Login

County Kerry

Today
11°C

Photo of County Kerry

About County Kerry

All our County Kerry collections:

Choosing the best places to stay in County Kerry is all about knowing what's pulling you most strongly towards this beautiful part of the world.

County Kerry's Ring of Kerry is a magical place of fog-shrouded mountains hiding old Celtic ruins and glacial lakes, which quickly dips to a coastline of wonderful wind-bashed cliffs. Painters flock here to attempt the ever-changing wonder of the light, folk singers wax lyrical and loud and tourists descend looking for ye olde Ireland. Kenmare is an excellent choice of base - a charming town at the head of Kenmare Bay.

As well as the Ring of Kerry, County Kerry is also home to some other names you might recognise; the Macgillycuddy Reeks, which is where you can find nine out of ten of Ireland's highest peaks and the Dingle Peninsula, a golden sand promontory which is Europe's most westerly point.

While you'll see plenty of tour buses and day trippers here, the way to see Kerry is at your leisure. Allowing time to stop when something catches your fancy - potentially when you see a shaft of light shining upon it from above, a meaningful gap in the clouds.

There are numerous stone ring ruins, Iron Age forts and small hamlets to catch your eye, as well as too many scenic lookouts to bother marking on a map.

County Kerry is also rich in foodie friendly pubs. The fish here is fresh off the Atlantic, like the winds, and Kerry lamb has an international reputation. Many pubs will also do a good evening's musical entertainment if you arrive on the right night.

You might want to make your way to the end of Europe, where you can look out across at the Skellig's, 200metre spires of rock which sit just off the coast. Unlikely as it may sound, Skellig Michael was once home to a community of monks, who lived here between the 6th and 13th Centuries, presumably eating a lot of seagulls in their creatively constructed cells.

What Not To Miss

  • You might want to visit Ross Castle, a 15th century tower house that's been the subject of a number of myths - including that of a ghost who still apparently reappears from time to time! Join in with a tour and wander around the place learning all about its history, whilst horse-drawn carriage rides are also available if you fancy indulging in something a little different.
  • The picturesque Muckross Abbey in Killarney National Park was originally a 15th-century Franciscan friary. Wonderfully preserved, this historic site actually first dates back to the 6th century (and the beginning of Christianity in Ireland).
  • Head off hiking and go visit the remains of Ballycarbery Castle, situated by the beautiful White Strand Beach on the picturesque Ring of Kerry. This impressive ivy-clad house was once home to the McCarthy Clan and, whilst currently in a state of disrepair, is impressive nonetheless. Pack a picnic and wander along the beach for a relaxing way to spend the day.
  • Drive around the scenic Ring of Kerry loop around the Iberagh Peninsula. This 179km long route boasts fabulous views and is a spectacular way to see the area.

Don't forget that this part of Ireland is extremely popular with tourists, especially during the peak summer months. If you want guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in County Kerry in July and August, you'll need to book well in advance. Alternatively plan your trip for spring or autumn when the crowds have dissipated but the scenery remains as beautiful, if not more so!

For sea views

  • Castlewood House overlooks Dingle Bay and offers comfortable beds in rooms with uninterrupted sea views, and award-winning gourmet breakfasts. This is a wonderful place to come for a quiet escape in amongst those unpaintable views.
  • Gorman's Clifftop House is a restaurant with rooms offering spacious accommodation with wonderful views of the Atlantic and Mount Brandon. Boasting an excellent restaurant which serves up regional dishes, this is a top spot for those looking to get away from it all.
  • Emlagh House, set in a charming Georgian building, provides stylish rooms featuring plush fabrics, Victorian antiques and artwork adorning the walls. Make the most out of your location to go dolphin and seal watching or head off sea fishing.
  • Aghadoe Heights is a contemporary 5* property boasting a spectacular location overlooking the Atlantic. Their rooms are simple yet chic in design, with plenty of natural light and impressive views. Come back after a day out and unwind in their extensive spa.

Country house hotels

  • Cahernane House Hotel is another peaceful escape. A grand country house hotel in the Killarney National Park, near the MacGillicuddy Reeks, this is definitely one of the best places to stay in County Kerry if you're here for a special occasion.
  • Foodies will love Carrig Country House, a lakeside Victorian residence turned country house hotel with spectacular views over Lake Carah and the mountains, and an excellent restaurant specialising in locally caught trout and salmon.
  • Also on the shores of Lake Caragh, Ard Na Sidhe Country House is a beautiful country house surrounded by 32 acres of garden, in a perfect location for exploring the Ring of Kerry.
  • Sheen Falls Lodge is a spectacular spot, situated amid stunning countryside and overlooking Sheen Falls. This luxury 5* property boasts elegant and traditional interiors as well as serving up gourmet Irish cuisine, whilst there's a range of activities to keep you busy. A first-rate country escape!

For fishing

  • QCS Townhouse is a stylish restaurant with rooms located on the Ring of Kerry. Offering spacious and chic accommodation, their restaurant specialises in local fish - whilst you can make the most out of your location to head off fishing yourself.
  • Sheen Falls Lodge is also known for its fish, but is even better known for its fishing. It's also got a spa and children's activities.
  • The 4* Brook Lane Hotel offers contemporary rooms featuring modern art, dark furnishings and chandeliers. Head off boat fishing, shore angling or charter a boat on Kenmare Bay before coming back to unwind in their charming lounge.

Quiet Retreats

  • Sallyport House boasts just five rooms and enjoys a wonderful location on the edge of the River Kenmare. This old country house boasts traditional interiors and charming bedrooms. Spend your days out hiking or fishing before returning to curl up with a good book in the cosy library!
  • The four bedroom An Riasc is set in a charming 200 year old farmhouse in the Dingle Peninsula. Individually decorated rooms feature plenty of pine furnishings, whilst huge breakfasts are served up each morning and four course dinners are available upon request. A great spot for hikers and fishers.

For A holiday cottage or Apartment

  • If you think a self-catering option would best suit your needs then check out the wide variety available online with our partner, booking.com.

Travel Information

  • It's best to visit Kerry during the summertime, with the average daily temperature reaching 15°C in July and August. This is by far the best time of year to make the most out of the county's beautiful countryside!
  • Visitors can fly into Kerry Airport, which is served by direct flights from London with Ryanair. Aer Lingus is their main operator, with regular flights to Dublin and beyond.
  • From the airport you can take the bus to Kerry's major cities. A single to Tralee costs €5.80, to Killarney it costs €5.30 and if you're going to Limerick it's €21.
  • For car hire prices, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

Weather

Monthly Weather in County Kerry

Best Hotels in County Kerry

  • Quinlan and Cooke Boutique Townhouse Cahersiveen, Co Kerry, County Kerry 4 rooms from £69

    Restaurant  -  Specialising in fresh fish caught by the restaurant's own boat
    Value chic
    Foodies
    Sights nearby  -  Situated in Cahersiveen on the Ring of Kerry
    Restaurant

    Super stylish restaurant with rooms on the Ring of Kerry. Four spacious bedrooms with king sized beds, wooden floors, roll top baths & Bose docking stations. Restaurant specialises in fresh fish caught from their own boat. Chic spot that won't break the bank on Ireland's West Coast. See More

    Check Availability
  • An Riasc Dingle, County Kerry 4 rooms from £69

    Great walks  -  Is on the renowned "Dingle Way" walk
    Outstanding location  -  Located in an idyllic setting where the mountains meet the sea
    Views  -  Great views of the Three Sisters peaks
    Back to Nature
    GardenViews

    A charming stonebuilt 200 year old farmhouse turned B&B in the Dingle Peninsula. Four individually decorated bedrooms with plenty of pine & patchwork. Huge breakfasts with home-made breads and preserves. Four course dinners on request. A great spot for walking enthusiasts & nature lovers. See More

    Check Availability
  • Victoria House Hotel Killarney 33 rooms from £73

    Foodies  -  With an acclaimed restaurant onsite serving the best in locally sourced ingredients, foodies are well looked-after at this hotel
    Families  -  Family suites at this hotel are perfect for parents travelling with children, and there is a kids' menu in the restaurant, too
    Local exploring  -  With Killarney town centre and a national park close by, there is lots to explore local to this hotel
    Great walks  -  Go walking in the Killarney National Park, a beautiful area of natural beauty and the first national park in Ireland
    RestaurantParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    This smart, family-run hotel is tucked away in Killarney, Ireland. The individually dressed guestrooms are comfortable and stylish with contemporary interior design; opt for a luxury suite for an indulgent hot tub bath. Dine at the hotel's award-winning restaurant after a day sightseeing in Kerry. See More

    Check Availability
  • Castlewood House Dingle 14 rooms from £78

    B&B  -  Superb award winning, gourmet breakfasts, with a wonderful array of homemade soda bread, scones, jam and fresh local produce
    Sea Views  -  Uninterrupted views of Dingle Bay and gentle hills behind the hotel
    Views  -  Stunning views over Dingle Bay
    Rural
    GardenViews
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Overlooking magical Dingle Bay, Castlewood House is a very comfortable bed and breakfast. The award winning gourmet breakfast is what Castlewood is all about, with a dazzling array of delectable dishes, homemade bread, jams, pancakes, porridge with Cooley Whisky, Dingle kippers and the full Irish. See More

    Check Availability
  • Sallyport House Kenmare 5 rooms from £87

    Views  -  Stunning views over the orchards to the Caha mountains.
    Sights nearby  -  The nearest town, Kenmare, has lots going for it.
    Traditional
    GardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays, Fodors

    A beautiful old country house in a stunning location on the edge of the River Kenmare and surrounded by mountains. Traditional interiors have cosy fireplaces, a library, lots of books, art on the walls, and charming bedrooms. The perfect spot for a weekend in the fresh air. See More

    Check Availability
  • Gorman's Clifftop House Ballydavid, County Kerry 8 rooms from £95

    Views  -  Enjoy stunning sunsets over the Atlantic and views over Mount Brandon
    Great walks  -  Direct access on to the famous 180km "Dingle Way"
    Restaurant  -  Overlooking Smerwick Harbour
    Back to Nature
    RestaurantViews
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays, Good Hotel Guide

    Purpose built restaurant with rooms with stunning vista over both the Atlantic and Mount Brandon. Spacious, stylish, contemporary bedrooms make the most of the views. Highly recommended restaurant serving regional specialities from locally sourced ingredients. Ideal for walkers and outdoorsy types. See More

    Check Availability
  • Emlagh House Dingle Town 10 rooms from £113

    Local exploring  -  Plenty of outdoors fun nearby, such as fishing, cycling, walking trips, and Dingle's superb seafood restaurants
    Birdwatching  -  A private guide can be arranged for this also to take guests along to various beauty spots
    Fishing  -  Sea fishing can be arranged by hotel
    Great walks  -  Good for walkers.
    Air conditioningGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Fodors

    Charming B&B in Georgian house. Rooms are themed on wildflowers and feature artworks, plush fabrics and Victorian antiques. Elegant lounge with open fireplace, neat gardens. Very friendly service. Ideal for a weekend break. See More

    Check Availability
  • Randles Hotel Killarney 75 rooms from £106

    Country Escape  -  With fine-dining, an indulgent spa and easy access to the national park this is a luxury country break
    Great walks  -  Explore the numerous hiking trails through the mountains of the national park
    Spa  -  Zen Day Spa offers a wide range of holistic treatments and massages.
    Kayaking  -  Admire the coastline on a kayak from the sea
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolPet friendlyParking

    A luxurious hotel set in the town of Killarney which borders Killarney National park. Traditionally dressed rooms feature a choice selection of antiques set with chintz fabrics. A spoiling spa will soothe any aching muscles from an activity-filled day and the fine-dining restaurant is a real treat. See More

    Check Availability
  • Barrow House Tralee, County Kerry 8 rooms from £123

    Active Holiday  -  Find a host of outdoor pursuits nearby the property.
    Fishing  -  Fishing excursions start straight from the property's deck.
    On the beach  -  Barrow House enjoys an enviable beachfront location.
    Great walks  -  Take long walks along the pristine beaches.
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    A luxury B&B boasting an enviable location overlooking The Wild Atlantic Way. Elegant rooms are decorated with soft hues, antique furniture and traditionally patterned fabrics. The restaurant is superb. This is the perfect spot for an active break or to simply completely unwind. See More

    Check Availability
  • Carrig Country House Killorglin, Co Kerry, County Kerry 17 rooms from £130

    Garden  -  Four acre gardens running down to the lake with many rare and unusual species. The head gardener will give you a personal tour.
    Views  -  Glorious views over Lake Caragh and the Kerry mountains
    Outstanding location  -  Stunning situation on the shore of Lake Caragh
    Restaurant  -  Lakeside restaurant serving highly regarded Irish cuisine featuring salmon & trout from the Lake and Kerry lamb
    RestaurantGardenViews
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Lakeside Victorian residence turned country house hotel. Traditional period style interiors with rich fabrics, four poster beds and views to die for across Lake Caragh and the Kerry mountains. Highly recommended restaurant serving trout & salmon from the lake & Kerry lamb. See More

    Check Availability
  • Brook Lane Hotel Kenmare 20 rooms from £139

    Local exploring  -  Abundance of activities on the doorstep, with sea fishing, golf, walks and wildlife
    Families  -  Lovely activites for children with Lorge Chocolate Factory and Adopt a Sheep farm
    Diving  -  Kenmare Bay Diving Club is located in Lauragh on the spectacular Beara peninsula
    Fishing  -  Boat fishing, shore angling or charter a boat on Kenmare Bay
    RestaurantDisabled accessParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays, Good Hotel Guide

    Splendid hotel in the Ring of Kerry. Sumptuous rooms have modern art, dark velvet furnishings and chandeliers. Charming fireplace lounges and excellent restaurant offering locally sourced and organic dishes; unmissable breakfasts. Very friendly staff. See More

    Check Availability
  • Sheen Falls Lodge Kenmare (County Kerry) 66 rooms from £139

    Child friendly  -  The hotel has children's menus, free bikes, board games and a wide selection of DVDs
    Fishing  -  The hotel has a resident ghillie who can plan residents' fishing expeditions
    5* Luxury  -  Very high service standards.
    Spa  -  Easana Wellness & Spa includes sauna, steam room, hot tub, 5 treatment rooms, hair & beauty salon, and a range of therapies.
    TennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews
    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller, Relais & Chateaux

    Situated amid stunning Kerry countryside with views over the Sheen Falls from almost every room. Family friendly five star luxury country retreat with activities for everyone. Borrow a bike, go fishing with the ghillie or simply relax in the spa then indulge in gourmet Irish cuisine. See More

    Check Availability
  • Parknasilla Resort County Kerry 83 rooms from £140

    Active Holiday  -  With its own golf course and plenty of outdoor pursuits on offer this the perfect spot for those who like active holidays
    Spa breaks  -  The indulgent spa features a fabulous indoor pool, a selection of outdoor hot tubs, and an array of treatments
    Local exploring  -  Perfectly located for exploring both the Ring of Kerry and Wild Atlantic Way
    Restaurant  -  Various dining options including fine dining at the Pygmalion Restaurant which features modern Irish cuisine
    TennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets

    A luxury hotel and spa boasting a spectacular setting with a backdrop of the Kerry Mountains and sea views. Spacious rooms are contemporary and bright with large planes of glass yet there's a traditional feel with chandeliers and antiques. The spa is utterly indulgent; a chic country escape. See More

    Check Availability
  • Killarney Royal Hotel Killarney (County Kerry) 32 rooms from £155

    Local exploring  -  Set in the charming town of Killarney, this hotel is a great base for local exploring in and around County Kerry
    Active Holiday  -  There are great outdoors activities on this stretch of Ireland's west coast, from hiking to climbing and golf
    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the classic interiors at this boutique bolt-hole; book a luxury suite for added indulgence
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the beautiful Muckross House and Gardens, a Victorian manor house which now houses a museum
    Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    This stately boutique hotel boasts a privileged location in the centre of the vibrant town of Killarney in Ireland. Opulent guestrooms are dressed in a regal palette and are peppered with antiques; book a suite for a luxurious living room. Dine in the elegant Candle Room Restaurant; a stylish hotel. See More

    Check Availability
  • Ard Na Sidhe Country House Caragh Lake, County Kerry 18 rooms from £156

    Garden  -  Set amid 32 acres including many rare and unusual trees and shrubs
    Outstanding location  -  Beautiful situation on the shores of Caragh Lake
    Restaurant  -  Regional cuisine using local ingredients like fresh fish from the Atlantic and Kerry lamb
    Views  -  Stunning views over lake and Co Kerry countryside
    RestaurantGardenViews
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Country house hotel in a stunning location on the shores of Lake Caragh. 18 bedrooms are split between the original house and the garden house, some with private terrace. Spectacular 32 acres of gardens with rare species. Ideal for a relaxing rural escape in stunning Co Kerry. See More

    Check Availability
  • Cahernane House Hotel Killarney 40 rooms from £156

    Foodies  -  Award winning restaurant.
    Luxury
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Romantic Break
    TennisRestaurantGardenViews
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Exceedingly grand and luxurious country house hotel on the edge of a national park with a most special atmosphere and ambience for business, weddings, and fine dining. See More

    Check Availability
  • Aghadoe Heights Killarney 74 rooms from £201

    Spa breaks  -  A contemporary award-winning spa featuring a couples room, relaxation room and extensive thermal suite.
    Country Escape  -  A 5 star country escape with an impressive placing overlooking the Atlantic coast.
    Private Hot Tub  -  Book the Penthouse Suite for a private terrace with outdoor hot tub and wonderful views!
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the impressive 15th Century Ross Castle.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A contemporary five star luxury hotel with a stunning position overlooking the Lough Leane. Gorgeous rooms, with plenty of glass, are simple in design with focus drawn to the impressive views. A spoiling modern spa is worthy of a visit in itself. Excellent cuisine and a trendy bar. A rural treat. See More

    Check Availability
  • Killarney Park Hotel Killarney 67 rooms from £191

    Local exploring  -  Ideally located to enjoy the quintessentially Irish town of Killarney as well as the surrounding countryside.
    Total relaxation  -  Complete with fabulous spa, exemplary restaurant and five star service, wish for nothing at this property.
    Great walks  -  Explore the Killarney National Park just minutes from the property.
    Kayaking  -  Paddle across one of the scenic Lakes of Killarney.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A luxurious 5 star property in the quaint town of Killarney. Traditionally styled rooms are light and airy with large sash windows, antique furniture and contemporary bathrooms. A spoiling spa and indoor pool are the perfect place to unwind after a day in the great outdoors. Fabulous. See More

    Check Availability
  • Park Hotel, Kenmare Kenmare (Co. Kerry,) 46 rooms from £252

    Spa breaks  -  The SÁMAS spa is one of Ireland's finest. Embark on a 3hr 'journey' incorporating thermal and holistic treatments.
    Country Escape  -  It's all about fires, coastal walks, indulgent food and excellent aged-whiskey.
    Sailing  -  Take a seal-spotting boat trip around Kenmare.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    TennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux

    5-star luxury overlooking the Kenmare Bay. Boasting old-school service and traditional style. Individually styled rooms with chintz fabrics and sash windows. Open fires and excellent whiskies ideal post-outdoor activities. An excellent spa. Gourmet cuisine using local produce. Truly spoiling. See More

    Check Availability