Sneem is situated on the Iveragh Peninsula, surrounded by mountains, and is part of the Ring of Kerry.  The Irish name of the town “An tSnaidhm” translates into English as “The Knot”.  This is thought to relate to the winding Sneem River which flows through the town and into the Kenmare Bay.  Sneem enjoys the mild currents of the Atlantic Ocean gulf stream, which gives rise to sub-tropical vegetation.  The town is comprised of two squares, North and South, which are joined by a bridge over the river.  Gaily painted houses and shops surround the beautifully kept greens in the centre of the squares.  The wonderful scenery, and the renowned hospitality of the town attracts people from all over the world.  A winner of several National Tidy Towns Awards, Sneem maintains its well-kept appearance, whilst enjoying a relaxing atmosphere which is welcoming to all.

The Main Routeway of the area, “the Ring of Kerry”, is a national primary route (the N70).  Frequently described as the most scenic drive in Ireland, it leaves Killarney heading up to Killorglin on the north side of the Iveragh Peninsula.  It hugs the coastline down through Cahersiveen and Waterville to Sneem and onto Kenmare, then heads up through Molls Gap and down past the Lakes, before returning to Killarney.

This is a mystical and unspoilt region which has attracted visitors for hundreds of years.  Its spectacular beauty is beyond question, and it has some of the finest beaches in Europe.  The Ring of Kerry also provides an amazing insight into the ancient heritage of Ireland - see the Iron Age Forts and Ogham Stones, old Monasteries and a landscape carved out of rock by the last Ice Age 10,000 years ago.

GPS Co-ordinates - 51.838376 - 9.899797

From  Dublin - 297 kms  ~  Limerick - 125kms  ~  Cork - 98 kms  ~  Tralee - 78 kms  ~  Killarney - 46 kms  ~  Kenmare - 21 kms.

Nearest Airport - Kerry (Farranfore) - 60 kms  ~  Nearest Train Station - Killarney
 

For more information on Sneem visit www.sneem.com.

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Will I be able to get about Sneem in my wheelchair?

If one uses a wheelchair, this is the first question one asks about a new destination. Problems of access are first and foremost the consideration. I am very happy to report that, by and large, Sneem is very accessible for wheelchair users. It must be pointed that Sneem is a several centuries old village and that there are a few places in it which are inaccessible.

Sneem has a North Square and a Southern counterpart. They are joined by a bridge over the river that gave its name to Sneem, a bridge which unfortunately is hazardous to wheelchair users because it has a narrow and inaccessible footpath so the wheelchairs must travel on the road! But it's only a few seconds' journey and most drivers smilingly give way!!! But care must be taken nevertheless.

South Square has the pharmacy and a convenience store which are accessible. Both churches are accessible, as is the doctor's surgery and shops such as Quills. There are several ice cream shops and pubs where the craic can be mighty! (NB: Every pub in Sneem is wheelchair accessible as is the new Sneem Hotel)

Following on from South Square is a road leading down to the sea where is found the relaxing 'Garden Of The Senses' with many scented plants and its birdlife, there is also beautiful stone work on display amid a picnic area.

Both squares of Sneem display sculptures and artwork with several commemorative pieces about local and international dignitaries.

North Square has two butcher's shops and a hardware shop (this is a tight squeeze!) and a bakery across from it, also the excellent D O'Shea's pub which has great food and a wheelchair-friendly 'Ladies'. On this square is the friendly Fish and Chop shop, again fully accessible.

There is a steep slope at The Riverside Cafe which renders it inaccessible, even for powered chairs unfortunately. The Village Kitchen nearby is accessible so no one need go hungry!

But the main thing to bear in mind is that Sneem's Family Festival will offer many things to interest and entertain you and being there is both possible to achieve in a wheelchair and is a MUST if you want to have FUN!

Pat Flynn

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