Where does one even begin with their thoughts on Kenmare? It is arguably the most beautiful village in a country of indescribable beauty. My husband and I love staying at Finnehy Court and being able to step out our front door and within thirty seconds be at a victuallers, or within five minutes be at the post office with its internet connection, the church, supermarket, clothing store, or gift shop. We’ve travelled across the pond 10 times because we love the hospitality that is extended to us by all we meet in Ireland, and the people in Kenmare seem to be especially welcoming. It’s as easy to become friends with shopkeepers in town as with the farmers we’ve met on our many hikes around the area.

The number of fine restaurants and hearty Irish pubs provide as many dining experiences as we will ever need. I only wish I had kept track of the over 100 different kinds of chowder we’ve had in all our trips!

Kenmare is awake each morning with the children grabbing a scone or sweet before they head off to school. To see them back in the village for lunch and after school is delightful. They have always been well-mannered and friendly, and are as much a part of our fond memories as the older ladies and gents we’ve met. The market day crowds, the sheep auctions, the three horses that were quietly walking in front of a gentleman without a rein in his hand are scenes we try to describe to our friends back home, but we silently know they can’t begin to feel what we’ve experienced.

We’ve travelled around the entire country many times; we’ve seen all the famous sights, and those less well-known but every bit as spectacular, and now we wish only to return to Kenmare. Thank you for all you’ve given us.