Killorglin, Co Kerry
Situated in the geographical heart of Kerry along the Laune River, the first stop on the way out of Killarney is the town of Killorglin. This lively town situated on a hill is best known for one of Ireland's oldest, longest and probably most unusual celebrated festivals - Puck Fair.
This annual event celebrated over three days in August honours an event during Cromwellian Ireland when a stampede of wild goats ran through the town warning the residents of the approach of Cromwell's Army. To celebrate this event a goat is captured and enthroned on a pedestal. The town really celebrates this historical event in style with a number of other events held in the town as well as the capturing of the goat. These additional events include ' The Guinness Busking Competition', Open air concerts and displays of dancing all laid on for the influx of 100,000 tourists. These visitors tend to arrive mainly from the US or Europe.
Killorglin is still a peaceful setting for a holiday as the area has many quiet roads and wonderful walks to enjoy. It is possibly best known for its numerous lakes which provide idyllic fishing grounds such as Lough Nakirka for trout fishing and Cara Lake for Salmon. As well as lake fishing there is also river and sea fishing (available at Ballykissane Pier, Killorglin ) and like nearly every town in Kerry there are a number of Golf courses close by including Beaufort Golf Club , Dooks Golf Club , Dunloe Golf Range and Killorglin Golf club itself.
There are plenty of lively spots to be found in the town of Killorglin with traditional music in many.
Monuments:
Two monuments are worth visiting in the area. The first was erected to Townsend Blennerhasset, a member of the Kerry Militia, who was drowned in 1867 while rescuing a friend. The second is located at Ballykissane pier, where three Irish Volunteers were drowned when they took a wrong turn as they were on their way to Cahirsiveen to attempt to make wireless contact with Roger Casement when he came ashore at Banna from a German U-boat.
Dromavalla Church:
The ruins of this old church still remain standing and shows that sections were built at different times. The church may have been erected by the Audustine Friars from Killagha Abbey in nearby Milltown.
Castle Conway:
The first castle built on this site may have been in 1587 shortly after Jenkin Conway was granted Killorglin Manor by Queen Elizabeth I. By 1600 it was burned to the ground by the MacCarthys, the now ruined tower house was built by the successors the Blennerhassetts.
Golden Sandy Beach: A stretch of safe and sandy beach which can be enjoyed by both swimmers and walkers alike is convenient to Killorglin town.
Restaurants: A selection of world renowned restaurants are available in Killorglin with menus to suit all tastes and palates.
Essentials: Fine restaurants, pubs, supermarkets and shops are located in the town of Killorglin.