Tralee is 15 minutes drive from Sir Rogers
Siamsa Tire
The home of the National Folk Theatre of Ireland, Siamsa Tire brings together locals and visitors from all over the world to enjoy the best of Irish culture through music, song and dance. During the summer months they have an excellent show on every night which tells a story of rural Ireland long ago through music, song, mime and dance.
Kerry County Museum
With over 4,000 objects in its collection, the museum aims to collect, preserve display and communicate material relating to the archaeological, historical and culture heritage of County Kerry and re-creation of medieval Tralee. It is also a great option for families, especially on a wet day. The tourist office is also located in the same building and is open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm.
Blennerville Windmill
The 200-year -old working windmill is the centrepiece of a major attraction on the shores of Tralee Bay. This is an historic place and was the main port of emigration to North America during the great Famine. The famine museum here is of particular interest to guests from overseas.
A Night at the Dogs
This action-packed evening at Kingdom Greyhound Stadium combines unbeatable atmosphere, amazing food, great craic and top-class racing which will make you want to come back again and again. It’s a great night time activity for families as the kids love betting on the races and the minimum bet is just €2 so it won’t break the bank!
Golf
Tralee provides a spectacular setting for golfers of all levels with an Arnold Palmer-designed course at Barrow which is widely acclaimed as one of the finest links courses in the world.
Aqua Dome
During the day the Aqua Dome is busy with families having fun swimming, splashing, sliding etc. However, in the evening it tends to be quieter and is lovely to go for a relaxing swim. The highlight for adults is the Vitality Suite. Here there is a tropical Sauna, Scandinavian Sauna, Sea Salt Steam room and standard steam room. There is a plunge pool to cool your down between each one and full length heated loungers and seats to relax on afterwards. It’s well worth a visit.
Tralee Town Park
is in the center of Tralee town and is lovely to take a walk around. During the summer months when the roses are in bloom the scents and colours are spectacular. It is the 2nd biggest Rose Garden in Ireland. Dogs are allowed on leads. It also has a large playground. It is also host to the Park Run 5k and Junior Park Run 2k on Saturday and Sunday mornings.
Shopping
We are lucky to have so many big brand shops in Tralee These include Debenhams, TK Maxx, Next, Shaws, Swamp, Veromoda & Pamela Scotts. Not to mention a very large and well-appointed Pennys, which is almost a tourist attraction in itself! Tralee is a great place to shop and our guests are often laden down with bags after a trip into town!
Dingle
A day out on the Dingle Peninsula should be at the top of your to do list in Kerry.
Passing through the villages of Blennerville and Camp, you can either stay on the main road or take the Scenic ‘Conor Pass’ to Dingle. This is the highest mountain road in Ireland the view from the top are magnificent, on a clear day. This route is not recommended for motorhomes as its quite a narrow, windy and twisty road with overhanging rocks. The views from the road are breath-taking, as the glaciated landscape of mountains and corrie lakes comes into view.
From the scenic carpark at the summit there are views as far as the Aran Islands off County Galway.
Descending into the colourful village of Dingle you can stop off and enjoy the many great bars and restaurants. There are lots of local craft makers in Dingle and you can pick up some nice, well made genuine souvenirs in the many craft shops.
A trip around Dingle bay on one of the boats to catch a glimpse of Fungi the Dolphin was a must do for families. Unfortunately Fungi has left us, but a boat tour of the bay is still a lovely way to acquaint yourself with Dingle. There are many boats leaving from the Pier that offer these boat trips.
On leaving Dingle, the Drive passes over Milltown Bridge, past the woodlands at Burnham to the seaside village of Ventry. The long, curved strand is a blue flag beach and offers a safe venue for bathing and water sports.
On leaving Ventry the Drive continues westward, past Dunbeg Fort, and continuing with a sheer cliff on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. At Fahan the road crosses a ford.
The Drive now reaches Slea Head itself, marked by a stone crucifixion scene, with dramatic views to South Kerry and the Blasket Islands.
You now follow the coast north, past Coumenoole Strand, where some of the filming of Ryan’s Daughter took place, to Dún Chaoin. It is possible to board a passenger ferry to the Great Blasket / An Blascaod Mór from Dún Chaoin pier.
You continue north and east from Dún Chaoin through wild open countryside, moving inland to the village of Baile an Fheirtéaraigh / Ballyferriter. The village has a number of bars, a shop and is the site of the Corca Dhuibhne Regional Museum.
The Drive now moves eastward, passing close to a number of ancient monuments, such as the excavated early Christian site at Reasc, and Gallarus Oratory.
You will next arrive at the fishing village of Baile na nGall/Ballydavid. On leaving the village the drive again follows a cliff-top route, with a dramatic seascape of crashing waves, rocks and seabirds below.
At An Fheothanach/Feohanagh a bridge is crossed and the route brings you to Cuas an Bhodaigh or Brandon Creek. This inlet was the legendary starting point of the voyage of St Brendan to America, centuries before Columbus.
The Drive now turns south and runs along the base of Mount Brandon, the second highest mountain in Ireland. A pilgrimage route to the mountain’s summit begins near here.
You then re-join the main road south to Dingle, passing over a hill’s crest at Ballinlochaigh and arriving back at the entrance to the town.
On the way back to Tralee its nice to stop off at The South Pole Inn, in Annascaul, for some refreshments. It was once owned by Tom Crean, the Antartic Explorer and inside the pub there is lots of memorabilia from his travels.
Killarney
Killarney is a wonderful day out and well worth a visit. Here is just a selection of the most popular things to do and see there.
Head to the magnificent Killarney National Park! Walk, cycle, run or take a Jaunting Car (Pony and Trap) through this vast, majestic park and spot a deer from the last remaining indigenous herd of Wild Red Deer in Ireland that roam here freely!
Only a short distance from Killarney town, take a Pony and Trap along the winding, scenic mountain pass of the Gap of Dunloe which allows you to truly immerse in the spectacular beauty of the area. Don’t forget to make a wish standing on the ‘Wishing Bridge’, a picturesque old bridge that folklore says will make your wishes come true! From here you descend into the remote Black Valley and onto Lord Brandons Cottage, an old Victorian hunting lodge and now a lovely Cafe.
A short stroll from Lord Brandons, you can return to Killarney on one of the world’s oldest tourist boat trips, the 250 year old journey from Lord Brandon’s Cottage to Ross Castle on the lakes of Killarney. This is bar far one of the most memorable tours in Killarney and tour operators can arrange the entire trip, it will not disappoint!
Visit the exquisite 19th Century Victorian Mansion, Muckross House and Gardens that are set amidst the breathtaking beauty of Killarney National Park. The Muckross Traditional Farms nearby also allow you to step back into time and explore three working farms and discover the rural way of life in Ireland of the 1930’s and 1940’s.
Only a short walk from Muckross House you can explore the tranquil ruins of Muckross Abbey, the 15th Century Friary located off the picturesque shores of Lough Leane and within Killarney National Park. Home to the only Franciscan Tower in Ireland, a striking and magnificent ancient yew tree rises from the centre of the vaulted cloisters of Muckross Abbey said to be over years old. The Abbey itself is well preserved so that visitors can also view some of the upper floors which served as the monks living quarters.
Explore the 15th Century Tower House, Ross Castle, which overlooks the picturesque Lough Leane. Many boat trips and water cruises embark from here including the short boat trip to Innisfalllen Island. One of Killarneys best walks is popular among local and visitors, a loop walk takes you on the trail of the some of the worlds oldest Copper Mines and open mine shafts which date back to 2400 BC, thats nearly 4,500 years old. The trail include the fabulous scenic viewing points of Governors Rock and Library Point on Ross Island, with stunning views of the Killarney Lakes, Mangerton and Torc Mountains to the south and Purple, Tomies and Shehy Mountains to the west. You can also walk from Ross Castle to the town centre via the picturesque Knockrear area of the National Park.
Take the short walk from the car park to Torc Waterfall and bask in the beauty of one of Killarneys gems. Situated just 5 miles outside Killarney, the Waterfall is at it’s best after heavy rainfall. From here you can also walk the wooded steps up the mountain slopes. One of the best and most scenic ways to see Torc Waterfall is to park in the Dinis Cottage Car Park, off the N71 Ring of Kerry Road, only a short distance away. From here you cross the road and take on the now famous ‘Cardiac Steps’ trail, the name is self explanatory.
Pubs and Restaurants
Banna, Ardfert, Ballyheigue and Tralee all have a wonderful selection to suit all tastes.
Banna Beach Hotel has a beautiful on-site Bar & Restaurant which is the perfect resting, entertaining and dining spot. This self contained holiday village boasts a variety of holiday homes, gymnasium, swimming pool, astro turf pitches, basketball court, playground, bars, supermarket and surfing facilities.
From individuals, families to groups, children to adults Banna Beach family holiday resort caters for everyone and every weather condition!
- Free Wi-Fi access
- O’Shea’s Bar & Restaurant
- Fully Equipped Self Catering Accommodation
- Leisure Centre including Gym, Fitness Studio & Swimming Pool
- Children’s play area
- On-Site Shop
- Astro Turf Pitch & Basketball Court
Kate Browne’s is a family run pub and restaurant serving good honest Irish fare with a modern touch. Located in the historic village of Ardfert, ten minutes north of Tralee, we’re a must visit on the Wild Atlantic Way. The traditional thatched roof, open fires and roughly plastered walls add to the rustic charm and warm welcome. They offer our full a la carte menu and daily specials for both Lunch and Dinner from 12noon to 10pm 7 days a week.
Kate Browne’s is a traditional, thatched cottage style pub and restaurant with open turf fires and traditional music. Located in the Cathedral village of Ardfert, 8kms from Tralee Town Centre and 3kms from Banna Beach. Children are welcome and colouring books, crayons and children’s menus are provided. Kate Browne’s has ample seating and parking.
The Cearnog, or Square Bar, in Tralee town square is a nice cosy bar with a heated outdoor area at the front which is ideal for dog lovers as you can bring the dog and drink outside.
The Grand Hotel on Denny St does excellent bar food. Expect big portions of typical Irish food.
Baileys Corner is a traditional pub with live music every night. The staff have a warm welcome for everyone and it’s as popular with the locals as it is with tourists.
Spa Seafoods is a few kilometres outside of town but is well worth the journey for fish lovers. Ask for a sea view table when booking. You can watch the sun set over the Atlantic as you eat the freshly caught fish.
Bella Bia is a simple but long established Italian Restaurant. You won’t go wrong here and it’s very convenient for a pre theatre meal as Siamsa Tire theatre is across the road.
Pomo Doro, another Italian in Tralee and has been recommended to us for the large selection gluten free meals.
Yummy Café is a great place to bring the kids for lunch. They do an excellent kids menu and have a kiddies play area in the corner where the kids can play.
For a good coffee head to the Roast House on Denny Street. It’s a lovely café with beautiful décor and a great lunch menu. Our choice for a lunch in town!
Walking
Ballyseedy Woods: The woods dates back at least to the 16th centruy when it was first mapped for Sir Edward Denny. Further planting took place by Col. J Blennerhassett in the early 18th century who had his castle nearby. Today, Ballyseedy is a sustainable woodland recreational amenity for the people of Kerry and visitors alike. It is a unique and tranquil retreat which extends to nearly 80 acres. It has at least 22 varieties of native trees and they are marked with their Gaelic and English names in the woods. As you wander along the Old Coach Road which served the Blennerhassett estate and plantation, look out for the majestic Ash, Oak and Beech trees – they have been frowing here for centuries. There are a number of ruins and folllies within the wood, dating back to the 17th century, with the River Lee (from which Tralee takes its name) forming the woodlands northern boundary.
Glanageenty Walk: Glanageenty is an area of mistery, myth and folklore, a wild and rugged landscape that was once the sanctuary to some famous heroes and bandits alike. It starts behind O’Riardas Bar near Castleisland and is a good hike with spectacular views of the county
The North Kerry Way: The North Kerry Way is a 48 kilometre linear walking route through the northern part of County Kerry, starting in the county town of Tralee and ending in the town of Ballyheigue.
The route heads out of Tralee with the Dingle Way to Blennerville with its fine traditional windmill: there the routes part and the North Kerry Way heads north west along a sea wall at the back of Tralee Bay.
From the village of Spa it goes cross country onto the white sands of Banna Strand to reach the village of Ballyheigue and the beginning of a scenic mountainous area on Kerry Head, which it loops around before finishing at Ballyheigue.
The terrain consists of mainly quiet country roads, firm beach sand (except at high tide), tracks, bog roads and field paths. The route is flat except for the last 18 kilometres where there are some short ascents, with an aggregate climb of 370 metres.
The Dingle Way: The Dingle peninsula, the northernmost of County Kerry’s peninsulas, stretches nearly 50 kilometres into the Atlantic, and is 21 kilometres wide at its broadest. It is a dramatic and varied landscape of coastal plains, sandy beaches, mountains and lakes.
The Dingle Way is a circular route beginning and ending in the town of Tralee that takes in all of these wonderments along the route. Leaving Tralee the route climbs onto the flanks of the Slieve Mish and contours westwards before crossing the peninsula to the scenic Inch beach on Dingle Bay. The route then meanders westwards by the villages of Anascaul and Lispole to the famed town of Dingle.
West of Dingle is the most dramatic part of the Way, an exciting coastal trek around the westernmost point of Ireland and a return leg over a saddle below Kerry’s holy mountain, Brandon, and on to Tralee by the shore.
The route is steeped in history and scattered with the ruins of ancient dwellings, forts, churches, and castles, and because of its circular layout, can be easily sampled in sections.
Glentanassig: This is a little hidden gem about 30mins outside Tralee. The unpaved road winds up through the forest where eventually you arrive at the lake. You can walk along the boardwalk around the lake. It’s ideal for kids as its good fun. You can park at the bottom and walk up to the lake if you are looking for a bigger challenge. See photo above of Glentanassig.
Mount Brandon: There are two ways to climb mount Brandon. The easy way and the hard way! Either way its an excellent mountain to climb with breath-taking views of Tralee Bay and the Atlantic from the top. The photo on the left was taken on the way back down Brandon.
Beaches
You are spoilt for choice of beaches in Kerry.
Banna Beach is an expansive sandy shore backed by wildlife-rich dunes, with mountain panoramas, surfing & swimming only minutes walk from Sir Rogers. Banna Beach is consistently voted one of the best beaches in Ireland and you can see why. The golden sands stretch for miles and miles and gentle Atlantic waves lap the shore. The views of the Dingle Peninsula and Kerry Head at either end are spectacular. On a wild day it’s a great place to clear your head with a brisk walk and watch the kite surfers in action!
When the sun shines why not visit the nearby fishing village of Fenit which has Irelands 2nd longest pier, ideal for fishing, or take a boat ride out to the lighthouse. There is also a state of the art playground beside the sheltered blue flag beach which is ideal for swimming, building sandcastles and skimming stones. Fenit really is the best kept secret of North Kerry.
You could also visit Ballyheigue beach, which is an extension of Banna beach and has the added bonus of a playground and a village with shops, bars etc.
Inch Beach was voted the best Beach in Ireland in 2018. It well worth a visit. You can drive right onto the beach but beware of soft sand and the rising tide. Its great for small children as the gentle waves are fun to splash in and the older kids can rent out surfboards and give surfing a go. It is about a 40min drive from our park.
Sandy Bay, at the maherees is another great spot. This is where you can rent out paddle boards, kayaks, have a go on the water trampolines etc. There is a big sand dune at the end of the beach which is brilliant fun to climb up and run, roll or fall down.
