Romantic Restaurants, Getaway Places in Kenmare

"A bounty of tropical vegetation that sits incongruously on a craggy island, Ilnacullin Island (also known as Garnish Island) is home to Asian trees, shrubs and exotic flowers. Set across 37 acres (15ha), the plants benefit from a distinct microclimate, sheltered by the warmth of the sea in Bantry Bay. It’s a sublime sight, and a short 15-minute ferry trip transports you from Glengarriff Pier to this tropical-themed island."

"This horticultural miracle of an island was created in the early 20th century when the island's owner commissioned architect Harold Peto to design a garden on the then-barren outcrop. Topsoil was shipped in,... Top ChoiceFort in Kinsale"

"Many visitors head to Glengarriff because of that Irish Eden, Ilnacullin. On Garnish Island, offshore from Glengarriff and beyond islets…"

"Finally, we’re onto one of the more unique restaurants Killarney has to offer. Fans of the Lord of the Ring movies will most definitely want to check out Killarney’s Shire Bar and Café. With hobbit-themed interiors, a visit to this café feels like stepping inside Middle Earth."

"A truly unique pub that’s a definite must-visit in Killarney. The Shire was named after the homeland of the hobbits in Middle Earth, a fictional world created by the late great J. R. R. Tolkien in his fantasy book series Lord of The Rings."

"Signposted 1.5km northeast of Muckross House, this well-preserved ruin (actually a friary, though everyone calls it an abbey) was founded in 1448 and burned by Cromwell's troops in 1652. There's a square-towered church and a small, atmospheric cloister with a giant yew tree in the centre (legend has it that the tree is as old as the abbey). In the chancel is the tomb of the McCarthy Mòr chieftains, and an elaborate 19th-century memorial to local philanthropist Lucy Gallwey."

"5km West of Ballingeary on R584 to Bantry, at the Pass of Keimaneigh, Gougane Barra, Ballingeary Ireland+353 21 488 2218http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?"

"Located in the heart of Killarney town, The Cellar Restaurant is a unique and innovative restaurant with friendly staff. They have a wide range of food offerings from spectacular breakfast delights to an evening offering of wood-fired flat-breads and arancini delights to succulent surf n’ turf and fish specials. Afterwards, you can try one of their famed cocktails and soak in the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere."

"Visitors with an eye for flamboyant design will love the Ross hotel, set in the heart of Killarney town. Rooms are a riot of crushed velvet, bold patterns and exotic tones, while huge suites also add flickering fireplaces. Enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner at the Cellar restaurant, or head to the jazzy surrounds of the Lane for creative cocktails and gourmet finger food."

"Kerry, Killarney V93 WY60, IrelandReservations, Private Dining, Seating, Waitstaff, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free Wifi, Highchairs AvailableIrish, European, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free OptionsLunch, Dinner, Late NightHK$94 - HK$385+353 64 663 1855"

"Lakeside Ross Castle dates back to the 15th century, when it was a residence of the O'Donoghue family. It was the last place in Munster to succumb to Cromwell's forces, thanks partly to its cunning spiral staircase, every step of which is a different height in order to break an attacker's stride. The castle is a lovely 2.6km walk or bike ride southwest of the St Mary's Cathedral pedestrian park entrance; you may well spot deer along the way."

"So we opted to explore Killarney National Park a bit, which included a tour of Ross Castle and a visit to Muckross House and its gardens. Ross CastleMuckross House"

"After reading that Murphy’s Ice Cream is a must while in Ireland we stopped here for a treat while we took a walk to Ross Castle. We could of filled up on the samples alone, again as all of Ireland had been the staff was outstanding and helpful in understanding the options. Murphy’s Has locations in most major towns and cities in Ireland."

"5km West of Ballingeary on R584 to Bantry, at the Pass of Keimaneigh, Gougane Barra, Ballingeary Ireland+353 21 488 2218http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?"

"The food dished up by the fine folks at Café Du Parc is some of the most overlooked breakfast Killarney has to offer, and one glance at the photos above should tell you why!. Known for its “funky brunch” where you can sip on mimosas, coffees, juices and anything else your heart desires. There’s a Parisian cafe atmosphere as soon as you enter and the freshly baked goods further reinforce that feeling."

"Duck down the alley to this local hideout for deli sandwiches, coffee and cake, and a changing menu of hot lunch dishes such as shepherd's pie. It’s all made with locally sourced produce. There are a few tables..."

"8 Fleming's Lane, Killarney, IrelandReservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Waitstaff, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free WifiIrish, European, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free OptionsLunch, Dinner, Brunch, Late Night+353 (0)64-34295"

"Signposted 1.5km northeast of Muckross House, this well-preserved ruin (actually a friary, though everyone calls it an abbey) was founded in 1448 and burned by Cromwell's troops in 1652. There's a square-towered church and a small, atmospheric cloister with a giant yew tree in the centre (legend has it that the tree is as old as the abbey). In the chancel is the tomb of the McCarthy Mòr chieftains, and an elaborate 19th-century memorial to local philanthropist Lucy Gallwey."

"Opened in 1837 as a hunting lodge, this magnificent estate sprawls over 17 hectares incorporating a waterfall, beach and six different gardens, ranging from palms to a primeval fern forest with dinosaurs carved from fallen trees. Ireland's longest rope bridge, the 33.5m Skywalk, sways precariously 11m above the River Delligeenagh, which swirls through the property.Walled kitchen gardens and farm animals provide ingredients for its Thai restaurant (mains €10 to €15.50). It's also possible to stay here (double/suite from €85/140)."

"Run by the Buckley family for almost 100 years, the Arbutus is the place to come for genuine Irish warmth and hospitality. This homely and affordable accommodation is situated right in the heart of the Killarney on College Street so everything you need is just moments away. Comfy rooms are waiting upstairs while downstairs the handsome dining room will kickstart your day with a full Irish breakfast."