December 2007 myguideIreland Newsletter

Killarney Winter Wonderland

Discover an Emerald Green winter wonderland and experience the magic of an Irish Christmas in Killarney.

In Ireland, the winter months may be cold but Christmas time brings a warmth of its own and nowhere more so than the Christmas Festival in Killarney.

Ireland's most popular destination outside Dublin, Killarney attracts visitors year round and is renowned for its rugged natural beauty, warm Irish hospitality and colourful character.

Festive Fun

Running from November 29^th to January 6^th Killarney's Christmas Festival promises a safe and fun environment for families with a host of events, markets and activities to keep everyone entertained.

The festivities begin on the 29^th November with a children's torchlight parade and the big switch on of the town's Christmas lights by the Mayor of Killarney with special guest - the big man in red himself. On the 1^st December is a classic car rally starting in the town and taking in the majestic scenery of the Killarney National Park, followed by a Christmas Craft & Food Fair on the 2^nd. From then on the events come thick and fast with the opening of Christmas art exhibitions at galleries throughout the town.

Over the weekend of the 7^th to 9^th December, Killarney's Main Street is the venue for a host of open-air markets showcasing the very best Irish food and crafts as well as goods from the continent. And due to popular demand, there'll be another chance to visit the Christmas Market on the weekend of the 22^nd & 23^rd December.

Also from December 7^th Killarney's Christmas Skating Rink is open every day except Christmas Day, while children can meet Santa at his Grotto in Deenagh Lodge in the National Park.

In addition, the Irish National Exhibition Centre (INEC) hosts the timeless children's pantomime Peter Pan, along with a host of bands, and organised winter walks are available throughout the Killarney National Park.

Christmas Cribs

If you're planning a seasonal vacation to Killarney, myguideIreland has a range of accommodation options for the perfect stay:

Aghadoe Heights - Boasting one of the best views in Killarney, the Aghadoe Heights is a stylish contemporary hotel offering sumptuous five-star luxury together with one of Ireland's most renowned resort spas.

As the name would suggest, the Aghadoe Heights holds a lofty position as not only one of Killarney's top hotels, but one boasting an unbeatable location overlooking Killarney Lakes with sprawling views of the majestic Kerry mountains.

Inside, the Aghadoe displays stylish design and chic furnishings to create a contemporary hip-hotel. While the hotel's staff provide the kind of warmth and down to earth hospitality you would find in an intimate country house hotel.

N.B. Aghadoe Heights is closed December 31^st - February

Fairview Guest House - A stylish boutique guesthouse, the Fairview is located in the centre of Killarney and is perfect for exploring this lively town and the scenic surroundings of the Killarney National Park.

The Fairview has won numerous awards for its high standards of accommodation, and has been named Killarney's Best Guest House, while owners James & Shelley O'Neill offer their warm Irish hospitality.

N.B. Fairview Guest House is closed 24-26 December

The Cahernane - A graceful stately home brimming with historic character, the Cahernane is tucked away in secluded grounds bordering the Killarney National Park on the outskirts of the town.

Cahernane House is an elegant Jacobean styled manor house of the Victorian era, similar in architectural style to Muckross House, with a modern but sympathetically styled extension.

As well as awards for its cuisine, the Cahernane has also rightly won awards for its hospitality and comfort, and staff are courteous, professional and friendly.

N.B The Cahernane is closed 22^nd December - February

If you wish to make a booking with either of these hotels, contact one of our guides. (link to contact details)

Key Christmas Dates:

• - The fourth Sunday before Christmas - Start of Advent

• - 8^th December - Unofficial start of Christmas
• - 24^th December - Christmas Eve
• - 25^th December - Christmas Day (Public Holiday)
• - 26^th December - St Stephen's Day (Public Holiday)
• - 31^st December - New Year's Eve
• - 1^st January - New Year's Day (Public Holiday)
• - 6^th January - Women's Little Christmas

Finally, from all at myguideIreland - "Nollaig shona agus Athbhliain shuimneach duit" - Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year!

Seamus O'Murchu