Republic of Ireland, Kilkee

Kilkee is a small coastal town in County Clare, Ireland. It is located midway between Kilrush and Doonbeg on the N67 road. The town, one of the most famous resorts in Ireland, is particularly popular as a seaside resort with people from Limerick City. It has been a resort since the early 19th century when it was featured on the front page of the Illustrated London News as the premier bathing spot in what was then the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland.

The town retains some of its 19th century Victorian feel, and also features many modern amenities. The horseshoe bay is protected from the Atlantic Ocean weather by the Duggerna Reef and is one of the safest bathing spots in Europe. Kilkee has regularly been awarded the Blue Flag by the European Commission.

Festival

In 2007 Kilkee hosted its first ever Cois Fharraige. The festival was spread over 3 days from September 7 and consisted of live music and water sport events including a surf competition.

Life

The town is undergoing serious expansion with the development of hotels, estates and other forms of housing. During peak tourist season the beach or "horse shoe" bay is choc-a-bloc with tourists. The town's main source of income is the tourist industry, so many recreational places are set up all along the town, including restaurants, pubs and cafés.

Sport

Along with bathing on the strand, swimmers can choose from the Pollock Holes, New Found Out and Byrnes Cove. The Pollock Holes, on the west end of town, are three natural rock-enclosed pools, with water that is changed by every tide. The Pollock Holes are hugely popular with visitors to the town.

Kilkee is also a mecca for divers. Jacques Cousteau declared that it was the best diving spot in Europe. The Kilkee Dive Centre, Kilkee is a fully-equipped SCUBA diving centre which caters to both beginners and experts.

Kilkee is home to an 18-hole golf course. The first and second tees overlook the Atlantic Ocean and the third tee overlooks Chimney Bay. The views from these holes are spectacular.

Transport

The town was once one of the two termini of the West Clare Railway from Ennis, the other being the neighbouring town of Kilrush. The railway closed in 1961.