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Things to do in Kerry


Hawthorn River Lodge is ideally located
on the Ring of Kerry, between Killarney and Killorglin,
and is your gateway to touring Kerry

County Kerry is heaven for golfers. Six of Golf World's Top 100 British and Irish Courses are in Kerry; and Hawthorn River Lodge is ideally situated to enjoy them all. Nearby Beaufort Golf Club (telephone - 064 44440), a recently developed 18 hole parkland course with the back nine dominated by the ruins of the 15th century Castle Core and wonderful views of McGillicuddy's Reeks. 5 minutes away is Killarney Golf Club (telephone - 064 31034) offering two superb 18-Hole courses - Mahony's Point and Killeen. Slightly further afield is the admirable and comparatively undiscovered Dooks (telephone - 066 9768205), an 18-Hole links course. Tralee (telephone - 066 71363790), the first course in Europe to be designed by Arnold Palmer, Waterville (telephone - 066 94741020 , where Tiger Woods and Mark O'Meara practised for the 1999 British Open, and the two legendary links courses at Ballybunion (telephone - 068 27146) are all within 90 minutes drive.
GOLF
Whether a mountain biker, serious racer or a fun cyclist - Kerry is the cycling Mecca of Ireland. The Hawthorn River Lodge is set on the famous Ring of Kerry which is one of the most picturesque routes in Ireland and has many beautiful beaches, rivers and lakes to enjoy. It is famous for its coastal and mountainous scenery. Starting in the town of Killarney  made famous by the magnificent
CYCLING
The traditional riding experience in Kerry is the trek through the Gap of Dunloe. This can be undertaken either as part of an all day trip coming back to Killarney by boat or alternatively as a one or two hour ride. The Killarney Riding Stables (064 31686) and the Muckross Stables (064 32238) both offer rides through the National Park. Burke's Horse Trekking in Glenbeigh (066 976 8872) offers spectacular seaside riding along Rossbeigh Strand. All the Stables cater for all types of riders, from children to adults, the beginner, to the experienced and provide suitable safety equipment. Pony trekking in Kerry can take you to places otherwise accessible only on foot and is highly recommended.
HORSE RIDING
There are a wide selection of walks of various degrees of difficulty available including The Gap of Dunloe, a spectacular glacial breach valley, Ross Island encompassing the promontory on which Ross Castle is built or Torc, a walk that takes you up the side of the spectacular Torc Waterfall and offers splendid views of the Lakes from the top. For the more advanced walkers there is Carrauntoohil, the highest mountain in Ireland at 3414 feet.
WALKING
Deep glaciated lakes, gently meandering rivers, steep exciting white water and shimmering, secluded coastlines; all can be found in Ireland's kayaking kingdom. Explore, Discover and Paddle with experienced, qualified kayak instructors such as Nathan Kingerlee (086 860 45 63) or Cappanalea Outdoor Pursuit Centre near Caragh Lake (066 9769244).
CANOEING
Fishing in Kerry is a very special experience; the natural beauty, mild climate and prolific fish stocks combine to produce the ultimate angling experience. Situated in some of the most scenic parts of Kerry are the four rainbow trout fisheries stocked and managed by the Board. These attractive lakes offer excellent sport to casual and experienced anglers and are readily accessible from the road. Boats are available for hire.
FISHING

BEACHES

SEA ANGLING
Caragh lake is a renowned fishing lake, just off the Ring of Kerry on the lveragh Peninsula and is located 8 km from Killorglin (off the N70) on the 3rd class road to Caragh Lake, overlooking the lake.
CARAGH LAKE


Hawthorn River Lodge is the ideal location for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Golfing, Angling (Fee applicable), Deep-Fishing, Diving and Swimming, Cycling, Canoeing, Horse Riding, Orienteering and Sight Seeing are all on your doorstep.

There are 18 Golf Courses within 90 minutes drive, Riding Stables within 5 minutes and an Atlantic sandy Blue Flag beach nearby.

The Cappanalea Outdoor Pursuit Centre is only a few miles away and provides supervised outdoor sports and adventure facilities.

Dining, Entertainment and Local Attractions

Killarney, Killorglin and the surrounding area offer a fine selection of restaurants giving the most rewarding dining experiences.

Restaurants in Killarney and Killorglin we recommend include:

  • Treyvaud's Restaurant
  • Bricin
  • West End House
  • Gaby's Seafood Restaurant
  • Lord Kenmares Restaurant
  • Mentons @ The Plaza
  • The Beaufort Bar & Restaurant
  • Nick's Seafood Restaurant & Piano Bar
  • Sol y Sombra Wine & Tapas Bar
  • Jack's Coastguard Station Bar & Seafood Restaurant

There are many tourist attractions and local day trips that can be taken around Killarney for all the family to enjoy.

Killarney National Park: This is a large park that is very historical to Ireland because it was the very first national park in this country.

Jaunting Car Trips around the National Park, Lakes of Killarney and Muckross House and Boat Trips on the Lakes of Killarney are very popular.

Ross Island: Path through woodland around the island from which visitors can see the mines and some stunning views of the lakes, mountains, and smaller islands. 

Ross Castle: A 15th century castle built by the O'Donoghue Ross Chieftains is situated within Killarney National Park and on the edge of Lough Leane.

Innisfallen: This is an island over 1,000 years old and was originally home to a number of churches and a monastery. It can be accessed by boat from Ross Castle.

Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farm: These are Killarney's most popular attractions. You can freely wander the gardens but payment is required to tour the house and traditional farms.  

Muckross Abbey: One of the best examples of a medieval Irish monastery.

The Torc Waterfall: For anyone who has never before seen a waterfall, this is one not to miss and is especially spectacular after the area has been hit by rain because it makes the falls even more intense.

Gap of Dunloe: Probably the best day tour in Killarney and one that will allow you to see it from all angles. There are several tour operators but in general visitors will be taken by bus from Killarney town to Kate Kearney's Cottage.

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