Tralee: The Capital of Kerry
Our park is just a 10-minute walk from Tralee town centre, where there’s so much to see and do.
An action-packed evening at Kingdom Greyhound Stadium is perfect for families. With great food, exciting races, and a lively atmosphere, it’s a unique experience that both kids and adults enjoy. With minimum bets as low as €2, everyone can join in the fun!
While families enjoy the Aqua Dome during the day, the facility offers a peaceful atmosphere in the evenings for a relaxing swim. The highlight for adults is the Vitality Suite, with tropical and Scandinavian saunas, a sea salt steam room, a plunge pool, and heated loungers. It’s the ideal place to unwind.
This 200-year-old working windmill, situated on Tralee Bay, is a historic landmark and was once a major port of emigration to North America during the Great Famine. The onsite Famine Museum is particularly popular with visitors from overseas.
Tralee is a dream for golfers, featuring the renowned Arnold Palmer-designed course at Barrow, considered one of the world’s top links courses. For a more casual experience, Killeen Wood offers a family-friendly pitch-and-putt course, perfect for players of all ages and abilities.
With over 4,000 artifacts, Kerry County Museum captures the archaeological, historical, and cultural heritage of Kerry. Highlights include the Kennelly Archive Photography collection and an immersive medieval Tralee experience. The museum is also a great family-friendly option for rainy days. You’ll also find the tourist office here, open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tralee is a shopper’s paradise with big brands like, TK Maxx, Next, Shaws, and more. Our large Pennys store is a must-visit, offering great value and style. Our guests often return laden with shopping bags!
Home to Ireland’s National Folk Theatre, Siamsa Tíre brings together locals and visitors from all over the world to celebrate Irish culture through music, song, and dance.
Tralee is a dream for golfers, featuring the renowned Arnold Palmer-designed course at Barrow, considered one of the world’s top links courses. For a more casual experience, Killeen Wood offers a family-friendly pitch-and-putt course, perfect for players of all ages and abilities.
Dingle: A Day Out on the Dingle Peninsula
Exploring the Dingle Peninsula is a must-do when visiting Kerry. This breathtaking route takes you through some of Ireland’s most scenic landscapes, charming villages, and historic sites.
Start by passing through Blennerville and Camp. You can either stay on the main road or take the scenic Conor Pass – Ireland’s highest mountain road – for an unforgettable experience (Conor pass is not suitable for Motorhomes). On clear days, the views are magnificent, stretching as far as the Aran Islands off Galway. This narrow, winding road isn’t recommended for motorhomes, as it has tight turns and overhanging rocks. From the car park at the summit, the glaciated landscape, with mountains and corrie lakes, creates a stunning backdrop.
As you descend into the vibrant town of Dingle, you’ll find colorful streets lined with fantastic bars, restaurants, and craft shops. Dingle is known for its local artisans, making it a great place to pick up high-quality, unique souvenirs.
A boat trip around Dingle Bay was once the go-to for spotting Fungi the Dolphin. Although Fungi has left, boat tours are still a wonderful way to explore the bay and its beauty. Several tours depart from the pier, offering scenic views of the coastline and a fresh perspective on Dingle.
Leaving Dingle, the drive takes you over Milltown Bridge and past Burnham woodlands to the seaside village of Ventry. Its long, curved blue-flag beach offers safe swimming and water sports, making it a great spot to stop and enjoy the shore.
Continuing west from Ventry, the road winds past ancient Dunbeg Fort, with sheer cliffs on one side and the vast Atlantic on the other. At Slea Head, marked by a stone crucifixion scene, you’ll have dramatic views toward South Kerry and the Blasket Islands.
Following the coastline, you’ll pass Coumenoole Strand, a filming location for Ryan’s Daughter, and reach Dún Chaoin. Here, you can board a passenger ferry to the Great Blasket Island (An Blascaod Mór) from Dún Chaoin pier.
Heading north and east, you’ll reach the village of Ballyferriter, which has a few cozy pubs, a shop, and the Corca Dhuibhne Regional Museum.
As you continue eastward, the road passes close to fascinating ancient sites, including the early Christian settlement at Reasc and the iconic Gallarus Oratory.
Next, you’ll arrive at the fishing village of Baile na nGall/Ballydavid. The route then follows a dramatic cliff-top drive, with breathtaking seascapes of crashing waves, rocky outcrops, and seabirds.
Heading south, the drive continues along the base of Mount Brandon, Ireland’s second-highest mountain. For those interested in hiking, a pilgrimage trail to the summit begins nearby. You’ll then rejoin the main road back to Dingle, crossing a hill crest at Ballinlochaigh before returning to town.
Killarney: A Perfect Day Trip from Tralee
Killarney is a wonderful day out and offers a rich array of activities and sights. Here’s a selection of some of the top things to do and see:
Explore the magnificent Killarney National Park, where you can walk, cycle, or take a traditional Jaunting Car (Pony and Trap) through this vast, scenic landscape. Keep an eye out for the indigenous Wild Red Deer, Ireland’s last remaining herd, that roam freely here.
Just outside Killarney town, a Pony and Trap ride through the scenic mountain pass of the Gap of Dunloe is a must. This journey through stunning landscapes includes a stop at the picturesque Wishing Bridge, where folklore says that wishes come true. The journey continues through the remote Black Valley and concludes at Lord Brandon’s Cottage, a charming Victorian hunting lodge now serving as a cafe.
From Lord Brandon’s, enjoy a 250-year-old tourist tradition—a boat trip from the Cottage to Ross Castle on the Lakes of Killarney. This historic lake journey offers one of the most memorable experiences in Killarney, and local tour operators can arrange the entire trip.
Visit the exquisite 19th-century Victorian mansion, Muckross House and Gardens, nestled in the heart of Killarney National Park. Nearby, Muckross Traditional Farms offers a glimpse into rural Irish life from the 1930s and 1940s, with three working farms. A short walk from Muckross House brings you to the tranquil ruins of Muckross Abbey, a well-preserved 15th-century friary with the only Franciscan Tower in Ireland. In its cloisters stands a magnificent ancient yew tree, thought to be over 500 years old.
This 15th-century tower house overlooks picturesque Lough Leane, and many boat trips depart from here, including a short trip to Innisfallen Island. A popular walking loop around Ross Island takes you past some of the world’s oldest copper mines, dating back nearly 4,500 years. Scenic viewpoints like Governor’s Rock and Library Point offer stunning views of the Killarney Lakes and surrounding mountains. From Ross Castle, you can also walk to Killarney town via the lovely Knockreer area of the National Park.
Just 5 miles outside Killarney, Torc Waterfall is at its best after heavy rainfall. A short walk from the car park brings you to the waterfall, where you can take in its natural beauty. For a more challenging route, park at the Dinis Cottage Car Park off the N71 Ring of Kerry Road and cross the road to the famous Cardiac Steps. This steep, wooded trail rewards you with incredible views over the lakes and surrounding mountains.
Walking Routes near Tralee
Killarney is a wonderful day out and offers a rich array of activities and sights. Here’s a selection of some of the top things to do and see:
Tralee has many walks in close proximity. From a leisurely walk along the Blenneville-Tralee canal, to wooded walks at Ballyseedy and Glenageenty Woods to the more advanced treks of the North Kerry and Dingle Ways. Something here for everyone.
Picturesque walk along the old tow path of Tralee Ship Canal to Blennerville Village with the Slieve Mish mountains as the backdrop. Crossing the Canal Swing Bridge and Blennerville Road Bridge with fine views of Tralee Bay and the restored Windmill. Returning along Kearney’s Road with Tralee Bay Nature reserve on your left. A gradual rise to Healy’s Cross and return via the leafy suburb of Ballyyard Hill to Aqua Dome Car Park.
This is a leisurely walk along the northern bank of the River Lee from which the town takes its name. It is a haven for wildlife including otter, heron and, beneath the water, salmon and trout. It extends on an elevated boardwalk as far as the ruins of the Geraldine Towerhouse at Castlemorris and as far as the Aqua Dome in the other direction. Our bridge is about half way along it. A nice extension of this walk is to cross the road at the Aqua Dome and walk around the lake at the wetlands centre.
: The woods dates back at least to the 16th centruy when it was first mapped for Sir Edward Denny. Further planting took place by Col. J Blennerhassett in the early 18th century who had his castle nearby.
Today, Ballyseedy is a sustainable woodland recreational amenity for the people of Kerry and visitors alike. It is a unique and tranquil retreat which extends to nearly 80 acres. It has at least 22 varieties of native trees and they are marked with their Gaelic and English names in the woods.
As you wander along the Old Coach Road which served the Blennerhassett estate and plantation, look out for the majestic Ash, Oak and Beech trees – they have been frowing here for centuries. There are a number of ruins and folllies within the wood, dating back to the 17th century, with the River Lee (from which Tralee takes its name) forming the woodlands northern boundary
Glanageenty is an area of mistery, myth and folklore, a wild and rugged landscape that was once the sanctuary to some famous heroes and bandits alike. It starts behind O’Riardas Bar near Castleisland and is a good hike with spectacular views of the county.
The North Kerry Way is a 48 kilometre linear walking route through the northern part of County Kerry, starting in the county town of Tralee and ending in the town of Ballyheigue.
While not as well known as the Iveragh or Dingle Peninsulas, North Kerry has much to offer, including spectacular seascapes, the finest beaches in Ireland and a multitude of ancient sites, churches and field monuments.
The route heads out of Tralee with the Dingle Way to Blennerville with its fine traditional windmill: there the routes part and the North Kerry Way heads north west along a sea wall at the back of Tralee Bay.
From the village of Spa it goes cross country onto the white sands of Banna Strand to reach the village of Ballyheigue and the beginning of a scenic mountainous area on Kerry Head, which it loops around before finishing at Ballyheigue.
The terrain consists of mainly quiet country roads, firm beach sand (except at high tide), tracks, bog roads and field paths. The route is flat except for the last 18 kilometres where there are some short ascents, with an aggregate climb of 370 metres.
There are some short loop walks which link with the main route of the North Kerry Way.
The Dingle peninsula, the northernmost of County Kerry’s peninsulas, stretches nearly 50 kilometres into the Atlantic, and is 21 kilometres wide at its broadest. It is a dramatic and varied landscape of coastal plains, sandy beaches, mountains and lakes.
The Dingle Way is a circular route beginning and ending in the town of Tralee that takes in all of these wonderments along the route. Leaving Tralee the route climbs onto the flanks of the Slieve Mish and contours westwards before crossing the peninsula to the scenic Inch beach on Dingle Bay. The route then meanders westwards by the villages of Anascaul and Lispole to the famed town of Dingle, where many walkers will want to stay a while and enjoy the good food, good music and craic.
West of Dingle is the most dramatic part of the Way, an exciting coastal trek around the westernmost point of Ireland and a return leg over a saddle below Kerry’s holy mountain, Brandon, and on to Tralee by the shore.
Terrain consists mainly of quiet tarmac roads, mountain, field and cliff paths, and over 20km of good beach walking. The aggregate ascent over the route is 2480m, and although there are some short steep ascents, there are no significant steep climbs. The route is steeped in history and scattered with the ruins of ancient dwellings, forts, churches, and castles, and because of its circular layout, can be easily sampled in sections
There are two ways to climb mount Brandon. The easy way and the hard way! Either way it’s an excellent mountain to climb with breath-taking views of Tralee Bay and the Atlantic from the top. The photo was taken on the way back down Brandon.
Pubs and Restaurants
Tralee has an impressive array of pubs, restaurants, and cafes, each with its own charm. Here are some of our favorites to help you find the perfect place to eat, drink, and relax:
A must-visit for hearty Irish bar food with a cozy restaurant upstairs. Enjoy live music most nights during summer – a classic Tralee experience!
Around the corner from The Brogue, this dark and cozy pub is a traditional gem with live music every night. It’s a local and tourist favorite, known for its welcoming vibe. McCaffreys is next door to Sean Óg’s and do the best Cocktails in town!
Nestled in the town square, this cozy pub has a heated outdoor area, perfect for dog owners who can relax with a drink while their pets stay close by.
Known for generous portions of classic Irish dishes, The Grand Hotel’s bar is a great spot for comforting, traditional food.
This beloved traditional pub offers live music every night. Known for its friendly staff, it’s as popular with locals as it is with tourists, making it a must-visit.
A long-established Italian restaurant with a simple but authentic menu. Located conveniently across from Siamsa Tire Theatre, it’s ideal for a pre-show meal.
Another Italian favorite with a great reputation for gluten-free options. Ideal for anyone seeking Italian flavors with dietary flexibility
Our neighbors at The Rose Hotel offer a warm welcome to our guests. Dotts Bar serves delicious food just 300m from our reception – perfect for a satisfying meal if you’ve arrived late. They also have an elegant fine dining restaurant if you’re in the mood to indulge.
Beaches & Coastal Activities
When the sun shines, there’s no better way to spend the day than exploring the stunning beaches and coastal villages near Tralee. Each of these beaches offers a unique and memorable way to enjoy Kerry’s stunning coastline. Whether you’re looking to relax, swim, or have a beach adventure, there’s something for everyone!
Here are some of the top spots to visit:
Discover the charming fishing village of Fenit, home to Ireland’s second-longest pier—perfect for fishing or taking a boat ride out to the historic lighthouse. There’s also a state-of-the-art playground beside the sheltered Blue Flag beach, ideal for swimming, building sandcastles, or simply skimming stones along the water. Often called North Kerry’s best-kept secret, Fenit offers a perfect seaside day out.
Consistently ranked among Ireland’s best beaches, Banna’s golden sands stretch for miles, framed by gentle Atlantic waves. This scenic spot boasts breathtaking views of the Dingle Peninsula and Kerry Head. On a wild day, a brisk walk along the beach is perfect for watching kite surfers in action and clearing your mind with fresh sea air.
An extension of Banna Beach, Ballyheigue offers the same expansive shoreline with the added convenience of a nearby playground and village amenities, including shops and cozy pubs. It’s a fantastic family-friendly destination
Named Ireland’s Best Beach in 2018, Inch Beach is worth the 40-minute drive from our park. Visitors can drive right onto the beach, though caution is advised due to soft sand and rising tides. The beach’s gentle waves make it a fun and safe place for small children, while older kids can rent surfboards and enjoy surfing. It’s an unforgettable experience for all ages.
For a more adventurous beach day, head to Sandy Bay at Maharees. Here, you can rent paddleboards, kayaks, or try out the popular water trampolines. Don’t miss the chance to climb the large sand dune at the end of the beach – it’s exhilarating to roll, run, or tumble down, and a highlight for kids and adults alike!