Adventure Breaks & Festivals This Autumn
Stay at Ballyroe Lodge in Tralee
As the summer crowds fade and the Kerry landscape turns shades of gold, Autumn is the perfect time to discover the charm of Ballyroe Lodge. Set within landscaped gardens and framed by the Slieve Mish Mountains with sweeping views over Tralee Bay, Ballyroe Lodge offers the ideal base for both adventure seekers and culture lovers. You’ll find something to inspire every day of your stay.
August
Rose of Tralee International Festival
15th – 19th August 2025
Every August, the town of Tralee transforms into a vibrant hub of celebration as it plays host to the world-famous Rose of Tralee International Festival. This cherished event is a joyful showcase of Irish heritage, intellect, charm and global community spirit, drawing visitors and participants from across the globe. Filled with glamorous selection nights, cultural performances, family-friendly entertainment and colourful parades, creating an atmosphere of excitement and pride throughout the town.
September
Listowel Races
21st – 27th September 2025
In September, the nearby heritage town of Listowel comes alive with the thrill of the Listowel Harvest Racing Festival, a week-long celebration. Crowds gather in their finest attire to watch thrilling races unfold against a backdrop of lively chatter, live music and the unmistakable buzz of competition. Beyond the racetrack, Listowel’s charming streets fill with visitors enjoying its cafés, pubs and boutique shops, making the festival as much a social occasion as it is a sporting highlight.
Siamsa Tíre
National Folk Theatre
For an evening of culture and artistry, Siamsa Tíre, located beside Tralee Town Park, is the beating heart of Irish folk performance. Its stage hosts a rich variety of productions year-round, including traditional music and dance, contemporary theatre, literature, visual arts and comedy. A visit here offers an authentic taste of Ireland’s cultural heritage, brought to life through professional performances that celebrate storytelling and creativity.
Blennerville Windmill & Visitor Centre
Standing proudly on the edge of Tralee Bay, Blennerville Windmill is Ireland’s largest working windmill and an unmissable landmark. Visitors can explore the fully restored mill to learn how grain is ground into flour, climb to the upper floors for stunning coastal views and discover the rich history of the surrounding area in the attached visitor centre. Exhibitions here delve into local maritime heritage and the poignant story of Irish emigration, making this both a scenic and educational stop.
Kingdom Greenway
Tralee–Fenit
Cyclists and walkers alike will delight in the Kingdom Greenway, a scenic route following the former railway line between Tralee and Fenit. Stretching approximately 13.6 km, the path offers a traffic-free escape through lush countryside and along the coastline, with spectacular views out over Tralee Bay. Whether you complete the route in one go or take your time with a picnic along the way, the greenway provides a refreshing way to connect with the region’s natural beauty.
Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre
Nature lovers will be enchanted by the Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre, a unique combination of outdoor adventure and environmental discovery. Boardwalks wind through the wetlands, offering perfect vantage points for spotting native birds and enjoying sweeping views towards Fenit. Visitors can take guided boat tours, climb the viewing tower for panoramic vistas or simply meander along peaceful walking trails surrounded by the colours of autumn.
October
Kerry International Film Festival
16th – 19th September 2025
Film lovers will be spoilt for choice during the Kerry International Film Festival, which takes place each October in Killarney and surrounding towns. The programme features a rich variety of screenings, from thought-provoking documentaries and student shorts to captivating international and Irish feature films. Many events include Q&A sessions with filmmakers and panel discussions, offering audiences a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process.
Ring of Kerry Day Trip
A trip around the Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland’s most iconic drives, and in autumn it takes on an extra layer of beauty. The 179 km route passes through colourful villages, dramatic mountain passes, shimmering lakes and sweeping Atlantic vistas. Along the way, you’ll find endless opportunities to stop for photos, enjoy hearty local meals and discover hidden gems off the main path. It’s an unforgettable journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the country.
Ballyseedy Woods
Just 2 kilometres from Tralee, Ballyseedy Woods offers a magical retreat into nature’s quiet beauty. This ancient woodland is threaded with looped walking trails beneath a canopy of beech, oak and ash trees.. Along the way, walkers may discover crumbling ruins, centuries-old stone walls and shaded glens. The crisp autumn air and the crunch of leaves underfoot make Ballyseedy Woods a perfect destination for a leisurely stroll or a moment of peaceful escape from the bustle of town.
Banna Strand
A visit to Tralee wouldn’t be complete without a walk on Banna Strand, a vast, windswept beach steeped in history and renowned for its beauty. The golden sands stretch for miles, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic and plenty of space to breathe in the fresh, salty air. In autumn, the light takes on a soft golden glow, perfect for photography, while the sound of the waves and the wide-open horizon make it an ideal spot for peaceful reflection or a brisk coastal walk.
Your Autumn Escape Awaits
From world-class festivals to tranquil nature trails, every day brings a new adventure when you stay at Ballyroe Lodge. Book your Autumn stay now and experience Kerry’s vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery at its very best.
Book Your Stay
Ballyroe Lodge is the ideal base for your Autumn Escape. You’ll have easy access to many outdoor adventures and cultural festivals.
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