When in Ireland, an essential resort to stay in with the whole family is Sheen Falls Lodge. Set on the Wild Atlantic Way just outside the town of Kenmare, the resort evokes quintessential Irish hospitality and European luxury. Sheen Falls Lodge has everything you would desire for a five-star resort getaway in the picturesque countryside of southern Ireland.
Sheen Falls Lodge is part of the Relais & Chateaux hotel group. It is renowned for its 2AA Rosette restaurant that serves exquisite cuisine you have to taste to believe. Dining at Sheen Falls should be a top priority for every visit.
Set on the Wild Atlantic Way, outside the town of Kenmare, Co Kerry, Sheen Falls Lodge is an unforgettable base for your Irish holiday, providing the ultimate in hospitality.
Rooms
There is no other way to be greeted than with a bowl of fresh fruit, a selection of cheeses, nuts, dried fruit, and mulled wine as we were in our Suite Falls View room at the Lodge. Their rooms and suites are elegantly appointed and have the most peaceful views from the Sheen Waterfalls to Kenmare Bay. Guests will bask in opulence as plenty of light pours in through the tall, wide windows.
Spending your morning before breakfast gazing out at the river while reading a book, where you can even hear the soothing sounds of the falls. Most importantly, the rooms are very spacious, which is very rare in Europe.
Sheen Falls also has luxury thatched cottages that offer the ultimate comfort with a ‘home-from-home’ atmosphere.
Dining
The Falls Restaurant should be the heart and center of your Irish culinary experience whilst in Kenmare. Ideal for a romantic, candlelit dinner or for a family outing, the exquisite menu features local and seasonal ingredients. For instance, their salmon is caught off of the Kerry coastline, and their shellfish comes from Castletownbere, Co. Cork.
Under the helm of Executive Chef Cormac McCreary, taste a luxurious selection of dishes to start like Quail with sweetcorn, golden raisins, and jus. Another great standout selection, especially for a winter’s escape, is the Langoustine with carrot, ginger, and spiced bisque.
For your main course, the selection might be difficult one. Our particular favorites are the Pumpkin Tortellini with chestnuts and sprouts. Another is the Dexter Beef with beetroot, beef cheek, and bone marrow. Bone marrow is always a treat worth savoring, especially here.
Dessert is unique and alluring. Perfectly portioned and the only way to end the evening. Have the Apricot Soufflé with Nougatine Ice Cream. For those who love chocolate, the Chocolate Gâteau with blackberries is a perfectly satisfying portion.
Tea and coffee is served with petits fours that are displayed for you at your dinner table.
You will also find breakfast each morning at The Falls Restaurant. Breakfast includes a full cold spread with cheeses, pastries, breads, fresh fruit, and more. Savory and sweet main dishes are also available.
Afternoon Tea is an experience not to miss at the Lodge, which is served in the Sun Lounge from 2-5pm. Enjoy your tea out on the terrace during the warmer months.
Pool & Spa
An afternoon at the pool and jacuzzi is the ideal way to unwind after a day of falconry, horseback riding, and golf. Come down to the spa for a swim and a bit of relaxation. The pool is very family friendly. In addition to the heated indoor pool, there is a steam room and sauna.
An array of spa treatments are available from facials and massages to hairstyling and makeup applications. The spa uses products by Elemis.
Care for a morning or evening workout? The gym is perfect for boosting your energy and mood. A focus is on strength and resistance training, with machines including a rower.
Activities
Activities at Sheen Falls Lodge in Kenmare are endless. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or wish to spend the day shopping and being pampered, there is something for everyone.
Take a joy ride around the countryside of Kenmare with their complimentary bicycles. For those who love horses (Ireland is well known as a horse-lover’s paradise!), canter along river-side trails or explore the forested mountain paths that run through the estate.
Falconry should be top on your list as part of your unforgettable experience. Guests stroll through the estate while watching and handling these beautiful birds of prey. Other activities include tennis, archery, clay pigeon shooting, and fishing.
What’s Nearby
Nearby points of interest include:
- Macroom (home to Carrigadrohid Castle)
- Blarney Stone (just outside of Cork)
- Torc Waterfall, Killarney National Park
- Ring of Kerry/Wild Atlantic Way
Getting There
Sheen Falls Lodge in Kenmare is located four hours away from Dublin by car. Other nearby cities include Cork, which is an hour and a half away, and Killarney, less than an hour away. Your nearest airport is Cork, which offers flights to and from several European countries including Austria, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
Visit
Guests will relish their experience at this stunning countryside resort. The greatest challenge will be saying goodbye, but don’t fret! It wouldn’t be surprising if you were already booking your next visit even before you roll your bags out of the front lobby.