Hannah
15 January 2017
Lucy, the knowledgeable owner of Bonane House our luxurious family home near Kenmare in County Kerry, has put together an inspired suggestion of itineraries to make the most of a break to this beautiful part of Ireland. With so many exciting things to see and do close to the house, she has narrowed down some of her favourite ways to spend a family day out.
Bonane House, Co. Kerry, Ireland - sleeps 8
Enjoy breathtaking views at the Gougane Barra
Drive the Priest’s Leap, which reveals spectacular panoramic views of the Bantry Bay. Have lunch at Mannings Emporium in Ballylicky or The Stuffed Olive in Bantry. When your bellies are full, head to the Gougane Barra, which has many cycling and walking routes. The scenery in this area is breathtaking and offers the perfect location for relaxing in peace and tranquility. After lots of photo opportunities, return home through the Caha Pass, calling by Lorge Chocolatier for some incredible chocolate.
Explore the local town of Kenmare
Explore Kenmare and visit the Pier with its amazing view across the Kenmare Bay. Walk around Reenagross Nature Park, then lunch in the Purple Heather or Poffs. Browse the local shops (Nest is one of our favourites) and galleries. Market day is Wednesday, and if guests are here mid-week it’s a good day to head into town as the market showcases delicious local produce and collectibles. Grab a coffee in Puccini’s whilst browsing their books and enjoy over 50 flavours of ice cream from Kenmare Ice Cream. Before heading home we recommend visiting Vanilla Grape and picking up a bottle of wine from Alain’s well curated selection. Tell him what you like and he'll offer some great suggestions.
Indulge in fresh fish at Kilmackillogue harbour
Gleninaquin Park
Drive to Gleninchaquin Park and follow one of the walking routes that takes in the stunning waterfalls. There is also a lovely pebbly beach nearby. Then take the coastal road to Kilmackillogue, head to the small harbour and have lunch at Helen’s Bar (the specialty is local organic mussels). Next, follow the coastal road to Lauragh and explore Derreen Gardens. Winding paths pass through woodland and subtropical gardens with views of the sea and mountains. There is a lovely coffee shop here and Pedals and Boots a little further up the road offer bike hire for further exploring. Return home via the inland road to take in great views of the bay. Pass by the Sailors Bar, a great stop for a drink or dinner.
A relaxing stroll around Killarney National Park
Take the old road to Killarney from Kenmare (part of the Ring of Kerry) and visit, Killarney National Park and the Lakes of Killarney (there is a great children’s playground in the National Park). There are other popular sites here like Muckross House, Ross Castle and a variety of boat tours of the lakes.
Try local produce in Cork City
Indulge in a day trip to Cork City to visit the English Market; take the cool box and stock up the fridge. There is great produce here and it's one of our favourite places to visit.
Be mesmerised by dramatic scenery at The Skellig Ring
Travel North to the beaches of Dingle Bay and The Skellig Ring, named as one of the Top Ten Regions by Lonely Planet in its Best in Travel 2017. The Skellig Ring has also recently been used as one of the dramatic locations in the latest Star Wars film, The Last Jedi.
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