Blennerville / Cathair Uí Mhóráin
Blennerville is really a suburb of Tralee being on the main Dingle Road. It is in a great position for walkers to get a good start for the Dingle Way and has the advantage of being close the full range of services that Tralee has to offer, whilst having pubs and shops of its own.
Blennerville's eye-catching 20 metre high windmill was restored in recent years and now lays claim to being the largest working windmill in Ireland. Dating back to 1800, it flourished until 1850. Park of the Visitor Centre includes a craft shop, cafe and a museum documenting some of the bleaker years in Irish history during the Great Famine and the ensuing mass emigration.
Another rejuvinated project is the Blennerville to Tralee Steam Engine that puffs away on an hourly basis during the summer months from May to October. The engine was returned to Ireland after been taken out of commission in 1953 and displayed in a museum in New York for many years. An original set of carraiges accompany the train and tell their own story through a set of photographs that are on display inside.
L.A. Cabs / Liam Duffy (087) 237 9787
Radio Cabs (066) 712 4541
DingleWay.net recommends the following accommodation:
The Station House
Tralee / Trá Lí
Tralee is the largest town on the Dingle Way. It has no shortage of pubs, restaurants, shops or accommodation and has plenty more besides. The Aqua-Dome has steam rooms, saunas and jacuzzis to help relax a walkers weary muscles. The Folk Theatre of Ireland has many unique productions running from Siamse Tíre or for a night with a bit more adrenalin there is the greyhound stadium just outside the centre of the town.
The start and end of the Dingle Way is at the foot of the Kerry County Museum. It provides a fascinating guide to the archaelogical riches and heritage of the county. Also on the theme of travel and exploration, there is an exhibition celebrating the bravery of local Kerryman Thomas Crean on his Antarctic adventures with Shackleton and Scott.
One of Kerry's largest events is the Rose of Tralee which takes place during the latter half of August every year. This is a beauty pageant with a bit more sophistication as judging is based on personality and outlook on life as well as good looks. Contestants of Irish extraction from all over the world take part in the competition and it is one of the yearly highlights on Irish television. Needless to say there is a huge demand for accommodation in the area during this period, so make sure to book well in advance if this coincides with your trip.
L.A. Cabs / Liam Duffy (087) 237 9787
Radio Cabs (066) 712 4541
DingleWay.net recommends the following accommodation:
Derreen Tighue House
Green Gables Bed and Breakfast
Finnegans Hostel
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