Up Close ~ Waterville, County Kerry Narrated

Welcome to Waterville, a small coastal town located in County Kerry, Ireland. With its breathtaking stunning landscapes, welcoming locals, and rich culture and history, Waterville is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Emerald Isle. Let's start with the town itself. Waterville is a small coastal town on the Ring of Kerry, a scenic drive that showcases some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Ireland. The town is famous for its fishing, with anglers coming from all over the world to try their luck in the Atlantic waters. The waters around Waterville are home to a variety of fish, including salmon, sea trout, and brown trout. In fact, the town has a long history of fishing, with the first salmon being caught here over 250 years ago. If you're not into fishing, don't worry - there's still plenty to do in Waterville. The town has several shops, restaurants, and pubs, where you can sample some of the local cuisine and enjoy a pint of Guinness. When it comes to shopping, visitors can browse the unique and local products available at the Waterville Craft Market. This market is home to a variety of handmade crafts and goods, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles. Waterville also boasts a beautiful, sandy beach that stretches for over two miles. It's the perfect spot for a relaxing day in the sun, and it's popular with both locals and tourists alike. Waterville is also known for its golfing, with two world-class golf courses located in the town. The courses are situated on the coast, offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Golf enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise at the Waterville Golf Links, a world-renowned golf course that has hosted some of the most prestigious golfing events in Ireland. The course is situated on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, providing golfers with spectacular views as they play. Beyond the town itself, there are several attractions worth visiting in the surrounding area. One of the most popular is the Skellig Islands, a group of small, rocky islands located about 12 kilometers off the coast of Waterville. The famous Skellig Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the filming location of Star Wars: The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi. These islands are home to a sixth-century monastery that is steeped in history and provides a stunning backdrop for any visitor. The site includes several stone structures, including beehive huts and a chapel. Another popular attraction is the Kerry International Dark-Sky Reserve, located just a short drive from Waterville. The reserve is one of only three Gold Tier dark sky reserves in the world, making it a must-visit for stargazers. For those who enjoy the great outdoors, Waterville is an excellent destination for hiking and exploring. The town is located on the Kerry Way, a long-distance hiking trail that takes visitors through some of the most beautiful scenery in Ireland. With so much to see and do, Waterville is a destination that truly has something for everyone. Whether you're into fishing, golfing, or just soaking up the stunning scenery, you're sure to find something to love in this charming coastal town. Waterville has a unique connection to Hollywood legend Charlie Chaplin, who visited the town regularly with his family in the 1960s. In honor of his visits, a statue of Chaplin was erected in the town, and the annual Charlie Chaplin Comedy Film Festival is held here every year. Whether you're a golfer, hiker, history buff, or just looking for a relaxing beach vacation, Waterville has something to offer everyone. Its stunning scenery, rich history, and welcoming community make it a destination that will stay with you long after you leave. Come and experience the magic of Waterville for yourself. Thank you for joining us on this journey through Waterville County Kerry Ireland. We hope to see you here soon.