and woodlands. The Gap of Dunloe is a must-see in the National Park. A visit to Killarney House and Gardens is a relaxing way to experience the area’s natural beauty.

You can explore Ross Castle, a fifteenth-century fortress on the shores of Lough Leane, and discover Muckross House and Gardens, a magnificent Victorian estate. Muckross Traditional Farms offer an enjoyable and interactive experience for families, with traditional buildings, farm animals and demonstrations.

Torc Waterfall can be reached by a short woodland walk, while boat trips on the lakes and traditional jaunting-car tours provide memorable ways to see the landscape. In the town itself, you can browse the shops, enjoy cafés and restaurants, and experience the friendly atmosphere of traditional Irish pubs.

Activities at the Europe Hotel

The Europe hotel offers a number of free experiences and activities such as short horse riding in the gardens, tennis, pool and activity level featuring an indoor-outdoor pool, sauna, and steam rooms.

Spa activities such as massages and facials will be organized based on interest. Their spa level offers gender-specific private relaxation areas which include an outdoor heated pool, sauna, steam room and relaxation room.

They have four bar and lounges along with three restaurants on site.

Other activities can be organized through the hotel such as boating, kayaking and fishing from their pier and golfing.

Discovering Cahersiveen

Right in town, delve into history with the Old Barracks, Cahergal stone fort, and the Daniel O'Connell heritage trail. Walkers can tackle scenic routes such as Cnoc na d'Tobar, the Castlequin loop, and the Beentee loop. Smaller walking routes include Kimego forestry loop and beaches around the area. If you fancy a dip, safe swimming awaits at Cuas Crom, White Strand, Ballinkelligs Beach and Reenroe Beach, or quiet river wading close to our house (please do not swim in the Fertha River or the Marina in Cahersiveen as the river is tidal and has deadly currants). Local Gin and Whiskey tasting can be arranged at the local SkelligSix18 Distillery or Portmagee Whiskey. For an evening pub or music sessions, stop into local favourites like Mike Murt's, Frank's, or Craineen's.

Valentia Island & Portmagee

Just across the water lies Valentia Island, birthplace of the transatlantic telegraph cable. Explore Bray Head, the dramatic slate quarry, prehistoric tetrapod footprints, and the Valentia Island lighthouse, followed by homemade ice cream in Knightstown. Nearby in Portmagee, you can join boat tours around or onto the iconic Skellig Michael islands, or enjoy lunch overlooking the vibrant fishing harbour.

Ballinskelligs, Waterville & beyond

Ballinskelligs features a broad sandy beach, historic castle ruins, a beach-side cafe and traditional music sessions at Rosie's pub. In Waterville, wander the seaside promenade, challenge the world-class Waterville Golf Links, and relax at The Lobster or The Fisherman's. Further afield, explore Derrynane house and gardens with lunch at The Blind Piper, or join group outings to Sneem and Kenmare. Horse Riding is available at Rossbeigh Beach or near Kenmare. Kells Gardens offers stunning tropical plants in a micro-climate along with a famed rope bridge. South Kerry is a Dark Sky Reserve, so on clear nights it is ideal to stargaze outside of town. Other activities such as golf, fishing or hunting can also be organized. Let us know your choices so we can arrange group buses and advance bookings.