Best Attractions in South West Kerry

With Ireland's 10 Highest Mountain Peaks, There Are Few Better Places than Kerry to Experience Fantastic Hill Walking and Hiking.

Kerry's Highest Peaks are part of the Macgillycuddy's Reeks Mountain Range and visible from the main Killarney to Sneem scenic road.

Of course you need to be an experience mountaineer to tackle any of these peaks alone but the good news is that it is possible to experience the thrill of reaching their summits in the care of our recommended qualified Mountain leaders.  We're happy to assist in organising trips for our guests and can arrange walking pole rentals, packed lunches and route maps.  For those contemplating such a hike or mountain walk challenge, some reading on the subject might help make you to make the decision and it is really important to wear the right gear.

You can book your stay at Alaind or contact us directly if you want help in designing your perfect activity holiday package.

The Ring of Beara Cycle 2018 event sold out in record time!  With the popularity of cycling continuing to rise in Ireland and across the world, it comes as no great surprise that organised charity events such as the Ring of Beara Cycle are very popular. 

What is a fantastic, however, is that the event was 'sold out' by lunchtime on the same day that the entry opened.  The organisers have included a waiting list on their website for the Saturday May 26th Cycle. 

The annual Ring of Kerry Cycle will take place this year on Saturday 7th July and once again places are expected to fill quickly.

Of course, cyclists are most welcome at Álaind Resort .  We'll look after you and your bikes, so you can take to any of the famous scenic road loops at your leisure. We're happy to help our guests organise bike care, packed lunches and route maps.  You can book your perfect package or contact us directly if you want help in designing your perfect cycling activity holiday package.

Along the southernmost edge of the Iveragh Peninsula, the Ring of Kerry skirts the peaceful, sheltered Kenmare Bay. This richly wooded area, brushed by the Gulf Stream and sheltered by high mountains to the north, has an almost languorous feel.

From the palms and grassy beach paths of Derrynane National Park at the mouth of the Bay, to the thick canopies of trees along the route, from the hedgerows of monbretia and rhododendrons to the green forested islands just off shore –it’s no wonder some call this the Garden of Ireland.

This is great walking and hiking country.  Walking or hiking in Sneem offers lakes, rivers and open sea, and mountains all around – heather and gorse covered slopes to the north, and dreamy views across the Bay to the blue peaks of the Beara Peninsula. And it’s crowded with early history – stone circles, stone forts, standing stones, bullaun stones and ringforts. Visitors take to the water too – on sea safaris out into the Atlantic, or staying in the shelter of the Bay to kayak, fish, swim and sail.

Along the Ring, half way up the Bay, tiny Sneem – whose Gaelic name means the Knot – is a village of colourful houses and two little squares, busy with travellers on the Ring of Kerry.  At a turbulent time in his life, Charles de Gaulles escaped to Sneem, where, he said, “I was at peace with myself”.

At the head of the Bay, where the two mighty peninsulas of Iveragh and Beara meet the edge of Killarney National Park, is Kenmare - an elegant 17th century market town – called “Neidin” or “the nest” in Gaelic. This welcoming, lively town is always buzzing and yet, it's heaven to know that in all the towns and villages along this southerly stretch of the Ring – you're only ever moments away from nature and its relaxing peace and tranquillity.

See more constellations and falling stars with the naked eye than you ever though possible in South West Kerry recently awarded International 'Gold-tier' Dark Sky Reserve Status.

A 700sq km area of Southwest Kerry, sandwiched between mountains and the sea, is blessed with minimal nocturnal light pollution offering wonderful views of the constellations, zodiacal light, falling stars, faint meteors and the Milky Way.  With many excellent 360 degree viewing locations close to Alaind Resort, Dark Sky Stargazing is an opportunity not to be missed for both the expect astronomer or astral photographers and interested first timers.

However, perhaps even better news is that you don't have to travel to find a viewing spot as the Stargazing at Alaind on a clear night is awesome too.

A beautiful 30 min drive from Alaind Sneem in the direction of Catherdaniel are a number of the finest sandy beaches you will find anywhere.  Water quality is excellent and there is something for everyone. The small family favourite White Strand is the first you will me meet and being quite a sheltered and flat cove has always had a reputation for safeness.

Further along the road it's hard to miss Carroll's Cove, with it's silver white sands and turquoise water.  With larger swells, this beach has a loyal following many of whom stay in  the onsite mobile home park.  Right on the beach front is a Carroll's bar and restaurant, where the fun continues into the night.

Next is Derrynane Beach, which is reached by taking a left turn at the crossroad in Caherdaniel and follow along a small country road for 2km.  It is a lovely sheltered Blue Flag sandy beach with a natural harbour and lifeguarded during the bathing season.  Nearby is the Derrynane Abbey & Burialground.  Access to the beach is also available from nearby Derrynane House, home on Daniel O'Connell.

If you have a little more time, Alaind Resort recommend a detour to take in the Mass Walk which starts at the pier beyond the beach. It is a 'Moderate' class hill walk along a way marked trail of circa 6km and will take 2.5 - 3hrs depending on fitness.  Boots and jackets are required. 

We're happy to help our guests organise walking poles, packed lunches and route maps.  You can select from a range of packages or contact us directly if you want help in designing your perfect activity holiday package.

The 2018 Ring of Beara Cycle sold out in record time!

The Ring of Beara Cycle is happening on 26th May but was 'sold out' in just a few hours.  There is, however, a waiting list for those hoping for a chance to participate in.

The annual Ring of Kerry Cycle will take place this year on Saturday 7th July and once again places are expected to fill quickly.