As much as we love to be beside the seaside on a sunny day in Kerry, sometimes you should try to tear yourself away from the golden sand and wild Atlantic waves – I know, it’s hard!! So, to tempt you, here’s our list of well known and not so well known things to do and see while you are on holiday in Cromane in the Reeks District or in nearby Killarney, Tralee or Dingle
REALT NA MARA OYSTER TOURS, CROMANE
Book your seat with Realt na Mara Shellfish on the scenic Ring of Kerry to see first hand how they grow our oysters from seed to adult. You will learn about the techniques used to grow our famous Cromane oysters, how they are grown and how they get them to their desired shape. Try your hand at shucking your own oyster with tips and tricks to get it right each time. Finally taste the Wild Atlantic Way by sampling Cromane’s delicious Irish oysters au natural. For bookings, visit their website HERE
BOATHOUSE GUIDED WALKS, CROMANE
Book a guided walk along Cromane’s beach with a local legend who can’t wait to share it’s historical stories with you. Meet your guide at the Boathouse for introductions where you will also receive a complimentary €5 voucher to spend on the Boathouse Café before or after your walk. For bookings, visit their website HERE
BURKES BEACH TREKS, GLENBEIGH
Rossbeigh Beach Riding is an experience which you will never forget. Located on the world-renowned Ring of Kerry and only 10 minutes from Cromane and 30 minutes from Killarney town in Glenbeigh, the Centre has established a reputation in recent years as “a trekker’s paradise”.
Riding along on Rossbeigh Beach close to the water’s edge is an experience riders of all levels will thoroughly enjoy. From trail riding through the spectacular scenery that surrounds Rossbeigh to a gentle ride along the beach, Trek along miles of country road surrounded by scenery which will take your breath away. Contact Ger at Burkes Beach Treks for bookings.
KELLS BAY HOUSE & GARDENS, KELLS
Kells Bay Gardens is one of Europe’s premier horticultural experiences, containing a renowned collection of Tree-ferns and other exotic plants growing in its unique microclimate created by the Gulf Stream. It is the home of ‘The SkyWalk’ Ireland’s longest rope-bridge – kids will love it there too with a huge variety of dinosaur shaped tree stumps as you admire the dramatic views of Dingle Bay. For tickets and information click HERE
GALLARUS ORATORY, DINGLE
The Gallarus Oratory is one of Irelands best preserved and most iconic early Christian Churches. Over 1000 years old and one of the many highlights on the Slea Head Drive. With breathtaking views of Smerwick Harbour, the Three Sisters and Mount Brandon – it really is a must see for anyone visiting Dingle. For more information on opening house, parking etc visit their website HERE
GAP OF DUNLOE, KILLARNEY
Visible for miles around, the iconic Gap of Dunloe, between the highest mountains in Ireland (McGillycuddy Reeks) and Killarney’s Purple and Tomies mountains, has been attracting attention for centuries. Hire a pony and ride on horseback or take a trip via pony & trap through the Gap of Dunloe. You’ll find the ponies for hire at the head of the Gap, just after Kate Kearney’s. If you are a rock climbing enthusiast, you probably know that the old red sandstone offers the best inland rock climbing in Kerry or if you would prefer for your feet to remain firmly on terra firma, then walking is one of the best ways to appreciate the sheer beauty of the place up close. For more information on all the things you can do ‘Up The Gap’ as locals say, click HERE
SURFING, INCH BEACH
Inch Beach is one of Reek’s District’s two Blue Flag beaches and less than an hour from Cromane with excellent surf conditions for most of the year. Autumn is when the surf really comes to life. This massive Blue Flag beach has it all – including a hire shop and surf school, that can get you kitted out and on the water in minutes. For more information on surfing on Inch beach visit Reeks District website HERE
SPLASH SPORTS, CASTLEGREGORY
Watersports fun with Phillip and his crew at Splash Sports in Castlegregory on the North side of the stunning Dingle Peninsula and only 1 hr from Cromane. You can try kayaking, hop on the water trampolines, water slides and boogie boards. Take an exhilarating ride on one of their powerboats or maybe take a surfing lessons. It’s such a fun day out for young and old . For more information have a look at their website HERE
That’s our list so far, I’m sure we’ll be adding to this on our days off from working in our bar and restaurant over the coming months. We hope you enjoy our suggestions – and don’t forget if you’re looking to stay a few days, you can book our self catering cottages HERE or if you would prefer to just have a bite to eat with us before or after your trip,we’d love to have you! For last minute reservations contact us on 066 9769102 or book ahead by booking online HERE
Written by P Moroney
