The Best Things to Do in Kenmare

Known for its wide range of restaurants and traditional pubs, Kenmare sits along two major Irish tourist routes, the Ring of Kerry and the Ring of Beara. The town, whose name means "little nest," was founded in 1678 at the head of Kenmare Bay and boasts archeological remnants of its ancient roots. Though it was founded in the 17th century, the first settlement here goes back to the Bronze Age. Visit its stone circle (the largest in southwest Ireland), see Holy Cross Church, and take in bayside views. Be sure to walk the town streets lined with colorful buildings in search of great food and classic Irish pubs. In the build up to your vacation in Kenmare, plan trip itinerary minutiae using the visitor reviews, staff write-ups, and custom search fields on our Ireland road trip planning site.