The town, founded in 1670 by Sir William Petty, has preserved many original features. Development has been sympathetic to the tradition of an Irish town. It now bustles with over 30 restaurants, bars, craft shops, hotels, guest houses, and a host of activities for your enjoyment. Kenmare's hotels and restaurants are among some of the world's finest establishments.

Touring the surrounding area is a pleasure not to be missed. The famed Ring of Kerry, with 110 miles of breathtaking views, is complimented by the equally majestic Ring of Beara. Short enchanting drives to places like Blackwater, Rossdohan Pier, Gleninchaquin, Clonee Lakes, or beaches at Allihies or Castlecove will give lifelong memories.

For the slightly more energetic, you have a choice of numerous activities. The surrounding countryside offers a host of marked walking trails. Our annual Walking Festivals which take place at Easter and May/June, offer walkers of all standards guided walks of various lengths. Watersports are in abundance with pleasure trips of Kenmare Bay to see the seals and other stunning wildlife. Canoeing, windsurfing, sailing and water-skiing are all available within short walking distance of town. You can also charter a motor yacht for the day to tour the coastline. Call into Killmakilloge for a pint of Guinness with lunch, and, of course, on a hot summer's day, a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the bay is glorious. Back on the mainland, there are a number of horse riding stables waiting to bring you up the mountains, along the coast or through the many woods. All classes of horses are available for the novice or experienced rider. Both the Kenmare Golf Club and the Ring of Kerry Golf and Country Club offer a challenging game over their 18 holes, and for those not so fond of the long tree lined fairways, we have a very enjoyable pitch and putt.

For quiet, peaceful days with the rod, there are many lakes and rivers to tackle available locally.