Travel slowly, enjoy the view — discover charming towns, quiet beaches, and hidden gems by train, bus, bike, and greenway.

 

Enjoy Heritage at an Easy Pace

From the rich history of Listowel Castle to the tranquil beauty of Banna Strand, we invite you to explore North Kerry at an easy pace so you can step away from the rush of everyday life and experience the region in your own time. Whether you're exploring coastal cliffs, wandering through scenic villages, or soaking in the vibrant local culture, North Kerry offers the perfect mix of adventure and calm. Ready to explore? Your weekend getaway awaits!

Stay Longer

If travelling by public transport, to make your trip smoother, base yourself in accommodation close to bus or train stations. This will allow you to easily explore the region - and Kerry's towns and villages are mostly close knit and often accommodation is just a short walk / drive from transportation hubs.

Plan to spend a little extra time in each place to really immerse yourself in the local culture, history, and natural beauty. Taking your time allows you to appreciate the charm of the area, as we think you'll be really surprised by our history, heritage, culture and hidden gems!

Day 1: Arrive & Settle In

For your introduction to this stunning region, stay in Listowel on your first night - it's the literary heart of Kerry. As you arrive, the town’s charm will be immediately evident — with its colourful shop fronts, friendly faces, and rich cultural atmosphere. Once you’ve checked into your accommodation, it’s time to ease into the weekend and enjoy what Listowel does best: great food, vibrant local culture, and warm hospitality.

 

You’ll find several excellent spots for dinner within walking distance of the town’s central hotels. Christy’s Bar offers tasty bar food with locally sourced ingredients in a relaxed and friendly setting. For something a little more refined, Allo’s Restaurant is a long-standing favourite for high-quality meals in a charming, cosy atmosphere. The Horseshoe Bar is another great local choice, known for its hearty dishes and genuine Listowel welcome.

After dinner, take in a show at St. John’s Theatre, where you’ll find a mix of family-friendly performances, live music, and local talent on stage throughout the year. Later, enjoy a drink and some live traditional music in one of the town’s legendary pubs. John B. Keane’s Pub, steeped in literary history, often features pop-up Irish language sessions on Fridays. Or try Mike the Pies, renowned across the country for its excellent live music line-up and lively atmosphere.

Day 2: Listowel, Tarbert & Carrigafoyle 

Start your morning with a wander around Listowel Castle, one of the town’s most iconic landmarks. Then pop into the Kerry Writers' Museum, where North Kerry’s rich storytelling tradition comes to life — it’s a must for anyone who loves Irish culture and literature. 

Feeling a bit more active? Rent a bike from O'Sullivan Cycles Listowel and hit the Listowel Greenway. Whether you cycle or stroll, it’s a peaceful way to take in the countryside.

While exploring Listowel, and for something completely unique, check out the Lartigue Monorail Museum — a quirky little stop where you can ride a replica of the old monorail that once ran through the town. 

In the afternoon, head to Tarbert - the Tarbert Bridewell Courthouse and Jail Museum gives a fascinating look into local history, complete with stories from the old courtroom and cells.

If you’ve time, make your way to Carrigafoyle Castle — it’s one of those hidden gems worth the detour. Open from May 9th – October 28th, this stronghold was an important defensive location on the Shannon Estuary. 

Finish the day with a visit to Ballybunion, where you can unwind and take in the coastal beauty of the town. Ballybunion offers a variety of welcoming places to stay, from modern hotels with scenic views to cozy, family-run guesthouses. Visitors can also enjoy fresh, locally sourced food at stylish eateries throughout the town—all just a short walk from the beach and local attractions.

After exploring the coast and checking in to your accommodation, enjoy a memorable meal in Ballybunion with plenty of excellent local options to choose from. The Cliff Restaurant at The Cliff House offers a stunning seaside dining experience with dishes inspired by the ocean and featuring the freshest local seafood. McMunn’s Bar & Restaurant is another favourite, known for its delicious food, cosy atmosphere, and views of the Atlantic. For an elegant yet relaxed setting, try Teach de Broc Restaurant, offering a refined menu and warm hospitality, perfect after a day on the beach or the golf course.

After dinner, enjoy a relaxed evening stroll along Ballybunion Beach — famous for its scenic cliffs and beautiful sunset views. If you’re looking for more entertainment, check out Tinteán Theatre in Ballybunion. This theatre offers a variety of performances, from live music to plays, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. If you're up for more fun, Bunker Bar often hosts live music sessions, providing the perfect ambiance for a laid-back night out.

Day 3: Ballybunion & Ballyheigue

Start your day with a gentle stroll through Ballybunion’s vibrant town, where a playground right by the shore makes it ideal for little ones. The sea views are spectacular, and the dramatic cliffs add to the natural beauty of the area. While in Ballybunion, there’s plenty to explore: treat yourself to a relaxing session at the Collin's Seaweed Baths, take a short ramble to see the ruins of Ballybunion Castle. For a bit of fun, enjoy a game at the Crazy Golf course or take in the stunning scenery hike at Bromore Cliffs, which offers sweeping views of Nun’s Beach and Virgin Rock. For those seeking an elevated experience, take the scenic walk from town to the top of Cnoc an Óir — on a clear day, you can see five counties and even catch a glimpse of the Aran Islands, a breathtaking reward for your effort.

Next, head north to Ballyheigue, a charming coastal town known for its golden beach and relaxed atmosphere. Like Ballybunion, it has a playground beside the beach, making it ideal for families. Enjoy a stroll along the Blue Flag beach , go for a swim. Visit the romantic ruins of Ballyheigue Castle and enjoy a round at the nearby 9-hole golf course set within its grounds (always check for availability). For something different, join a guided shoreline foraging walk during the summer—a unique way to explore the coast.

Plan Your Visit

What to Pack

  • Comfortable walking shoes: Whether you’re wandering through towns like Listowel or Ballybunion, or exploring historical places, comfortable footwear is essential. There are plenty of trails and scenic routes that require walking or cycling, so make sure your shoes are up for the adventure.
     

  • Layers: The weather in Ireland can be unpredictable, even in summer, so it's best to pack layers. A warm jacket, rain gear, and sweaters will come in handy no matter what time of year you visit. Prepare for the possibility of rain and wind, as North Kerry's coastal location can bring unpredictable weather patterns.
     

  • Camera: North Kerry is a photographer’s dream. Make sure you have a camera or smartphone with plenty of storage to snap photos of the dramatic cliffs, wild beaches, and picturesque towns.

 

Have A Wonderful Time!

That's it - we hope you have a fantastic time exploring this beautiful part of Kerry! Tag us on Social media as you discover Kerry!