Hello: We were looking for B&Bs in southwestern Ireland that is relatively central to Beara Peninsula, Ring of Kerry, Killarney Natl Park and Dingle. Kenmare seems to fit but I am having a difficult time since it is a small town finding good accommodations because we are going near Christmas time. Rick Steves says he doesnt care for Killarney and it seems like a lot of driving to and from Cork to get to these places. We would love to hear your opinions. Thanks so much!
Posted by
Pearland, Texas, USA
441 posts
I liked Killarney very much. It has the Muckross House, a national forest, a waterfall and an Abbey. We've stayed twice with the Countess Road B&B. The scenery in southwest Ireland is wonderful and so are the people.
Posted by
Pearland, Texas, USA
441 posts
I forgot about Ross Castle. I learned where the word "cubbyhole" came from.
Posted by
Gig Harbor, Washington, USA
1851 posts
We liked Tahila Cove, near Sneem, about 10 miles from Kenmare, convenient for both Beara and the ROK.
Posted by
Arlington, Virginia
29 posts
Jenny - Try finding a B&B in Kinsale or Baltimore two tiny towns in County Cork with any number listed in the free B&B Guide from ITB. Allihies, also in Co. Cork, has at least two B&Bs, both right on the very scenic coast. I agree with Rick's assessment of Killarney Town. It's quite pretty, though heavily geared toward tourists and bus groups. The music you'll hear in the pubs there - mostly an Americanized concept of Irish music - centers around group singalongs, not at all what true Irish "trad" music is. You'll find "trad" in many pubs all over the West. You may have to look for it, as it's not offered nightly, save in some towns during the summer.
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
Did you contact the Watersedge B&B in Kenmare? If not, give it a try. It's a great place to stay and the prices are reasonable.
Posted by
Kansas City, MO
54 posts
Jennie, If you are still looking, I recommend Birchwood in Kilgarvan, just 6 miles outside of Kenmare: http://www.birchwood-kilgarvan.com/. Mrs. Mary MacDonnell is the proprietress. I stayed there in 2004, and she still sends me a Christmas card! It's very clean and quiet with a typical hearty breakfast. Perfect location for visiting Kenmare, touring the Beara Peninsula or the Ring of Kerry. I always recommend Birchwood when I see requests like yours. Enjoy!
Posted by
Memphis, TN, USA
6 posts
Riverville House in Kenmare is perfect. It is quiet and within a short walking distance to town. Also, be sure to eat at Packies. The prawns are awesome.