Sheen Falls Lodge Kenmare

Overlooking the picturesque Sheen Falls, this five-star Relais & Chateaux hotel is renowned for its 2AA Rosette restaurant and luxurious rooms, suites and villas. Set on the Wild Atlantic Way, outside the town of Kenmare, Co Kerry in the south west of Ireland, Sheen Falls Lodge is an unforgettable base for your Irish holiday, providing the ultimate in hospitality.

Cradled in the heart of Kenmare Bay, on the Wild Atlantic Way, allow us to be your springboard for discovering the untamed beauty of the south west of Ireland. Picturesque towns, unspoilt coastlines, dramatic mountains, scenic drives, country estates… Few places offer as much as here.

THE HISTORY
Arrive at Sheen Falls Lodge today and you’ll find a perfectly-formed lodge hugging the banks of the River Sheen. This picture-perfect setting wasn’t always home to such a grand building, and it’s believed the first structure appeared by the Sheen Falls in the 1600’s when the land was gifted to William Petty by Sir Oliver Cromwell.

Petty, a remarkable English physician, scientist and mathematician, oversaw Cromwell’s survey of Ireland, the world’s first detailed national mapping of a country, which facilitated the lands being confiscated from the Irish and transferred to Cromwell’s soldiers.

As payment, Petty received 3,500 arable acres in Kenmare and Tuosist parishes, to which he added another 2,000, purchased from soldiers, eager to return to England. Cromwell’s reconstruction of seventeenth-century Ireland transformed the country, marking the beginning of the influential Anglo-Irish estate system here.

In 1661, King Charles II knighted Petty and gave him the remainder of Kenmare and Tuosist parishes, along the south side of the Kenmare Estuary. Historians believe that Petty ended up with some 270,000 acres of southwest Kerry, including the beautiful Beara Peninsula and town of Kenmare, which he founded in 1670.

Upon his death in 1687, his only son was a minor, so the estate passed to a daughter, Anne. Her marriage into the local FitzMaurice family resulted in her husband becoming the first Earl of Kerry. He built Sheen Cottage at Sheen Falls, which was used by the family as a fishing and shooting base, and is the site of the present-day hotel.

In 1777, the iconic bridge with its stone arches was built over the falls next to the house, and remains unchanged to this day. During the nineteenth century, the house and its grounds changed hands several times, with a new fishing lodge built here in 1854.

It is believed that some of the original walls of Sheen Cottage were incorporated into this new building. In 1879, the Lansdowne family, descendants of Sir William Petty, resumed possession of the property, favouring it as a fishing and hunting lodge for the family.

During the Civil War of 1922, the lodge was commandeered by anti-Treaty forces and turned into a temporary barracks. Some 70 men are reported to have billeted here, arriving with their own bedding and departing two weeks later, leaving the house in immaculate condition.

In 1948, the property changed hands, and again in 1966, when the estate was purchased by an Englishman who hoped to set up a commercial fishery. Apparently, he had heard old stories about the famous runs of salmon, trout, herring, and pilchards at Sheen Falls.

Failing to make a success of the project, he sold it to an international corporation from which it was purchased by a Danish family, the Høyers, in 1988. The Høyer family dreamed up the Sheen Falls Lodge that we know today, creating an exceptional five-star hotel on the river bank, which opened in 1991.

Winning acclaim internationally, the estate was sold in 2013 to an international hotel group who invested in it significantly. In 2018, Sheen Falls Lodge came under new ownership, marking a new beginning and exciting next chapter for Ireland’s original five-star lodge.

LOCATION
In the heart of Kenmare Bay, on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, you’ll find Sheen Falls Lodge. Perfectly placed for exploring the untamed beauty of south west Ireland, we’re surrounded by glorious mountains and waterfalls, rivers and beaches. The picture-perfect heritage town of Kenmare is just a five-minute drive from Sheen Falls Lodge, and a charming introduction to Kerry life.

Nestling on the seashore at the foot of the Cork and Kerry mountains, it’s a lively market town with exceptional restaurants, cafés, bars, boutiques, independent shops, galleries, festivals and a heritage centre. From here, you can head west or east along the dramatic Wild Atlantic Way.

Scenic drives take you from our door through dazzling mountain passes, along craggy headlands and past pretty villages. Perched between the world famous Ring of Kerry – the Iveragh Peninsula – and lesser known Ring of Beara, you’ll find Ireland’s highest peaks, shimmering lakes, great country estates, deserted strands and remote islands all on our doorstep.

The possibilities are limitless in this vast outdoor playground, and our Guest Services Team can help arrange thrilling activities and adventures as gentle or challenging as your wish.

THE FALLS MASTER SUITE
The jewel in the crown of Sheen Falls Lodge, you may never want to leave the magical Falls Master Suite. At 1350 sq feet/125 sq m, it’s an indulgent five-star hideaway that’s high on luxury, style and charm.

Light-filled and lofty, throw open the windows to hear the River Sheen race by or to gaze at the ancient woodlands that wrap around this striking space. Care and craftsmanship has been poured into every element of the suite, from the design and architecture to the luxurious furnishings, fabrics and art.

An oculus looks down on the octagonal drawing room, set into the ceiling twenty feet above. Impressive and atmospheric, a wall of windows lets you watch the River Sheen flow down the waterfall, beneath the 18th-century stone bridge on its way to Kenmare Bay.

In winter, curl up by a log fire with a good book and vintage digestif from your private bar. In warmer weather, breakfast on your bedroom balcony overlooking the gardens and river, or enjoy lunch from the privacy of your living room balcony.

And with a six-seated dining table and extra bathroom, The Falls Suite is a fabulous place for you to entertain company. With your own parking space, side entrance and personal check-in service, you can enjoy a truly exclusive stay with us. If Sheen Falls Lodge has perfected the art of escapism, then The Falls Master Suite defines it.

LITTLE HAY COTTAGE
Enchanting. Dreamy. Exclusive. Little Hay is a thatched confection, where traditional architecture meets five-star luxury. Tucked away behind a private gate, down a meandering drive, you’ll feel as if you’ve landed in a fairy story.

Encircled by an acre of private garden, this pretty cottage enjoys the company of trees, birdsong and the lapping waters of Kenmare Bay. Peaceful and private, push open the front door and you’ll find a cosy haven full of creature comforts.

Filled with memorable details – a traditional range cooker, wooden beams, bright bay windows, an open fireplace, large dining table, marble en-suite bathrooms, balconies off both bedrooms and a spacious sun lounge that opens out onto your own terrace – this beautiful cottage is designed for a relaxing and luxurious holiday.

Perfect and peaceful, Little Hay is a luxury retreat for you and your family, or for two couples travelling together. For larger parties, book the nearby Garden Cottage, which can accommodate an additional four guests. Just a five-minute stroll to the main hotel, we invite you to enjoy our restaurant, spa, bar and and range of thrilling outdoor pursuits.

DINING
Dining at Sheen Falls Lodge is always a fun and flavoursome experience. No matter the time of day or occasion, you’ll find delicious menus to suit your mood and appetite, while reflecting the very landscape that surrounds us.

THE FALLS RESTAURANT
An elegant dining room. A tantalising menu. An Irish chef using local ingredients and French know-how. Dinner at The Falls Restaurant is a joy. Creative. Fun. Delicious. Special.

Featuring exceptional cooking by our kitchen brigade, delightful service under Ciarán Murphy, beautiful artwork by Christine Bowen and magical views by Mother Nature, we invite you to dress up, sit back and surrender to an evening of indulgence.

Our seasonal menus reflect the richness of Kerry’s bounty: estate-smoked salmon, mountain lamb, organic vegetables and micro herbs grown up the road. The team sources the finest from beyond the county too – farmhouse cheese, Atlantic seafood and Hereford beef, to create his gorgeous seasonal dishes.

You’ll find gentle piano music every evening, and exceptional views of the tumbling Falls outside. Join us for a romantic date, special celebration or family dinner, paired with wine from one of Ireland’s finest cellars. We’ve earned two AA Rosettes for our cooking, and our plan is to impress you too.

Whether you’re dressing up to celebrate, or dressing down to unwind, dinner at The Falls Restaurant will take your breath away. The dress code is smart casual, to match the restaurant’s informal air. Dinner is served from 6.30pm. Children are always welcome. À la carte and vegetarian menus are available. Advance reservations and dietary notifications are recommended.

THE SHEEN LOUNGE
Clubby, chic and oh so comfortable, the sunny Sheen Lounge is the ultimate room for relaxation. You’ll find deep-filed sofas, luxurious armchairs and a roaring log fire to curl up in front of.

Bring a newspaper. Pick out a book. Come and sip coffee with your favourite person in the world. Settle in, admire the Irish art and drink up the mesmerising riverside views. Order a steak. Or a drink. Or neither. This is the heart of the lodge. Kick back and make yourself at home! Bistro menu is served daily from 12.30pm to 9.30pm.

AFTERNOON TEA
Afternoon tea is a lodge tradition you’ll love. Relax in The Sheen Lounge, where we’ll serve you three tiers of delicious treats, accompanied by your drink of choice – freshly brewed Ronnefeldt loose-leaf tea, Warbler & Wren coffee, or an indulgent glass of Duval-Leroy Brut Reserve Champagne or prosecco.

Our afternoon tea is a fantastical feast of finger sandwiches, delicate pastries, scones and exquisite cakes, freshly created each day by our pastry team. In summer, the terrace overlooking the waterfalls is the place to sit. In winter, a cosy sofa by the open fire is a favourite. Arrive excited and let us work our five-star magic! Served daily from 2pm-5pm.

THE SHEEN BAR
Old-school authentic, The Sheen Bar is the cosiest corner of Sheen Falls Lodge. Pull up a stool, enjoy the gentle piano playing by night, sink into a leather armchair or choose a covetable terrace table in the summer months.

Our bar menu features 90 whiskeys, including 60 Irish single malts and blends, and an eclectic collection of Scotch. There’s a wonderful selection of Irish craft beers and ciders too, with wine, champagne and non-alcoholic choices.

Gin lovers will find over 20 to choose from, including 12 Irish styles. We recommend trying our signature gin and tonic first, made with our delicious house blend. Sheen Falls Lodge Gin is distilled at the nearby Beara Distillery and infused with verbena and pine botanicals gathered on our estate.

Maybe you’d prefer a glass of exceptional wine with a Caesar Salad for lunch? A warming Irish coffee after a mountain walk? A couple of classic cocktails to kick-start your evening? Or a favourite digestif to round off another great day? Intimate, welcoming and luxurious, The Sheen Bar is ready to fix your order. Come to relax, make new friends, reflect and raise a toast in style.

PRIVATE DINING
We love nothing more than an intimate celebration and have a hunch we throw the finest parties in Ireland. Working with our executive chef and restaurant manager Ciarán, we’ll devise a sensational seasonal menu for your special occasion.

The lodge offers a range of luxurious spaces for your perfect party. Choose from the intimacy of our Drawing Room, the elegance of the William Petty Suite or the thrill of a candlelit dinner in one of Ireland’s largest wine cellars.

Whether you’re planning a celebration dinner, a special lunch, family reunion or fun get-together with best friends, let us make it an occasion to remember. You invite the guests and leave the rest to us!

THE WINE CELLAR
Hidden beneath Sheen Falls Lodge, a secret stairs leads to our legendary cellar, one of the largest in Ireland. Celebrated the world over, our impressive wine collection houses more than 10,000 bottles, sourced from 18 different countries.

Request a tour of this vaulted cavern and select your own wine from more than 800 labels. We’d love to help you host a private dinner party, arrange an intimate table for two or experience a private whiskey or port tasting deep beneath the lodge. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this very special space.

PRIVATE TASTINGS
With one of the largest private cellars in Ireland, it’s hard to imagine a more atmospheric setting for a private wine or spirits tasting than the vaulted cavern at Sheen Falls Lodge.

WHISKEY TASTING
The word ‘whiskey’ (or whisky) comes from the Irish (or ‘Gaelic’) uisce beatha, meaning water of life. Let our resident expert introduce you to some Ireland’s finest, with a Whiskey Discovery Tasting from three top Irish distilleries. Enjoy a guided tasting of three classics, or splash out and try three mature Irish whiskeys, side-by-side.

WINE TASTING
Enjoy a guided tasting by our sommelier in the surrounds of our intimate wine cellar, which holds over 10,000 bottles. Enjoy six very special wines, including two sparkling wines, two reds and two whites.

GIN TASTING
Irish gin has been enjoying an exciting revolution, with craft distilleries all over Ireland turning out world class, award-winning gins featuring distinctively Irish botanicals. Let our resident expert introduce you to the world of Irish artisan gins with a guided tasting of three unique and delicious types.

EASANNA WELLNESS & SPA
Escapism. That’s what we’re here for. To relax you. Refresh you. Soothe you. Make you glow. We’ve taken our name from the Irish word for waterfall, and draw our inspiration from the pure Sheen River that flows past our windows.

An idyllic haven enveloped by nature, you’ll find solace and beauty all around the spa. Surrender to serenity and lose yourself to riverside strolls, gentle birdsong, fragrant flowers, flowing waters and uplifting views of the encircling mountains and bay.

Mother Nature and Easanna Wellness & Spa are the perfect allies in your quest for relaxation. Leave your cares at the door and let our outstanding therapists and treatments bring a new level of wellbeing to your day.

SPA EXPERIENCES
Easanna Wellness & Spa is Sheen Fall’s Lodge’s newly-imagined spa. Offering a holistic experience that channels Kerry’s wild serenity, we invite you to surrender to a brand new you.

With five restful treatment rooms, including a couple’s room and wet room, manicure and pedicure suite, a hair and makeup salon, and tranquil relaxation room, Easanna’s team of therapists and beauticians are here to enhance your lodge experience.

Favouring two elite skincare brands – Elemis and Irish organic range, VOYA – our luxurious treatments draw on natural ingredients and techniques to deliver enhanced feelings of wellbeing.

Book an Easanna experience, or come and enjoy our beautiful heated pool, sauna, steam room, indoor Jacuzzi and fitness suite any time. We’d be happy to book you a private session with our personal trainer or yoga teacher too.

WELLNESS & FITNESS
At Sheen Falls Lodge, the opportunity to feel good is all around. The beauty of the Beara Peninsula is legendary, and we are surrounded by uplifting scenery that will still the busiest of minds. Connect with nature and lift your mood while enjoying a leisurely walk, run or cycle around the estate. (We’ve bikes you can borrow too!)

Take a woodland stroll along the Queen’s Walk, listening out for birdsong or walk along the estuary looking for herons, seals, wildfowl, colourful kingfisher and clippers. Enjoy the sunset over Kenmare Bay and become entranced with the serene soundtrack of the Sheen Falls babbling by.

Come and do a few laps in our heated swimming pool, or enjoy a relaxation session in our modern sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi. Book a relaxing treatment in our Easanna Spa.

We offer morning yoga on selected weekends and have a fitness suite with top class equipment and weights. Why not let us arrange a private yoga class or one-to-one personal training session with Body by Finn, who caters for all ages and fitness levels?

WEDDINGS
A 17th century fishing lodge transformed into a world class hotel. A 300-acre country estate overlooking Kenmare Bay. A team of professionals celebrated for our excellence. This is Sheen Falls Lodge and we’re ready to make your wedding unforgettable.

Encircled by the Caha Mountains, with sweeping views over Kenmare Bay, it’s hard to imagine a more perfect setting for your celebrations. Hugging the curves of the Sheen River, this magnificent five-star lodge will impress you and your guests from first glimpse to final farewell.

Step inside Sheen Falls Lodge and the wonder continues. Private and exclusive, we’ll create a bespoke wedding experience that’s as laid-back or lavish as you wish. From an intimate affair to a black tie banquet, we’ll ensure your big day is more perfect than you could ever imagine. Tell us your dreams, choose your date and let our team work its magic.

MEETINGS & EVENTS
An impressive destination for any occasion, Sheen Falls Lodge sets the bar in event excellence. Ireland’s original luxury lodge, we’re pros at hosting exceptional occasions.

A conference for 120? A family reunion? An executive retreat? A special celebration? A reward for your staff? A team-building weekend? Opulent or discreet, we’re ready to elevate your event with our five-star panache. Business or pleasure, ballroom or boardroom, our setting, staff and standards put your event in the safest of hands.

Delightfully secluded yet easily accessible, we offer your group the opportunity to connect, relax, focus and enjoy the finest accommodation and hospitality. With a selection of beautiful spaces to inspire, let us put the Sheen Falls stamp of five-star excellence on your special event.

EXCLUSIVE USE
We’re experts at arranging bespoke events and love nothing more than helping a client plan their private takeover of our five-star lodge. Imagine the excitement of your guests or delegates when they learn you’ve booked out one of Ireland’s most spectacular country estates.

With 72 luxurious bedrooms and suites, as well as our private cottages and villas, we’re the perfect size for hosting intimate and exceptional events with exceptional service and cuisine.

Our breathtaking 300-acre estate offers countless outdoor activities, from classic country pursuits to tailormade team-building challenges. Talk to us about your expectations and let us plan a show-stopping event that your guests will remember forever.

INCENTIVES
An incentive trip to Sheen Falls Lodge is the ultimate reward for your dedicated staff. Recognise your team’s achievements with the invitation of a lifetime to one of Ireland’s finest five-star hotels.

Arrange exclusive use of the property and allow us to create a fun-filled itinerary that’s packed with new experiences. Wrapped around Kenmare Bay, our 300-acre estate offers so many fun and thrilling activities.

With luxury accommodation, sensational views of the bay and mountains, a beautiful spa, outstanding dining and exceptional Irish hospitality, we’d be delighted to help you plan the best incentive trip your company has ever thrown.

ACTIVITIES
With 300 acres to play in and a thrilling range of country pursuits, we can create the perfect schedule for your special event. From sensory thrills to new skills and adrenaline spills, let us organise an event like no other.

The possibilities are limitless in this vast Kerry playground, and our team can help arrange activities and adventures as gentle, challenging or original as you wish. A successful corporate event depends on meticulous planning, and our experienced team can’t wait to exceed your expectations.

FAMILY
Bring the whole family to Sheen Falls Lodge and let us show you what makes a really memorable family holiday! We’re the perfect hideaway, tucked into a magical estate that’s the ultimate outdoor playground. Chilled out and relaxed, you and your children will feel the warmest of welcomes from the moment you arrive.

Bicycles, boating, board games or bird watching, whatever you love to do together, we can make it happen. Our Guest Services Team can help plan the perfect family adventure, whether that’s horse riding or hiking, kayaking or chocolate making!

We’ve a wide selection of luxury rooms to accommodate all the family, from infants to young adults, and look forward to helping you choose the perfect space for a fun and fabulous Sheen Falls Lodge experience.

IRISH ART & ARTISANS
At Sheen Falls Lodge we’ve a long-standing tradition of collaborations with local crafts people. You’ll find the lodge filled with beautiful bespoke pieces, hanging on our walls, and gracing our public areas, bedrooms and suites. We hope you’ll enjoy finding all these wonderful Irish pieces that that have crafted with love in Kerry.

You’ll meet Christine Bowen’s art as soon as you check-in. Her mural adorns our reception wall as well as a fabulous botanical mural in The Falls restaurant. Drawing on Kenmare for inspiration, you’ll find this local artist painting’s hanging throughout the hotel. Learn more about Christine here christinebowenart.com

FURNITURE
Master cabinetmaker Joop Duyn and his son, Adrian have worked closely with Sheen Falls Lodge since we first opened our doors. Their bespoke work is visible all around the lodge – from the gorgeous mahogany bookcase in our recently refurbished study to the presentation cases for our house smoked salmon – but it’s our mysterious petit-four chocolate box in The Falls Restaurant that seems most beloved of all by our guests!

CHOCOLATE
With a master chocolatier working close by, it made sense to share his delectable treats with our guests. The beautiful welcome chocolates you’ll find in your rooms are handcrafted by Frenchman, Benoit Lorge, who calls Kenmare home.

POTTERY
The wonderful Muckross Pottery in Killarney National Park created all the pretty coffee cups in our bedrooms, as well as the rustic breakfast buffet crockery. These specially commissioned pieces are blue, inspired by the water surrounding the lodge.

GIN
Collaborating with the local Beara Distillery, we’re proud to offer guests our signature Sheen Falls Lodge gin. Crafted with distinctive botanicals from the estate, it’s a firm favourite with our guests.

MENU FOLDERS
All of our beautiful leather menu folders and bedroom directories have been fashioned by hand at Muckross Binding, using traditional methods practised at the bindery in Killarney National Park.

KENMARE
A pretty little town, Kenmare is known as ‘The Jewel on the Ring of Kerry’ and is just a five-minute drive from Sheen Falls Lodge. Compact and picture-perfect, the heritage town was founded in 1670 on the Kenmare River estuary at the foot of the Cork and Kerry mountains.

The town’s distinctive triangular layout comprises rows of handsome buildings dating from the 19th century, when it was part of the huge Lansdowne estate.

For a town this size, Kenmare has an impressive collection of top class restaurants, cafés and pubs alongside lovely independent boutiques, craft shops, galleries, festivals and a heritage centre. There’s a weekly market, gorgeous chocolatier and a lively buzz year round.

KERRY
With more mountains than anywhere in Ireland, miles of rugged coastline, dazzling lakes, sandy beaches, glacial valleys, historic houses, pretty towns and sensational views, Kerry is a thrill for the weary traveller.

Dramatically beautiful, arrestingly wild and famously unspoilt, there’s a tranquil corner of Kerry here for everyone who seeks it out. Base yourself at Sheen Falls Lodge and you’ll find a wonderland to explore. At the south-eastern end of the Iveragh Peninsula, we’re nestled at the intersection between two world-class tourist routes – the Ring of Kerry and the Ring of Beara.

A perfect location from which to tour both rings, we’re at the foot of the Caha Mountains, the banks of the River Sheen, the mouth of Kenmare Bay and the base of the Beara Peninsula. You want to be impressed? We’ve got you covered.

Come with high expectations and you won’t be disappointed. Kerry is an outdoor playground with thrills around every bend and valley, every inlet and lake, every village and island. Highlights, all accessible from Sheen Falls Lodge, include:

THE RING OF KERRY
One of the world’s great scenic drives and highlight of the Wild Atlantic Way, this scenic route runs around the edge of the rocky Iveragh peninsula. Expect stunning mountain and coastal views around every turn.

THE RING OF BEARA
A beautiful driving route, along the Beara Peninsula on the Wild Atlantic Way, this quieter route rewards visitors with wild scenery, rugged peaks and unspoilt seascapes. Expect deep lakes, atmospheric woods, pretty inlets and magical gardens on a hidden island.

GLENINCHAQUIN PARK
A hidden gem, and easy drive from the lodge, this private park offers visitors breath-taking landscapes and wild scenery. Mountain paths with carved steps, a famine cottage, rock passages, lakes and waterfalls are dazzling, while the view from the top of the waterfall will leave you speechless.

THE GAP OF DUNLOE
A narrow mountain pass running between the highest mountains in Ireland, this iconic beauty spot is surrounded by rugged mountain scenery, dramatic cliffs and deep blue lakes. Come to walk, hike, travel by pony and trap (traditional cart), or indulge in some high octane rock climbing.

KILLARNEY NATIONAL PARK
10,000 hectares of wilderness, encompassing the three Lakes of Killarney and the mountains and woods which surround them. The park is wonderful for day trips, hiking, strolling and picnics.

MUCKROSS HOUSE
A handsome historic house and country estate on the shores of Muckross Lake within the dramatic surroundings of Killarney National Park. The house and grounds are just a few kilometres from Killarney town in County Kerry.

ROSS CASTLE
A 15th century tower house located in Killarney, this fully restored and furnished medieval stronghold was once home to a powerful Irish chieftain.

DERRYNANE HOUSE
The ancestral home to Daniel O’Connell, this imposing building is now a public museum commemorating one of Ireland’s most important and influential pre-independence politicians.

DERRYNANE BEACH
A sweeping curve of bay, close to Derrynane House, Derrynane Beach is a sheltered and beautiful sandy beach with a natural harbour. It’s safe for swimming and popular with locals and day trippers.

THE DINGLE PENINSULA
With rugged mountains, cliffs, sweeping valleys and deep lakes, Dingle Peninsula is a visual treat. Stop along the way to enjoy long, sandy beaches, patchwork fields with ancient stone walls and historic sites. Stop off in Dingle town, to enjoy excellent seafood and perhaps a boat trip to meet Fungi, the friendly wild bottlenose dolphin, who greets boats daily.

GARNISH ISLAND
Tucked into Glengarriff Harbour, this magnificent island garden is a leafy and historic haven planted with trees and shrubs from all around the world.

DERREEN GARDEN
Full of rare and exotic plants, woods and tiny houses, garden enthusiasts will love this harbourside 19th-century garden. Over 60-acres on the Beara Peninsula, it’s a haven for wildlife, with magical views of the sea and Caha Mountains.

DAY TRIPS
Our Guest Service Team are here to help you make the most of your time at Sheen Falls Lodge. Alongside a huge selection of estate activities, we’d be delighted to arrange any number of off-site activities for you during your five-star stay. Some popular activities include:

KENMARE HERITAGE WALK
A fun and engaging guided walk exploring the local town of Kenmare and its fascinating history, dating back to the late 1670s.

BOAT TRIPS
Enjoy a wildlife cruise through Kenmare Bay, looking out for seals, eagles and other native species. Exploring along the beautiful Iveragh and Beara Peninsulas, this is a wonderful way to experience the south west from the water. Especially popular with families.

SHEEO DOG 
Come and meet a skilled border collie on a real working farm where you’ll watch these clever dogs herding a flock of sheep on the Iveragh Peninsula. In spring, there’s new baby lambs on site, and in summer hands-on sheep shearing demonstrations too.

PRIVATE DAY TRIPS
Head off on a private escorted trip with your own drive guide to explore the magnificent countryside in south-west Kerry. Alongside favourite trips to the Beara Peninsula, the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula why not let your local drive guide escort you off the beaten track to discover the hidden Kerry gems close to Sheen Falls Lodge.

CHOCOLATE MAKING
Enjoy a fun hands-on chocolate making experience with one of Ireland’s most talented chocolatiers. Perfect for family – children love this activity! – you’ll learn about the origins of chocolate before dipping, moulding and making.

WALKING & CYCLING
Kerry is perfect outdoors country, attracting hikers and bikers from all over the world. We’ll team you up with a local walking or cycling guide, and all necessary equipment, so that you can explore the peaks, lakes, beaches and tracks at your own pace.

FISHING
Some say fishing in Ireland is better than anywhere else. Nowhere is this truer than at Sheen Falls Lodge, where a fishing lodge has stood on these grounds for hundreds of years.

Given our centuries-old connection to these lands, you won’t be surprised to learn that we hold exclusive fishing rights for the River Sheen, the tumbling river and waterfalls that lend their name to our five-star hotel.

Of course, Kerry is rich with abundant waterways, with the sparkling lakes of Gleninchaquin, Barfinnihy and Cloonee, all a short drive away. You’ll find plenty of excellent opportunities to catch trout and salmon here, as well as countless sheltered bays and inlets for beach fishing.

Brendan, our resident ghillie, is on hand to share his years of expertise and local knowledge. A dab hand with a rod, he can arrange guiding, equipment and licenses.

And, should you be so lucky to land a big one, we invite you to bring it back to the lodge, where our Executive Chef, will happily cook it up for your dinner. Better still, let him smoke it for you in the lodge’s very own smokehouse!

Fish or no fish in hand, you’ll be able to enjoy our very own freshly caught wild Atlantic salmon, cooked or house-smoked to perfection and served in our restaurants.

THE RIVER SHEEN
Rising in Kerry’s Caha Mountains and flowing in a northerly direction for 15 miles, the energetic River Sheen tumbles dramatically past the lodge before entering the sea at Kenmare Bay.

Fishing on the entire river is controlled by the Sheen Falls Estate, with all legal methods allowed. It’s a wonderful spot to learn or master fly fishing or to take your children with their first rods. Shrimp is particularly effective in low water and spinning/worming in a spate, while fly fishing is productive in medium water. As a spate system, the Sheen is subject to violent floods, so please do take care.

SALMON FISHING
Salmon fishing is mostly concentrated on the first five to six miles of the Sheen River, up to Dromagorteen Bridge (just north of Bonane on the N71). However, the first four miles up to Dromanassig are considered the best. The finest pools are Sheen Pool, Flat Pool, Sand Pool and Weir Pool, just above the Sheen Falls.

Other notable pools run up to Releagh Bridge (N71), but do bear in mind that the water runs very quickly off the upper river. The Coomeelan River, which joins the Sheen from the East above Dromogarteen Bridge, also has a few pools worth fishing.

THE FISHING SEASONS
A decent run of spring fish often starts the season, but it can be May before it’s worth wetting a line. The impressive grilse run – Atlantic salmon returning to the river after just one season – starts at the end of May and continues through until the end of August, with June and July being peak season.

Sea trout can also run from May, but like many other rivers, their numbers have been in steady decline. Brown trout fishing can be good too, with resident fish weighing up to 3lb.

LAKE FISHING
Gleninchaquin Lake is set in a stunning mountainside location, not too far from Kenmare. It’s jaw-droppingly beautiful here and delightfully secluded. You can fish for brown trout in the two lakes without additional charge. Surrounded by high, rugged cliffs, Cummeenadillure Lough is a tranquil beauty spot popular with walkers and hikers.

Barfinnihy Lake is located 6 miles from Kenmare with breath-taking views of Molls Gap. Stocked monthly by the regional fisheries board, you’ll find rainbow trout in abundance with spinning and fly fishing the most popular methods.

Cloonee Lake, part of the Cloonee System, is 8 miles south of Kenmare and contains large stocks of brown trout and sea trout from late July onwards. This picturesque fishing spot attracts international anglers and there are boats for hire in the area.

HORSE RIDING
Saddle up at Sheen Falls Lodge and discover why horses are the perfect way to explore this tranquil corner of Kerry. We’ll take you cantering through beautiful country lanes, along leafy riverside trails and through forested mountain paths.

A fun and relaxing way to spend a morning or afternoon, our horses and guides can cater to all abilities, from equestrian enthusiasts to first-timers. We think it’s the most magical way to explore the natural beauty of our estate.

FALCONRY & HAWK WALKS
Fancy making friends with a majestic hawk? Nothing beats a falconry session at Sheen Falls Lodge, where you’ll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with these impressive birds of prey while strolling through our beautiful estate.

An age-old country pursuit, a guided Hawk Walk takes place under instruction from an experienced falconer. Witness the unique relationship the hawks have with their falconer, while learning how to handle and fly these magnificent birds for yourself.

Taking place in the great outdoors, a Hawk Walk is one of our guests’ favourite pursuits and an unmissable part of your five-star lodge experience.

CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING 
The quintessential country pursuit, clay pigeon shooting is the perfect way to sharpen your reaction time, test your accuracy and indulge in some good, old-fashioned competition.

The lodge’s leafy estate is the perfect setting for this skilled challenge, where our instructor will introduce you to the many aspects of this fun sport, from safety and etiquette to equipment and technique. After your shoot, we’ll finish up with a piping hot Irish coffee al fresco!

ARCHERY
Channel your inner Robin Hood, with the help of our archery instructors, Jamie and Colin. Enjoyed by royalty for centuries, this ancient country sport is a fun activity the whole family can enjoy together, from age 7 upwards. Practicing the art of accuracy, control, concentration and hand-eye coordination, it’s guaranteed to bring out the competitive edge in everyone. Bow and arrow at the ready!

KAYAKING & PADDLEBOARDING
A day’s kayaking on the water is a magical way to experience The Wild Atlantic Way and the majestic scenery that wraps around Sheen Falls Lodge. Our guided tours offer a fresh perspective on Kenmare Bay, taking you to secret and silent beauty spots only accessible by water.

Safe, stable and comfortable, our kayaks are led by expert guides who will take you at a pace that you’re comfortable with, gliding along the bay and amongst the reeds of the Roughty River. Keep your eyes peeled for playful seals and beautiful birds!

Come by day or book an unforgettable night trip. Our sunset excursions paddle through the sunset into a starlit world of sparkling bioluminescence dancing beneath the water. Special family tours can be arranged with expert guides, information and additional fun and games. Children aged 8 and upwards can join in, with a child and adult per kayak.

HORSE & CARRIAGE TRIPS
A horse and carriage ride is the perfect way to explore the Sheen Falls Lodge estate. Climb aboard and take a trip back in time, as you settle in to experience the countryside at a gentle and traditional pace. Channelling the days of old, this romantic horse-drawn experience is especially popular with our younger guests.

PHOTOGRAPHY EXCURSIONS
Kerry is the ultimate gift to the photographer, with Sheen Falls Lodge surrounded by vast and astonishing scenery. Sign up for a photography excursion with our seasoned photographer and learn how to get the very best from the majestic and dramatic countryside beyond the estate.

A full or half day of instruction and fun, you’ll see the county from a fresh – and lens-perfect – perspective while filling your memory card with wonderful shots. Designed for photographers of all levels, you’ll be making magical memories that you can bring back home and frame.

GOLF
South west Ireland is a golfer’s paradise, and at Sheen Falls Lodge we are surrounded by countless outstanding courses. Parkland, lakeside, links… Kerry’s countryside is dotted with beautiful scenic courses that rank as some of Europe’s finest.

Many skirt dazzling lakes or are kissed by the salt spray of the crashing ocean. Others are sheltered by mountain peaks and leafy woodland. If you’ve come for links golf, you will be spoilt for choice around here.

Closest to our five-star hotel are the 18-hole Kenmare Golf Club and The Ring of Kerry Golf & Country Club. Designed by Ireland’s foremost designer, Eddie Hackett, both are courses of particular exception. Whatever your ability or group requirements, we’d love to help organise your perfect golf break.

PICNICS
Planning a day trip to one of our local beauty spots? A long walk through the estate? Or simply hopping in your car to see where the road takes you? Let us pack you a gourmet picnic, to enjoy wherever you feel like eating.

Featuring a selection of freshly made delights from the lodge, including savoury and sweet treats and delicious Irish ingredients, we’ll create a five-star feast for your outing. Our Guest Service team would be delighted to arrange your picnic. 24-hours notice is required. All dietary requirements can be catered for.

Rooms: 66

Price: from 261 EUR per night

Source: www.sheenfallslodge.ie