Bonane Heritage Park, County Kerry Travel Guide

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Discover 5,000 years of Irish history amidst stunning scenery at Bonane Heritage Park, where the Ring of Kerry meets the Ring of Beara.

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Bonane Heritage Park

Explore 5,000 years of Irish history at Bonane Heritage Park, nestled in the scenic Sheen River valley. Discover ancient archaeological sites, including a stone circle, ring fort, and famine ruins, all within a beautiful natural setting. A perfect blend of history and stunning landscapes.

A brief summary to Bonane Heritage Park

Kenmare, Dromagorteen, Co. Kerry, IE
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bonane Heritage Park.

Wear comfortable shoes for the 2km gravel path through the park.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Sheen River valley and surrounding mountains.
Allow at least 2 hours to fully explore the park and enjoy the audio tour.
Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as the park is exposed to the elements.
Visit the Fairy Walk, a delightful experience for all ages, and discover enchanting fairy houses and doors.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Visit Innisfallen Island

Explore Bonane Heritage Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Bonane Heritage Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Bonane Heritage Park is located just off the N71 main road between Kenmare and Glengarriff. From Kenmare, head west on the N71 for approximately 10km. The park entrance will be on your right, clearly signposted. Parking is available at the entrance. Note that vehicles are not allowed beyond the entrance due to health and safety reasons. Parking is free.
Public Transport

The Local Link Kerry Route R51a operates a bus service from Kenmare to Bonane. The bus departs from Kenmare and stops at Bonane. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes and costs €2. Please note that the bus service operates once a week on Wednesdays. Check the Local Link Kerry website for the most up-to-date timetable.
Taxi

Taxis are available in Kenmare. A taxi from Kenmare to Bonane Heritage Park will cost approximately €20-€25 and take about 8 minutes. Taxi fares may vary depending on the time of day and the taxi company.

Discover more about Bonane Heritage Park

Bonane Heritage Park offers a captivating journey through time, showcasing 5,000 years of Irish history within a remarkably scenic landscape. Located in the heart of the Sheen River valley, near Kenmare in County Kerry, the park is surrounded by the majestic Sheehy and Caha Mountains. This unique heritage site features a collection of well-preserved archaeological monuments, dating from the Bronze Age to the post-medieval period.The park's significance was discovered in 1999 by a local farmer, Danny O'Connor, who identified solar and lunar alignments among the ancient sites. Visitors can explore a stone circle, a fulacht fiadh (ancient cooking site), a standing stone, and a bullaun stone. The remains of a ring fort and a famine-era ruin provide further glimpses into Ireland's rich past.A 2km gravel path meanders through the park, allowing visitors to easily access each historical landmark while immersing themselves in the area's natural beauty. The diverse flora and fauna add to the park's charm, with opportunities to spot native wildlife amidst the oak, beech, ash, and birch trees. For a truly immersive experience, an audio tour is available, offering insights into the history and cultural significance of each site.Bonane Heritage Park is more than just a historical site; it's a place where visitors can connect with nature, learn about ancient traditions, and appreciate the enduring legacy of Ireland's past. The park is owned and controlled by the local community.