Sneem

The picturesque village of Sneem is situated midway between Kenmare and Waterville on the Northern side of Kenmare Bay on the Ring of Kerry. The village is immaculately kept with its traditional buildings, pubs, restaurants and craft shops, painted in an array of beautiful colours. It is a past winner of the “tidy towns of Ireland” competition. The Irish name for the town is “an tSnaidhm” which translates as “knot” and probably a reference to the winding Sneem river which flows through the village and into Kenmare bay. Sneem is set in idyllic walking country and also enjoys the mild currents of the Atlantic gulf streams which give rise to sub-tropical vegetation. It is the perfection location for rest, relaxation, gathering ones thoughts and resting the mind. No hussle and bussle allowed here.

Sneem holiday choice of the Rich and famous:

Sneem has played host to a number of dignitaries over the years who have chosen to holiday in this beautiful village. To mention but a few the late Princess Grace, of Monaco, (also a film star), holidayed with her family in Parknasilla, in 1961, while the late President Charles de Gaulle, of France, holidayed in Parknasilla, in the late 1960's.

Other visitors to the area over the years included President Chaim Herzog, of Israel, and the Dutch royal family. And, of course, ex-President of Ireland Cearhbaill O Dalaigh retired to Sneem, in the late 1970's, and is buried there.

Sneem Sculpture Park:

Accessible all year round, the Sneem sculpture park is located outdoors just behind the village. If your not into sculpture then you will walk right through the square and not even notice it, if your into sculpture then it’s a very nice bonus. Amongst the exhibits are “the peaceful Panda” donated by the Peoples republic of China, Arbor Chalybeia Immaculate (Israel) and the goddess Isis (Egypt).

Located in the square in Sneem are a sculpture of former President of Ireland, Cearbhall Ó Dalaigh who lived in Sneem for many year  and Steve “Crusher” Casey (World Champion wrestler  1938 to 1945).

The Garden of the Senses:

A serene walkway down the banks of the Sneem river is the location for the Garden of the senses. The gardens while small are awash with colours, fragrance and aromas. The garden also includes a bird island and a dedicated picnic and barbecue area.

Coral beach:

If corals are your things then one of only two coral beaches in Irelandcan be found near Gleesk pier in Sneem.