The Ring of Kerry is calling. Let’s stay in a cute, small town that is a cheaper alternative to the famous Killarney.
When summer comes, Killarney will be crowded. That’s a fact. It’s a hot spot. However, if you want more of an authentic feel to your Kerry trip, stay in one of the other towns nearby.
Kenmare, County Kerry is a great alternative. It’s close to tourist routes, not as crowded, and often more affordable than the popular choice. Go for charm over crowds. We’ll show you what’s waiting for you there.
Irish town vibes – colourful and photoworthy
First things first – Kenmare is around 32 kilometres (20 miles) from Killarney, so you’re still right in the centre of everything.
You get charming town vibes without chaos. Bonus: Those cute photoworthy spots with colourful houses. It’s a photo you want, isn’t it?
There’s a good bus connection to Killarney and Cork, so if you’re arriving without a car, you can still get around (but you’re more flexible with a car). Just to manage expectations: It’s not completely off the tourist radar, which isn’t necessarily bad.
You can get everything you need – just without the Killarney crowds. Sounds like a dream, right? Great for travellers without all the travellers? Yes, it’s possible. OK, you might run into other travellers here, too. Just fewer.
Ring of Kerry – close enough to the must-see route
Kenmare’s location is pretty much perfect for your road trip. You’re super close to the Ring of Kerry to see and explore all the beautiful nature of the region. In fact, Kenmare is considered one of the unmissable stops of the Ring of Kerry.
If you want to save a bit of money, you could also walk the Kerry Way. There’s a route from Kenmare as well.
It’s one of your budget-friendly options for the Ring of Kerry. In fact, the Kerry Way is one of the most beautiful long-distance hiking trails in Ireland.
Even if you’re not into walking, it tells you one thing for sure: You’re right where you want to be to explore. So whatever you do – car, day tour, hiking – Kenmare is your base to see what the Ring of Kerry has to offer.
Ring of Beara – hidden gem close by
Here’s a secret: The Ring of Kerry is not the only ring you should be going for. If you want your Gollum moment and say “My precious”, go and explore the Ring of Beara as well. It’s a rugged, wonderful alternative to the Ring of Kerry.
The scenic route will take you around the Beara Peninsula with many stunning stops. Incredible landscapes? You got it. Colourful villages? Absolutely. Waterfalls and beaches? Oh yes, plenty of them.
The best part? You don’t have to choose between the famous spot and the hidden gem. Kenmare lets you explore both of these wonderful Irish destinations because you chose a base that gives you options. Smart traveller hack unlocked!
Foodie town – great restaurants and pubs are waiting
Still unsure if you should pick the less famous town over the known spot? If you really need more reasons to pick Kenmare, how about the food options? It packs serious flavour for a small town. Foodie experience + Irish atmosphere in one.
Of course, you can do your regular restaurant and/or pub visit here. However, you can also book a foodie tour. Run by food blogger and TV chef Karen Coakley, this tour lets you experience what the up-and-coming food scene of Kenmare has to offer.
The tour lasts around 2.5–3 hours. You can try local delicacies, have some good wine, meet new people, and hear the stories that are behind the food.
After all the walking and exploring you’re going to do with the Rings, you might need that delicious food.
Looking at the numbers – where can you save money?
Now, if we look at the cost points, how much would you save when staying in Kenmare? It does depend on several factors, of course. The big one is, what type of traveller are you? Solo? Family? Budget? Are you travelling during high or low season?
The biggest cost point is your accommodation. Let’s say, we’re looking for something this summer, 4 nights, 2 people. The starting price for that is €500 (total). For Killarney, your starting price would be €540 – same criteria.
Unless you’re opting for a hostel, your accommodation in Killarney costs more. The money you’re saving there, could go towards a nice dinner. Speaking of dinner: The prices vary for food and drink.
You can go to a nice sit-down restaurant and pay for a set menu. You might also choose to enjoy a bit of grub at the pub. The choice is yours, but they do come at different cost points.
Bonus fun fact – Star Trek to Harry Potter
Now you might be thinking that you’ve heard the name Kenmare before. You might have. In pop culture. It was mentioned in a Star Trek episode, and there was even a Quidditch team in Harry Potter called Kenmare Kestrels.
As you can see, the smaller, maybe slightly less famous towns do offer some great alternatives to the well-known towns. When it comes to the Ring of Kerry, you want to find a base that works for you.
Kenmare could be just that place for you. Depending on what your Kerry itinerary is like, it could be where you’re spending your next summer. Or maybe you’re driving through. Whatever option you choose, you won’t regret seeing Kenmare.
