Choose from 35 Fun Things to Do in South West Ireland
Derrynane House
- Derrynane House is a must-see for Irish history buffs and families, who will enjoy the trails in the surrounding parkland.
- Guided tours for groups of up to 25 people are available.
- A tearoom at the house is open from Easter through September.
- Derrynane House is wheelchair accessible.
Ballycarbery Castle
- Bring a camera; the romantic ruins make an excellent photo opportunity.
- Viewing is from the roadside; wear comfortable shoes and rain gear.
- Respect the signs on the fence barring public admission and do not attempt to cross beyond them.
Blarney Stone
- If you are afraid of heights, kissing the Blarney Stone may not be for you, as there is a long drop below it.
- The stone is located on the castle’s roofless battlements, where visitors are exposed to the elements. Bring rain gear and sunscreen so you aren’t caught off guard by the weather.
- The Blarney Stone is only accessible via a steep, spiral staircase.
Ladies' View
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Blasket Islands
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Cahergall Fort
- Cahergall Fort is a must for history buffs and those traveling with children, who will enjoy running around the open ruins.
- Bring a camera to capture images of the surrounding countryside from atop the fort’s walls.
- Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes so you can easily navigate the uneven stone steps, even in changeable weather.
Dingle
- Though Dingle is part of an Irish-speaking area known as a Gaeltacht, English is widely spoken.
- Like most of County Kerry and Ireland as a whole, Dingle’s weather can be unpredictable, so rain gear is a must.
- Book a boat tour from Dingle during summer and you might spot killer whales, minke whales, or even humpback whales, all in addition to several species of dolphin.
Kinsale
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Jameson Experience
- The Jameson Experience is a must for whiskey-lovers.
- The distillery has free Wi-Fi, parking, and an on-site restaurant.
- Tours visit indoor and outdoor areas, so bring along rain gear.
- The distillery is wheelchair accessible.
Gallarus Oratory
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Connor Pass
Starting from Dingle Town, the road rises 1,500 feet as it approaches the pass. There is a parking lot at the highest point where you can stop and admire the views of the coast. Then as you continue along the road, you will pass Brandon Bay and more cliffs, waterfalls, and lakes. The road also crosses the Brandon Mountains with Ireland's second highest peak, Brandon Mountain at 3,217 feet tall. The road is usually open all year but can be closed during winter months due to weather or if the snow has not been cleared.
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Cobh Heritage Centre
- Cobh Heritage Centre is a must for history buffs and anyone with an interest in Irish emigration.
- The center houses a café that sells hot and cold drinks, hot meals, sandwiches, and more.
- Free Wi-Fi is available at the center.
- The center is wheelchair accessible.
Gap of Dunloe
- A one-way walk along the length of the pass, from Kate Kearney’s Cottage to Lord Brandon’s Cottage, typically takes about 2.5 hours.
- Wear comfortable footwear and bring rain gear in case of showers.
- Choose to end your tour on a high note by adding an optional boat ride across the Lakes of Killarney.
Leacanabuaile Fort
- Leacanabuaile Fort is fun families with children, who will enjoy running around the ruins.
- Take a camera to capture images of the neighboring Cahergall Fort from the ramparts of Leacanabuaile.
- Bring waterproof walking shoes and rain gear in case of wet weather.
Aghadoe Church and Round Tower
Here on Aghadoe Hill stand the ruins of the 12th century Aghadoe Church and Round Tower. There was a monastery on the site since the 7th century, however, founded by St Finian Lobhar, and no wonder as the views are sublime and perfect for a life of contemplation. There are lakes and at night the town lights of Killarney twinkle, alongside the flood lights of Ross Castle in the distance, although that is a bit more recent dating from the 15th century! To appreciate the landscape, you'll find a few benches nearby so bring a picnic.
Although ruined, there is still plenty to see of interest at Aghadoe Church. The Romanesque door is well-preserved, there is a carved crucifixion scene on another sandstone block, two ca rved faces on the eastern window, and an Ogham Stone - carved writings in the ancient Celtic language. Not much is left of the Round Tower. It is really just a small stump of the sandstone building standing in an old cemetery.
Not far north-west of Killarney (2 miles / 3.2 km), the ruined church and tower are close to the Aghadoe Heights Hotel. You can park in a carpark just before the hotel and walk across to the church.
Killarney National Park
- Killarney National Park is a must-visit for walkers, wildlife lovers, and history buffs.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring rainproof gear, as the weather here can be unpredictable.
- Day tours typically last between six and 11 hours.
- Most areas of Muckross House are accessible to wheelchair users. Ross Castle has only limited accessibility.
Cobh Cathedral
- Cobh Cathedral is a must for amateur photographers, offering an excellent vantage point over Cork Harbour.
- Cobh Cathedral is still a functioning house of worship, so be respectfully quiet during your visit..
- The cathedral is wheelchair-accessible via a ramped entrance.
Drombeg Stone Circle
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Charles Fort
- Charles Fort is a must for families, with lots of open space for kids to run around.
- Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear, as some surfaces are uneven and weather is always changeable.
- Restrooms and a tearoom are situated at the fort.
- The exhibition center is wheelchair-accessible, though the fort itself is only partially accessible.
English Market
- The English Market is a must for foodies.
- Bring along cash as not all traders accept credit cards.
- The market is wheelchair accessible via level entrances on Princes Street and Grand Parade.
- There is a sit-down café at the market, as well as several takeaway spots selling sandwiches and prepared foods.