Kerry’s tourism and outdoor recreation offering is set for an exciting boost with two significant new projects currently underway. The first, a €2.13 million upgrade to the Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point at Bray Head, Valentia Island, and the second, a state-of-the-art €1.3 million Water Sports Facility in Fenit, are both aimed at enhancing visitor experiences while also benefiting local communities. These developments highlight the county’s ongoing commitment through Kerry County Council and supporting partners to expanding its outdoor tourism offerings, increasing accessibility, and ensuring sustainable growth for future generations.
Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point Upgrade at Bray Head
A delegation from Kerry County Council. Failte Ireland Pictured at Bray Head, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry to mark the beginning of construction on the upgraded Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan
Earlier this month saw the official commencement of construction on the upgraded Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point at Bray Head, Valentia Island, following a generous investment from Fáilte Ireland. The €2.13 million project, in partnership with Kerry County Council, will see the restoration of the historic Signal Tower including the construction of a new concrete spiral staircase and a viewing platform offering breathtaking views of the Skellig Islands and the South West coast. Additionally, the access road and car park will be upgraded to improve accessibility, ensuring a more comfortable visit for locals and tourists alike.
Since its inception in 2014, the Wild Atlantic Way has been an iconic route showcasing Ireland’s most spectacular coastal landscapes and rich historical sites. Bray Head is one of 187 Discovery Points along the 2,500km route, and with these upgrades, it’s set to become an even more attractive destination for tourists. Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy incredible views of Skellig Michael, the Blasket Islands, and the stunning South Kerry coastline, all while learning about the area's rich heritage through the preserved Signal Tower.
New €1.3 Million Water Sports Facility in Fenit
Pictured Paul Curry - Senior Engineer - Kerry County Council, Fiona Monaghan Fáilte Ireland, Hilary Creedon Fáilte Ireland, Mayor of Tralee Municipal District, Cllr. Mikey Sheehy and Ned O'Shea of Ned O'Shea. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD.
Across the coastline of the Kingdom, another exciting development is taking place in Fenit, where the new €1.3 million Water Sports Facility is now under construction. Funded by Fáilte Ireland and Kerry County Council, this project is set to be a game-changer for outdoor recreation in the area. The facility will provide year-round amenities, including hot showers, changing rooms, toilets, secure storage and equipment washdown areas – all designed with accessibility and sustainability in mind.
A key feature of the new facility will be its focus on inclusivity, with full wheelchair access and family changing facilities, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the outdoors. The project is part of Fáilte Ireland’s Platforms for Growth Programme, which aligns with the Government’s Project Ireland 2040 strategy. It aims to extend the tourism season in Fenit and surrounds, drawing visitors for water-based adventures well beyond the summer months. The state-of-the-art facility is expected to attract water sports enthusiasts and bolster Fenit’s appeal as a must-visit destination for kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, and more.
A Bright Future for Kerry’s Tourism
These developments are a testament to the ongoing investment in Kerry’s tourism infrastructure, which continues to thrive thanks to collaboration between Fáilte Ireland, Kerry County Council, and local communities. The new amenities will not only boost tourism but also enhance the appeal of Kerry’s outdoor recreation offerings, creating new opportunities for local businesses and communities to benefit from increased visitor numbers. Moreover, the continued focus on sustainable and accessible tourism will ensure that these stunning natural landscapes and heritage sites can be enjoyed by generations to come.
The ongoing development of tourism infrastructure in Kerry underscores the county’s commitment to providing high-quality, sustainable experiences for visitors while preserving its rich natural and cultural heritage. Whether exploring the breathtaking views at Bray Head or enjoying water sports in Fenit, these new projects are sure to make Kerry even more attractive to locals and tourists alike.
