Wild Atlantic Way
The Wild Atlantic Way is the world’s longest defined coastal touring route. It’s inspiring, renewing, relaxing and invigorating. The Wild Atlantic Way is yours to experience however you choose.
From its northernmost point in Donegal to its southernmost in Cork, the Wild Atlantic Way offers one of the world’s most diverse and spectacular coastlines. Immerse yourself in the culture, music and food found in the towns and villages along the way, climb the most breathtaking heights and experience a landscape that revives the soul.
THE ROUTE
2500 KM
160 DISCOVERY POINTS
15 SIGNATURE DISCOVERY POINTS
26 ISLANDS TO DISCOVER
150 HIDDEN GEMS
Kenmare is so lucky to be situated on the this famous touring route We edge both the world famous Ring of Kerry, or Iveragh Peninsula, and the lesser-known Ring of Beara. Home to Ireland’s highest peaks and waterfalls,We are also close to Derrynane House and Beach, Muckross House, Ladies View and Torc Waterfalls, Killarney National Park, Ross Castle, Garnish Island and the Skellig Michael World Heritage Site, while the Dingle Peninsula is about 1.5 hours away
It's located at the head of beautiful Kenmare Bay which stretches 50 kilometres from Kenmare out to the Atlantic Ocean. The name is an anglicised version of Ceann Mara which translates into 'head of the sea' in English. The original Irish name for the town is 'Neidin' meaning ' little nest ' because the town 'nestles' amongst the surrounding mountains which are such a striking feature of the landscape.
Its protected position and proximity to the Gulf Stream mean that the climate which Kenmare enjoys is mild and of course, since we're talking 'Ireland' here..damp. It's unusual to experience extremely low winter temperatures - ice and snow etc., but spring and summer temperatures can be high.
The town itself has a population of around 1,800 (in 2009) and retains the 'village' feel that it's had since it was established as Ireland's first 'planned' town back in 1670. The historical, cultural and environmental significance of the place was officially recognised by Bord Failte [the then tourist board of Ireland] in the early 1990s when it was designated a 'Heritage Town'.
Kenmare town has a unique identity of vibrant coloured, characterful buildings and its inhabitants' pride and concern for the immediate environment has twice resulted in Kenmare winning the 'Tidy Towns' competition - in 2000 and 2008. This is an annual, national event and Kenmare was also a runner-up in 2003. The 'Tidy Towns' awards are accolades of which the locals are justifiably proud.
Brook Lane Hotel is Kenmare’s only four star Boutique Hotel
The Wild Atlantic Way App is your trusted guide along the Atlantic Coast of Ireland. This free app is available to download for iOS and Android. - http://www.wildatlanticway.com/pages/the-app/
Check out some of the latest videos from the Wild Atlantic Way here
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQR0kyR2m6lMPbkOA-tvv-h3J1O_vIUJP
