Kenmare is a planned town founded in 1670 by Sir William Petty and has a population of approximately 2000. Kenmare is also known in Gaelic as "Neidin" (Little Nest) as the town nestles among the Kerry hills it is situated at the head of Kenmare Bay which is the longest inlet in Ireland and is very scenic. Its shores are washed by the Gulf Stream which gives a mild climate.
The Irish Tourist Board officially recognised the historical significance of Kenmare and bestowed upon it the title of Kerrys first heritage town. The heritage centre is located in the town centre.
Kenmare is an ideal base for touring the South West of Ireland. To mention just a few tours, Ring of Kerry, Ring of Beara, Muckross House, Bantry House. The scenery is difficult to equal, its unique beauty and wildeness needs to be experienced in order to be understood.
Kenmare caters for a wide range of interests. Golfers, anglers, cyclists, walkers, equestrian, pitch and putt, divers amd scenic cruises on Kenmare Bay. It has also got plenty of shops, cafes, pubs, galleries etc. and some excellent award winning restaurants. Wednesday is the outdoor market day in Kenmare and has many colourful stalls to browse through.
Directions to Kenmare
From Cork to Killarney road (N22) take the R569 to Kenmare or via (N71) scenic route. Kenmare is accessible by air through Shannon, Cork and Kerry Airports.
Distance From
| Dublin | 336km |
| Cork | 96km |
| Kerry Airport | 48km |
| Limerick | 144km |
| Shannon | 176km |
| Galway | 248km |
