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Kenmare is the best base for a quiet, upmarket stay in Kerry — a refined little town of artisan shops and excellent restaurants, sitting where the Ring of Kerry meets the Beara Peninsula. Stay in or near the town centre; it's compact and walkable, and home to the five-star Park Hotel Kenmare.
How Kenmare rates as a base for different kinds of traveller.
Why Base Yourself in Kenmare
Kenmare is Kerry's most graceful small town — a neat, three-street layout laid out in the 18th century, full of independent shops, galleries and some of the best food in the southwest. Where Killarney bustles, Kenmare keeps things calm and considered, which is exactly why couples and food-minded travellers choose it.
Its location is the quiet masterstroke: Kenmare sits at the southern end of the Ring of Kerry and at the head of the Beara Peninsula, so you can drive either of two of Ireland's great coastal loops straight from the door — and the Ring tends to be quieter approached from this side. Add the Gleninchaquin waterfall, the stone circle on the edge of town, and easy reach of Killarney National Park, and a smaller, smarter town earns its place as a base.
Where to Stay in Kenmare by Area
Town Centre
Walk to every restaurant, café and shop. Kenmare is small enough that the centre is the obvious choice — and where the best dining is.
Edge of Town / Bay Side
A short walk or drive from the centre, with views over Kenmare Bay and the mountains — the pick for a romantic, restful stay.
Best Hotels & Stays in Kenmare
Kenmare punches well above its size on quality. Listed by tier; prices shift by season so we've kept to bands.
- ★Park Hotel Kenmare — the landmark five-star, with bay views and a renowned spa; the special-occasion splurge.
- ★Sheen Falls Lodge — 5-star riverside resort on a 300-acre estate, two miles outside Kenmare; the destination splurge for a special occasion.
- ★The Lansdowne Kenmare — stylish boutique hotel in the heart of town; modern, central and walkable to Henry Street.
- ◆Brook Lane Hotel — contemporary mid-range hotel on the edge of town, with a well-regarded restaurant and easy access to both peninsulas.
- ◆The Coachman's Townhouse — boutique townhouse hotel right on Henry Street, with a buzzy bar and restaurant downstairs.
- •O'Donnabhain's Townhouse — traditional Irish bar with rooms above; town-centre, friendly and excellent value.
Self-Catering & Cottages
Cottages around Kenmare and along the bay suit couples and small groups wanting a quiet, scenic base for exploring both the Ring of Kerry and the Beara Peninsula.
Browse Kenmare self-catering & homes — coming soonThings to Do From Kenmare
Kenmare's best days out — book the popular ones ahead in summer:
- 🚌Ring of Kerry tour from Kenmare — the classic loop, often quieter started from this side.
- ⛰️Beara Peninsula drive — the wilder, less-travelled loop right on Kenmare's doorstep.
- 💧Gleninchaquin Park & waterfall — a stunning glacial valley walk near town.
How Many Nights in Kenmare?
Two — enough for the town's restaurants and a day each on the Ring of Kerry and the Beara Peninsula.
Yes — Kenmare sits on the Ring of Kerry route and is the southern gateway, with the bonus of the Beara Peninsula on its doorstep.
Killarney for nightlife, choice and amenities; Kenmare for a quieter, more upmarket and gourmet stay. See Where to Stay in Killarney.
Planning the Rest of Kerry
Kenmare is one of three great bases in Kerry. See the full picture in our Where to Stay in Kerry guide, or compare the other bases:
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend places we'd send our own friends.