A Guide To The Village Of Cahersiveen In Kerry: Things To Do, Accommodation, Food + More

If you’re debating staying in Cahersiveen In Kerry, you’ve landed in the right place.

Known as the Gateway to the Skellig Region, Cahersiveen is a town that’s surrounded by many of the best places to visit in Kerry.

Which makes it a great base to explore the county! Whether you want stunning countryside, watersports or bags of history, Cahersiveen has it all.

In the guide below, you’ll discover everything from things to do in Cahersiveen in Kerry to where to eat, sleep and where to grab a post-adventure pint.

Some quick need to knows about Cahersiveen In Kerry

Although a visit to Cahersiveen in Kerry is nice and straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.

1. Location

Located in the south west of Ireland in the beautiful Ring of Kerry region, Cahersiveen is ideally positioned for those looking to explore what is one of the nation’s wildest, most naturally stunning areas. 

2. At the heart of endless beauty

Much quieter than the towns of Dingle and Killarney, Cahersiveen is a perfect spot to base yourself for trips into the stunning Ring of Kerry.

With easy access to both the coast and in-land mountainous areas, the town of Cahersiveen is a popular tourist locale for its charm and ideal positioning.

3. The birthplace of Daniel O’Connell

Born at Carhan near Cahersiveen, Daniel O’Connell was political leader of Ireland’s Catholics in the first half of the 19th century. In 1829, O’Connell’s efforts led to the Catholic Emancipation, which eased restrictions on Catholic worship in Ireland and beyond.

Things to do in Cahersiveen (and nearby)

Photo by Johannes Rigg (Shutterstock)

One of the beauties of Cahersiveen is that it’s a short spin away from a clatter of other attractions, both man-made and natural.

Below, you’ll find a handful of things to see and do a stone’s throw from Cahersiveen (plus places to eat and where to grab a post-adventure pint!).

1. Head up to the Top of the Rock Viewing Platform Trail

At just over half a kilometre, the trail here has a slight incline and it is suitable for all ages and abilities.

There are no less than fifteen historical sites to be taken in along the trail, with information boards detailing each of these.

On the trail there are plenty of spots for a picnic, with benches and all, that are perfect to relax and enjoy the vista.

Around 3kms from the town of Cahersiveen, this small town land is special due to the fact that it is home to stunning Ballycarbery Castle in addition to three Ring Forts dating back to 600AD.

2. Step back in time at Cahergall Stone Fort

Photo by andy morehouse (Shutterstock)

A stone ringfort and national monument, Cahergall is situated immediately southeast of Leacanabuaile, 2.7 km northwest of Cahirciveen.

The cashel was built around the 7th century AD as a defended farmstead. This is a circular stone ring fort, known as a caiseal, with an internal diameter of 25m with outer walls of 4m high and 5m thick.

For those interested in historical sites set amid verdant, wild natural beauty, Cahergall is also known as An Chathair Gheal in Irish.

3. Plan your visit around the Cahersiveen music festival

The Cahersiveen Festival of Music & The Arts has been running for the past 24 years. The festival is run annually every August Bank Holiday weekend and it looks to both protect and promote the culture and heritage of the local area.

The festival also looks to bring attention to the Wild Atlantic Way and develop local musical talent while bringing in plenty of visitors, boosting tourist numbers and bringing a huge leg up to the local economy each and every year.

With parades, musical concerts, a fun run and much more besides, this popular festival is a great insight into the local culture.

4. Visit The Old Barracks

Photo via Google Maps

A place to catch a glimpse into the history of the area in the Irish struggle for independence, The Old Barracks Heritage Centre exhibition is located in a former Royal Irish Constabulary Barracks looking across both the river and Cahersiveen Marina.

The Old Barracks Heritage Centre exhibition sits in an old Royal Irish Constabulary Barracks looking across both the river and Cahersiveen Marina. The exhibition has items of local history, archaeology, flora and fauna, the Fenian Rising. There is also a particularly interesting section on legendary local political figure Daniel O’Connell.

5. Brave the chilly water at White Strand

Photo by Johannes Rigg (Shutterstock)

The gorgeous White Strand is a arguably one of the best beaches in Kerry. This is a blue flag sandy beach located in Cahersiveen. There are amazing views of Valentia Island and Begnis Island, with marked walks in the vicinity.

White Strand is a lovely beach sitting in an Natural Heritage Area (NHA). There are plenty of historical things to enjoy closeby such as Ballycarbery Castle and Cahergal and Leacanabuaile Forts.

The beach also forms part of the Valentia Harbour and Portmagee Channel Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and the Iveragh Peninsula Special Protection Area (SPA).

6. Or the incredible Derrynane Beach

Photo by Johannes Rigg (Shutterstock)

Another stunning option for beach lovers in the Cahersiveen area is the extremely beautiful and extensive sandy beach in Derrynane Bay. 

Located particularly close to Derrynane House, you can follow directions for Derrynane House and then you will see signposts for Derrynane Beach. The village of Caherdaniel sits just two miles to the north west of the beach and is on the Ring of Kerry. 

7. Drive or cycle the Skellig Ring

Photo via Google Maps

Coming off the main Ring of Kerry, this 18km route connects Portmagee, Valentia Island and Waterville. The Skellig Ring is stunningly intense in its beauty, the sea-smacked sight of Skellig Michael is never far away.

A gorgeous island that is home to the ruins of a remote monastery from the 6th century, it is today an important spot for rare sea birds. 

The Skellig Ring is home to gorgeous seaside resorts, unique houses, rugged trails and a history that stretches all the way back to prehistory.

8. Explore the magnificent Valentia Island

Photo via Google Maps

Valentia Island is reachable via bridge from Portmagee. The journey takes just a few minutes and makes exploring this beautiful part of Ireland easy.

For those who prefer to use the ferry, the crossing takes 5 minutes and is a continuous shuttle operating every ten minutes, 7 days a week from April to October. 

One of the best ways to enjoy the sites and natural beauty of Valentia is to rent a bike, with plenty of stalls operating near the ferry terminal. Main attractions here include the Slate quarry, the Lighthouse at the Cromwell fort and Geokaun Mountain with its spectacular views.

9. Soak up the views at the Kerry Cliffs

Photo © The Irish Road Trip

Dramatic oceanside views are one of the highlights of a visit to this area of Ireland and the Kerry Cliffs provide one of the top examples of this in the entire nation.

Rising 300 metres over the Atlantic Ocean, the Kerry Cliffs are a dramatically unmissable sight. Rugged, raw and breathtakingly beautiful, a visit to this area of natural beauty should not be missed for anybody visiting the area.

On clear days, it is possible to see Skellig Michael from the cliffs, which provides a quality photo opportunity. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the rocks are accessible via boat trip from Portmagee.

Cahersiveen Accommodation

Photos via Strand’s End House on Booking.com

There are several places to stay in Cahersiveen that boast excellent reviews for those of you debating a stay in the town.

Note: if you book a hotel through one of the links below we’ll make a tiny commission that helps us keep this site going. You won’t pay extra, but we really do appreciate it.

1. Tigh Cladach

Tigh Cladach sits close to both the coast and Kells Lough Lake, a short drive from Cahersiveen. This little cottage is ideal for couples and offers a traditional holiday home experience that opens into a garden with stunning sea and mountain views.

With a garden, living room with a sofa, a fireplace and a flat-screen TV, the fully equipped kitchen offers both a dishwasher and a microwave. Tigh Cladach provides barbecue facilities and the surrounding hills offer ample opportunity for adventure.

Check prices + see photos here

2. Strand’s End House

This is a plush spot to stay close to Cahersiveen, offering free parking and bright rooms with garden and mountain vistas. Sitting within gorgeous gardens, the house provides free Wi-Fi and a large selection of breakfast items.

Light and airy, the rooms at Strand’s End House offer en suite bathrooms with a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. Guests can enjoy the TV in their room during the evenings.

Check prices + see photos here

3. Iveragh Heights

Just a short walk from the centre of Cahersiveen, Iveragh Heights offers excellent bed and breakfast accommodation at the heart of the Ring of Kerry. With en suite rooms offering a flat-screen TV and tea and coffee facilities, there are lovely views of the garden, river and mountains to enjoy. 

Rooms are light, airy and modern, whilst the en suite shower room with a hairdryer and toiletries makes for a highly comfortable experience. With free parking and WiFi, Iveragh Heights offers a range of breakfast options every morning, including a traditional cooked breakfast. 

Check prices + see photos here

4. Ring of Kerry Hotel

A boutique-style accommodation in Cahersiveen close to the Ring of Kerry, this family-run hotel has a home away from home vibe. Offering the chance to enjoy proper traditional hospitality, the relaxed lobby, bar, restaurant and banqueting suite offer a great space to make memories.

Ring of Kerry Hotel offers modern Irish fayre based around local produce. Guests can select from à la carte or table d’hôte menus, whilst John D’s bar offers live entertainment in the evening with all the buzz of a traditional Irish pub.

Check prices + see photos here

5. B&BS and guesthouses in Cahersiveen

Cahersiveen and the surrounding area is known for its huge range of bed and breakfast and guesthouse accommodation.

From down at home spots run by the same family for generations to new boutique offers with every modern comfort you could ask for, Cahersiveen is packed with more bed and breakfasts and guesthouses than you could ever ask for.

See what other accommodation is in the area

Cahersiveen pubs

Photo left via Mike Murt’s on Facebook. Photo right via Fertha Bar on Facebook

If you fancy a post-adventure pint or if you just want a quick meal before hitting the nest after a long day exploring, you’re in luck.

While Cahersiveen is small, it packs a punch pub wise. Below, you’ll find our favourite places to eat and drink. 

1. The Anchor Bar

A traditional Irish pub that is much-loved by both locals and tourists in Cahersiveen, The Anchor Bar offers both food and drink throughout the day. Ideal for people seeking a warm welcome and a quality pint of Guinness in a classic surrounding, the Anchor Bar offers a mixed menu with a focus on locally sourced seafood options.

2. Keating’s Corner House

Keating’s Corner House is a family run pub in Cahersiveen centre that has been welcoming customers since 1917. Situated in the heart of the town, Keating’s Corner House is a quality example of a classic, friendly and affordable family pub with a B&B upstairs. 

Offering a cosy open fire and a warm welcome, the drinks are delicious and regulars are known for engaging with new faces who come here in search of refreshment.

3. The Fertha

A pub with a  focus on both traditional and classic music, the Fertha offers traditional irish pub food throughout the week. With warm & comfy decor, there is a warm yet fresh atmosphere to this spot, where old and young mix seamlessly with a common thread of good vibes. Musically, you can expect to hear anything from Rock to Indie to traditional to country and jazz . This diversity brings music lovers from all backgrounds to The Fertha and so this is a must-visit spot.

4. Craineen’s

A traditional pub in the heart of Cahersiveen, Craineen’s offers a warm welcome, quality beers and other drinks as well as tasty food to soak it all up. Fish and chips is popular, as are other offerings based around the delicious local seafood.

Showing sports throughout the day, a visit to Craineen’s offers a taste of a proper, warm Irish pub where the locals are sure to provide a smile and a good conversation or two.

5. The Shebeen

Packed with character, The Shebeen is a popular Cahersiveen pub where locals and tourists alike can expect delicious pints, good food and a warm welcome.

Offering music at the weekends, sandwiches and a huge selection of beers and whiskies, this popular spot in Cahersiveen is known for its excellent atmosphere on practically any night of the week.

6. Mike Murt’s

Highly recommended, a visit to this traditional pub in Cahersiveen is sure to live long in the memory. Whether it’s the open fire, the quality of the beers or the excellent local music played on traditional instruments at weekends, Mike Murt’s offers a genuine experience for locals and tourists alike.

Cahersiveen restaurants

Photos via QC’s Seafood Restaurant on Facebook

There’s a number of excellent restaurants in Cahersiveen, from chilled cafes that knock up tasty dishes to pubs dishing out hearty grub.

Below, you’ll find a mix of our favourite places to eat in Cahersiveen (in no particular order!).

1. Eva’s Bar & Restaurant & B&B

Eva’s is unassuming spot that serves delicious yet homely cuisine, there are gluten free options at Eva’s Bar & Restaurant & B&B.

With classics on offer alongside some more modern options, there are a friendly and welcoming vibe throughout this spot which doubles as a B&B.

The specialty? Steak and chips, cooked as you like with all of the classic garnishes, you can’t go wrong!

2. The Oratory Pizza and Wine Bar 

One of the hottest tickets in town, this spot is known as one of the finest restaurants anywhere in Kerry!

Offering delicious homemade pizzas featuring imported cheeses and meats as well as tasty wines from across the world, The Oratory is a great spot when you fancy a change from the delicious yet quite samey local fayre.

3. QC’s Seafood Restaurant

A real touch of class, this delicious restaurant is part of a larger hotel offering high-end accommodation in Cahersiveen.

The seafood restaurant at Quinlan & Cooke offers a range of sustainable fresh, wild Irish fish, supplied by the family company, Quinlan’s Kerry Fish.

Delicious offerings include seafood platters, local crab, sizzling Dingle Bay prawns, pan seared baby squid and smoked salmon made to a renowned family recipe. 

Open seasonally, always be sure to call ahead before planning a meal at this classy Cahersiveen spot.

4. Camo’s 

A simple, down at home spot offering tasty local food served without pretence. Camo’s is ideal when you are in the town centre and seeking an affordable but satisfying lunch, such as a delicious sandwich and a bowl of freshly made soup.

Other popular options include steas, fish dishes and a limited but tasty range of vegetarian options. 

5. Frank’s Corner

This bar and restaurant is all about cultivating a relaxed atmosphere and offering seriously tasty classics done in the right way.

Whether it’s a hearty steak sandwich or an expertly fried fish and chips, the food at Franks Corner is perfect for washing down with a tasty pint of local beer. Warm, friendly and high-quality, this is one of the town’s top spots for pub grub.

FAQs about visiting Cahersiveen In Kerry

Since mentioning the town in a guide to Kerry that we published several years ago, we’ve had hundreds of emails asking various things about Cahersiveen in Kerry.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

James Connolly

James Connolly is a professional writer based in London. Having lived in cities across the world including Mumbai, Medellin and Barcelona, he uses his expertise to write articles showcasing the best of global travel.