Gallies View Guidebook
Food Scene
Dooleys is one of my favourites in Waterville, Situated right on the water front this restaurant has incredible views. They offer an extensive and reasonably priced bar menu , one can choose to dine in their restaurant also. You will not be disappointed with the food here its extremely good. The service is very good and the scenery will make you want to return. Having recently added a Rooftop bar "Dooleys Deck " this a must visit on a sunny evening.
Please be advised that in current covid time booking is essential.
17 locals recommend
Dooley's Seafood & Steak House Waterfront Bar & Restaurant
Ring of KerryDooleys is one of my favourites in Waterville, Situated right on the water front this restaurant has incredible views. They offer an extensive and reasonably priced bar menu , one can choose to dine in their restaurant also. You will not be disappointed with the food here its extremely good. The service is very good and the scenery will make you want to return. Having recently added a Rooftop bar "Dooleys Deck " this a must visit on a sunny evening.
Please be advised that in current covid time booking is essential.
****** Dan and Fiona recently took over O Dwyers the Villa down the hill********* This cosy restaurant situated close to the top of the village is a firm favorite with locals and tourists a like. They offer a very extensive menu from breakfast right through to dinner. This restaurant has a well established history since it opened its doors in 1996 in Waterville, Co. Kerry.
The restaurant is owned and run by Fiona and Dan Fitzpatrick, both from Waterville. They both pride themselves on providing very hearty meals . Their specialist Dishes such as Fiona's Fiery Fruity Curry, Chicken Saute, Fiona's Fresh Fruit Pavlova and Auntie Bridies Brown Bread are just a few of their hearty offerings
7 locals recommend
An Corcan Restaurant
Main Street****** Dan and Fiona recently took over O Dwyers the Villa down the hill********* This cosy restaurant situated close to the top of the village is a firm favorite with locals and tourists a like. They offer a very extensive menu from breakfast right through to dinner. This restaurant has a well established history since it opened its doors in 1996 in Waterville, Co. Kerry.
The restaurant is owned and run by Fiona and Dan Fitzpatrick, both from Waterville. They both pride themselves on providing very hearty meals . Their specialist Dishes such as Fiona's Fiery Fruity Curry, Chicken Saute, Fiona's Fresh Fruit Pavlova and Auntie Bridies Brown Bread are just a few of their hearty offerings
A warm welcome, great food and friendly service are what makes The Lobster a must visit on the Ring of Kerry. Taken over recently by James and his wife this bar has gone from strength to strength. You will always be greeted by very friendly staff which makes this place extra special
10 locals recommend
The Lobster Bar & Restaurant
A warm welcome, great food and friendly service are what makes The Lobster a must visit on the Ring of Kerry. Taken over recently by James and his wife this bar has gone from strength to strength. You will always be greeted by very friendly staff which makes this place extra special
If you want a coffee with a view then this is a place to visit. Some may assume that this is for members only and it can appear quite private to a passer-by. However don't be fooled they welcome visitors with open arms . Weekends can be quite busy here with member s so midweek can be a better option
23 locals recommend
Waterville Golf Links
If you want a coffee with a view then this is a place to visit. Some may assume that this is for members only and it can appear quite private to a passer-by. However don't be fooled they welcome visitors with open arms . Weekends can be quite busy here with member s so midweek can be a better option
This is a lovely local family run cafe 10mins walk from the house. Great coffees and homemade baking with an extensive brunch menu
Beachcove Café
This is a lovely local family run cafe 10mins walk from the house. Great coffees and homemade baking with an extensive brunch menu
Great for a takeaway. Located right in the centre of the town. Multiple tasty dishes and all extremely fresh ingredients.
FiveSpice Restaurant
Great for a takeaway. Located right in the centre of the town. Multiple tasty dishes and all extremely fresh ingredients.
This pizza is soo tasty, along with its location. The views from here and the surrounding area are just incredible
Pompeii Pizza Kerry
This pizza is soo tasty, along with its location. The views from here and the surrounding area are just incredible
This takeaway is situated just outside the town close to the church. They have a delivery service which is very handy.
This is a very solid takeaway option. The pizzas are very good from here.The "Spicy One" is very good
Roadhouse Takeway Waterville
Ring of KerryThis takeaway is situated just outside the town close to the church. They have a delivery service which is very handy.
This is a very solid takeaway option. The pizzas are very good from here.The "Spicy One" is very good
Local Beaches
Advice on some of the more notable beaches to visit
One of our child hood favorite beaches , located about 10 minutes drive from the town of waterville , this is a must visit .
Its located snuggly in amongst the cliffs and one must walk through a little gate at the top and half way down to access the beach . This beach is very private and is lovely and sandy when the tide is out . The gates are purely to stop sheep from entering the little waterfall which you will see on your way down to the beach.
Please see link for directions ;
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Loher+Beach,+Loher,+Co.+Kerry/@51.7881367,-10.1799671,17z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x484f8fac085c09db:0x743a4742b601f996
Loher Beach
One of our child hood favorite beaches , located about 10 minutes drive from the town of waterville , this is a must visit .
Its located snuggly in amongst the cliffs and one must walk through a little gate at the top and half way down to access the beach . This beach is very private and is lovely and sandy when the tide is out . The gates are purely to stop sheep from entering the little waterfall which you will see on your way down to the beach.
Please see link for directions ;
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Loher+Beach,+Loher,+Co.+Kerry/@51.7881367,-10.1799671,17z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x484f8fac085c09db:0x743a4742b601f996
Located close to the world Famous Waterville Golf Links . This lovely sandy beach offers the perfect place for relaxing in the sun or walking for miles in the fresh air. This beach can still be walked at high tide. Stay up above the rocks and walk alongside the Waterville golf links 18th Hole
Beach
6 New Line RdLocated close to the world Famous Waterville Golf Links . This lovely sandy beach offers the perfect place for relaxing in the sun or walking for miles in the fresh air. This beach can still be walked at high tide. Stay up above the rocks and walk alongside the Waterville golf links 18th Hole
Located across from Waterville beach , if it is a long walk you are looking for with some magnificent scenery then this is the beach for you. One of my favourite beaches for a long long walk . It is situated just off the main road (R567) between Waterville & Ballinskelligs.
Reenroe Beach/ Inny
Located across from Waterville beach , if it is a long walk you are looking for with some magnificent scenery then this is the beach for you. One of my favourite beaches for a long long walk . It is situated just off the main road (R567) between Waterville & Ballinskelligs.
This is a very beautiful and extensive sandy beach in Derrynane Bay. It is quite close to Derrynane House. Follow directions for Derrynane House and you will then see signs for Derrynane Beach. The village of Caherdaniel is located two miles to the north west of the beach and is on the Ring of Kerry.
40 locals recommend
Derrynane Beach
This is a very beautiful and extensive sandy beach in Derrynane Bay. It is quite close to Derrynane House. Follow directions for Derrynane House and you will then see signs for Derrynane Beach. The village of Caherdaniel is located two miles to the north west of the beach and is on the Ring of Kerry.
Towns to visit close to Waterville
Portmagee is a little bit special. It's often described as a picturesque and sleepy little fishing village on the south western tip of the Iveragh peninsula, just off the Ring of Kerry. It's true but the description only touches on the obvious charms of our seaside home. Portmagee is within reach of a huge number of activities from golfing to diving.
Portmagee the departure hub for trips to the Skelligs Rocks, the home of preserved monastic settlements from the 6th century, but this is just the jewel in a crown of beautiful scenery, historical sites and fascinating places to visit.
26 locals recommend
Portmagee
Portmagee is a little bit special. It's often described as a picturesque and sleepy little fishing village on the south western tip of the Iveragh peninsula, just off the Ring of Kerry. It's true but the description only touches on the obvious charms of our seaside home. Portmagee is within reach of a huge number of activities from golfing to diving.
Portmagee the departure hub for trips to the Skelligs Rocks, the home of preserved monastic settlements from the 6th century, but this is just the jewel in a crown of beautiful scenery, historical sites and fascinating places to visit.
Located on the Skellig Coast in the Southern Peninsulas of the Wild Atlantic Way adjacent to the Ring of Kerry, Valentia Island is still one of Ireland's best kept secrets.
Our heritage as an island, the birthplace of global telecommunications, geological uniqueness stretching back 350 million years, a mix of traditional and planned built architecture, a place where you can embrace Irish culture of language music and sport - lets face it, we've got it all!
Valentia has the freshest of Skellig Coast seafood, locally sourced ingredients, home baking, children's menus, pub grub and of course, the Island's very own ice-cream!
Valentia Island is one of Ireland's most westerly points.
It lies off the Iveragh Peninsula in the southwest of County Kerry. A car ferry also departs from Reenard Point to Knightstown, the island's main settlement, from April to October. A second, smaller village named Chapeltown is located at roughly the midpoint of the island, 3 kilometres from the bridge. The permanent population of the island is 665. It is approximately 11 kilometres long by almost 3 kilometres wide.
78 locals recommend
Valentia Island
Located on the Skellig Coast in the Southern Peninsulas of the Wild Atlantic Way adjacent to the Ring of Kerry, Valentia Island is still one of Ireland's best kept secrets.
Our heritage as an island, the birthplace of global telecommunications, geological uniqueness stretching back 350 million years, a mix of traditional and planned built architecture, a place where you can embrace Irish culture of language music and sport - lets face it, we've got it all!
Valentia has the freshest of Skellig Coast seafood, locally sourced ingredients, home baking, children's menus, pub grub and of course, the Island's very own ice-cream!
Valentia Island is one of Ireland's most westerly points.
It lies off the Iveragh Peninsula in the southwest of County Kerry. A car ferry also departs from Reenard Point to Knightstown, the island's main settlement, from April to October. A second, smaller village named Chapeltown is located at roughly the midpoint of the island, 3 kilometres from the bridge. The permanent population of the island is 665. It is approximately 11 kilometres long by almost 3 kilometres wide.
rst of all, what may be confusing to first-time visitors is that Ballinskelligs isn’t a town or a village, it’s an area made up of small villages or ‘Townlands’, each marked low down to the ground on a stone so that the leprechauns can read them.
Also, if you follow the road signs, you won’t find the word Ballinskelligs, you will only see white signs in Irish to Baile ’n Sceilg, and these tell you how far it is to the centre of the area (which is the Post Office). So if you’re facing the beach, there’s a sign telling you that you’re still 2km away, which of course you’re not, even if you’re looking for the post office, which is only about 200m away.
Ballinskelligs (Irish – Baile ’n Sceilg, meaning homestead of the rocks) is the diamond in the magnificent Skellig Ring between Waterville and Valentia Island. The area boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in Ireland with its wild rugged coastline, scattered islands, vast mountains, high passes, and miles of golden beaches and turquoise water.
16 locals recommend
Ballinskelligs
rst of all, what may be confusing to first-time visitors is that Ballinskelligs isn’t a town or a village, it’s an area made up of small villages or ‘Townlands’, each marked low down to the ground on a stone so that the leprechauns can read them.
Also, if you follow the road signs, you won’t find the word Ballinskelligs, you will only see white signs in Irish to Baile ’n Sceilg, and these tell you how far it is to the centre of the area (which is the Post Office). So if you’re facing the beach, there’s a sign telling you that you’re still 2km away, which of course you’re not, even if you’re looking for the post office, which is only about 200m away.
Ballinskelligs (Irish – Baile ’n Sceilg, meaning homestead of the rocks) is the diamond in the magnificent Skellig Ring between Waterville and Valentia Island. The area boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in Ireland with its wild rugged coastline, scattered islands, vast mountains, high passes, and miles of golden beaches and turquoise water.
Neighbourhoods
The ring of Skellig is an extension of the famous Ring of Kerry and is a real hidden gem – a small, 20 mile (app 32km)
Route that will show you the gorgeous beauty of Ireland with none of the hassles. The Skellig Ring (or Ring of Skellig), detours west off the N70 just north of Waterville, and hooks back up to the Ring of Kerry just south of Caherciveen. If you want to go to Valentia Island, or take a boat to the Skellig Islands, you’ll be heading this way, anyway.
Just north of Waterville on the Ring of Kerry, there’s a small road marked Skellig Ring. Only cars are allowed on these small, country roads. That is reason enough to step off the Ring of Kerry. So. Revel in getting off the beaten path – driving through small villages such as Dungaegan, The Glen, up winding lanes up and down mountains, with the ever-present Atlantic ocean to the left – its waves crashing against rocks.
While passing through Ballinskelligs there are opportunities to stop for a bite to eat or drink at the various cafes, pubs and shops or visit the Blue Flag beach and the well known landmarks of McCarthy Tower (Ballinskelligs Castle) and the 12th Century Abbey. For those with more time or are staying in the area there is a local tour operator where you can experience the Skellig Ring or Ring of Kerry in a more leisurely fashion and let them do the driving. Tour details can be found here.
Heading towards Portmagee, you’ll find St. Finian’s Bay and enter The Glen. Besides the omnipresent surfers and beautiful beach, you’ll find the Skelligs Chocolate Company (artisanal hand made Irish chocolates). Note the gorgeous Skellig Islands, off to the left. Heading into Portmagee, you’ll see the harbour with its colorful boats and houses; Valentia Island just across the bridge; numerous boats to head to Greater Skellig Island (The Skelligs).
From Portmagee, head up to Caherciveen, and then either continue on the Ring of Kerry north east (toward Killarney), or back south toward Waterville. You’ve taken in the wild mountains, green landscape of the Iveragh Peninsula, the crashing Atlantic ocean, good food, drink and chocolate, and beautiful memories. — Remember Ballinskelligs
Skellig Ring
Skellig RingThe ring of Skellig is an extension of the famous Ring of Kerry and is a real hidden gem – a small, 20 mile (app 32km)
Route that will show you the gorgeous beauty of Ireland with none of the hassles. The Skellig Ring (or Ring of Skellig), detours west off the N70 just north of Waterville, and hooks back up to the Ring of Kerry just south of Caherciveen. If you want to go to Valentia Island, or take a boat to the Skellig Islands, you’ll be heading this way, anyway.
Just north of Waterville on the Ring of Kerry, there’s a small road marked Skellig Ring. Only cars are allowed on these small, country roads. That is reason enough to step off the Ring of Kerry. So. Revel in getting off the beaten path – driving through small villages such as Dungaegan, The Glen, up winding lanes up and down mountains, with the ever-present Atlantic ocean to the left – its waves crashing against rocks.
While passing through Ballinskelligs there are opportunities to stop for a bite to eat or drink at the various cafes, pubs and shops or visit the Blue Flag beach and the well known landmarks of McCarthy Tower (Ballinskelligs Castle) and the 12th Century Abbey. For those with more time or are staying in the area there is a local tour operator where you can experience the Skellig Ring or Ring of Kerry in a more leisurely fashion and let them do the driving. Tour details can be found here.
Heading towards Portmagee, you’ll find St. Finian’s Bay and enter The Glen. Besides the omnipresent surfers and beautiful beach, you’ll find the Skelligs Chocolate Company (artisanal hand made Irish chocolates). Note the gorgeous Skellig Islands, off to the left. Heading into Portmagee, you’ll see the harbour with its colorful boats and houses; Valentia Island just across the bridge; numerous boats to head to Greater Skellig Island (The Skelligs).
From Portmagee, head up to Caherciveen, and then either continue on the Ring of Kerry north east (toward Killarney), or back south toward Waterville. You’ve taken in the wild mountains, green landscape of the Iveragh Peninsula, the crashing Atlantic ocean, good food, drink and chocolate, and beautiful memories. — Remember Ballinskelligs
A week in Waterville
As good as the cliffs of Moher in my opinion
Kerry Cliffs are widely accepted as the most spectacular cliffs in Kerry.
The cliffs stand over 1000ft above the wild Atlantic and were formed in a desert environment 400 million years ago. Out to the west stand the amazing Skellig Rocks one of only three UNESCO world heritage sites in Ireland. Of course the Kerry Cliffs are the closest viewing point to the great rocks and also the famous Puffin Island. Allied with these facts as you stand at the summit of this mystical place and breath in the freshest of air, deep in to your lungs from the wild Atlantic and observe this natural wonder. You can relax and unwind and observe the majestic views from here which reach out for 30 miles of the surrounding areas. Many Twitchers come here to us to enjoy and observe the thriving colonies of cliff birds.
Our cliffs here in Portmagee provide you the opportunity to enjoy this spectacular location in a safe and natural environment. We are located just off the Skellig ring in Portmagee and the cliffs are just a 10 minute walk from our entrance.
Allow a minimum of 1 hour for a visit to the Kerry Cliffs, many visitors spend a few hours relaxing and bird watching for many hours and even return the next day or another day during their vacation. It is recommended to stay overnight in the local village of Portmagee (Irelands top tourist town 2012) to make the most of your visit; to enjoy the local culture and traditional Irish music. Also, we would highly recommend you take a cruise to Skellig Michael which we can arrange for you.
37 locals recommend
Kerry Cliffs Portmagee
Skellig RingAs good as the cliffs of Moher in my opinion
Kerry Cliffs are widely accepted as the most spectacular cliffs in Kerry.
The cliffs stand over 1000ft above the wild Atlantic and were formed in a desert environment 400 million years ago. Out to the west stand the amazing Skellig Rocks one of only three UNESCO world heritage sites in Ireland. Of course the Kerry Cliffs are the closest viewing point to the great rocks and also the famous Puffin Island. Allied with these facts as you stand at the summit of this mystical place and breath in the freshest of air, deep in to your lungs from the wild Atlantic and observe this natural wonder. You can relax and unwind and observe the majestic views from here which reach out for 30 miles of the surrounding areas. Many Twitchers come here to us to enjoy and observe the thriving colonies of cliff birds.
Our cliffs here in Portmagee provide you the opportunity to enjoy this spectacular location in a safe and natural environment. We are located just off the Skellig ring in Portmagee and the cliffs are just a 10 minute walk from our entrance.
Allow a minimum of 1 hour for a visit to the Kerry Cliffs, many visitors spend a few hours relaxing and bird watching for many hours and even return the next day or another day during their vacation. It is recommended to stay overnight in the local village of Portmagee (Irelands top tourist town 2012) to make the most of your visit; to enjoy the local culture and traditional Irish music. Also, we would highly recommend you take a cruise to Skellig Michael which we can arrange for you.
It isn't as extravagant as Charlies chocolate factory but it certainly has appeal . I hope ye don't have many rainy days during your stay in Waterville . But it is Ireland after all: This is a perfect day out when its raining . Great café and is cool to see a live chocolate factory in action .
62 locals recommend
Skelligs Chocolate and Cafe
It isn't as extravagant as Charlies chocolate factory but it certainly has appeal . I hope ye don't have many rainy days during your stay in Waterville . But it is Ireland after all: This is a perfect day out when its raining . Great café and is cool to see a live chocolate factory in action .
This place is off the beaten path! But if you are in the mood for a bit of walking, and want to see some wonderful views without the crowds, this is the place to go. Park your car at the Bray Head Car Park. Then continue on the dirt road and explore till your hearts content. You can wander off the path in relative safety. You will most likely encounter sheep and cows along your path, but no worries. Enjoy the view and solitude of this magical place!!
Bray Head loop walk
This place is off the beaten path! But if you are in the mood for a bit of walking, and want to see some wonderful views without the crowds, this is the place to go. Park your car at the Bray Head Car Park. Then continue on the dirt road and explore till your hearts content. You can wander off the path in relative safety. You will most likely encounter sheep and cows along your path, but no worries. Enjoy the view and solitude of this magical place!!
On a nice sunny day this place is hard to beat . Its like being abroad . The cove is famous for its turquoise waters, gulf stream, white sandy beach and the abundance of dolphins, seals and other sea life.
O’Carrolls is well known for its juicy steaks, Kerry lamb, fresh local seafood, all 100% Irish.
The menu offers a variety of foods for all tastes and many dishes are gluten free. The Cove offers a unique dining experience with comfortable seating inside. We also have seating outside on our extensive decking areas with panoramic views of Kenmare Bay. The drive too and from has insane views also
14 locals recommend
O'Carroll's Cove Beach Bar & Restaurant
Ring of KerryOn a nice sunny day this place is hard to beat . Its like being abroad . The cove is famous for its turquoise waters, gulf stream, white sandy beach and the abundance of dolphins, seals and other sea life.
O’Carrolls is well known for its juicy steaks, Kerry lamb, fresh local seafood, all 100% Irish.
The menu offers a variety of foods for all tastes and many dishes are gluten free. The Cove offers a unique dining experience with comfortable seating inside. We also have seating outside on our extensive decking areas with panoramic views of Kenmare Bay. The drive too and from has insane views also
E-Bikes can be rented from Caseys in Cahersiveen. This is a great way to explore multiple spots on a sunny day .
Advisable route : Cahersiveen to Valentia (via the sea crossing ferry) cycle onto portmagee after valentia where there are multiple places to eat. Continue minutes beyond Portmagee to the kerry cliffs for amazing views of the Skelligs. Return the bikes to caseys the same evening.
Cost: €40 for the day. Advance booking is essential
6 locals recommend
Casey Cycles & Gas Supplies
New StreetE-Bikes can be rented from Caseys in Cahersiveen. This is a great way to explore multiple spots on a sunny day .
Advisable route : Cahersiveen to Valentia (via the sea crossing ferry) cycle onto portmagee after valentia where there are multiple places to eat. Continue minutes beyond Portmagee to the kerry cliffs for amazing views of the Skelligs. Return the bikes to caseys the same evening.
Cost: €40 for the day. Advance booking is essential
Rental of Kayaks and Stand up paddle boards can be organised. On Facebook search LH Marine. All contact details are on their Facebook page. A sunrise or sunset SUP on Lough Currane( The lake you can see from the property:) will not disappoint.
6 locals recommend
Sea Synergy Marine Awareness Centre | Waterville Things to do
Rental of Kayaks and Stand up paddle boards can be organised. On Facebook search LH Marine. All contact details are on their Facebook page. A sunrise or sunset SUP on Lough Currane( The lake you can see from the property:) will not disappoint.