If we’re being honest, Kerry didn’t used to be the first place that came to mind when planning a conference or corporate retreat. However, this is definitely no longer the case! Following a familiarisation trip last September, Kerry has now moved to the top of our list.
We were blown away by the Irish hospitality we experienced during our time there. The standard of venues available leaves you spoilt for choice – and let’s not get started on the food! Probably the most food consumed over 48 hours and all of it excellent. From the afternoon-tea style breakfast at Muckcross Park Hotel & Spa to the sharing boards at Killarney Brewing and Distilling Company and 3-course menu at The Peregrine Restaurant, you will never go hungry!
What stood out for us the most were all of the small touches, which re-confirms our belief that often the smallest things have the biggest impact. As we got off the minibus and arrived at the Aghadoe Heights hotel, we were greeted with Irish coffees to have whilst we checked in and retrieved our luggage. Then once in our bedrooms, we found a lovely welcome gift waiting for us – a jar of homemade honey from the on-site bees.
Our trip was particularly memorable not only due to the delicious food but the way we traveled throughout the weekend. After breakfast, we were picked up by horse drawn carriages which took us to the Old Schoolhouse, followed by a walk to Quills Farmhouse where we enjoyed ice cream served from a vintage trailer. We then visited Fenit Island, a very special place where we explored on bikes before travelling by speed boat around the island, with dolphins swimming along beside us.
What was noticeable about Fenit Island beside the hospitality, scenery and wildlife, was how important sustainability was to the community. Our group got involved with a volunteering initiative whilst there, cleaning the beaches. This didn’t take long though, since the beach was almost spotless before we arrived! Other sustainability initiatives in Kerry include their keep-cup pledge where you are given a coffee cup on arrival to either keep or return at the end of your trip to avoid the use of single-use coffee cups. Kerry is ranked 13 on the Global Destination Sustainability Index so they are definitely a destination making a difference!
We were surprised and delighted at every turn. In Ireland there are a plethora of family-run, traditional pubs and restaurants. A highlight of the trip had to be our walking tour stopping off at various establishments with the opportunity to sample food and drink and meet the families behind the businesses. We were particularly surprised when we came across one pub hidden behind a sweet shop! Once you walk through the shop you’re greeted by dozens of interlinking rooms filled with happy customers – the perfect place to end your night.
Whether you envisage an action-packed, adrenaline-fueled itinerary or a leisurely experience being wined and dined, with luxury spa visit – Kerry can certainly deliver. The hotels and venues are varied making it a great destination whether you’re a group of 10 or 1000. There are even meeting spaces which can accommodate multiple vehicles, making it a great destination for the automotive industry.
This is just a taste of what we experienced in County Kerry. If you’re looking for a destination that guests may not have experienced which will exceed expectations, don’t overlook Ireland. We love long-haul destinations, but only an hour and a half flight from London it works perfectly for shorter trips where guests still want that unique experience.
