History, culture and community make Tarbert a great destination

NORTH Kerry can boast of many scenic and cultural destinations and Tarbert is a place one can write of its many wonders and yet still end up missing out on something positively unique. A gateway to the Kingdom from its northern coastline, Tarbert is a bridge between the southwest through its ferry service and one of many stepping stones along the Wild Atlantic Way. The reward for coming this far north is a warm and welcoming village with plenty of history.

Tarbert is a standout part of Kerry with its richly vibrant scenery and topography that is enhanced by a strong community spirit. Tarbert has faced the hardships of emigration and recession during its history and yet still retains a powerful sense of community solidarity with a warm welcome for visitors.

Some of Tarbert’s true magic undoubtedly lies in the combination of character, place and people. For it is this which gives substance to its sense of identity. Its environmentally rich landscape attracts wildlife enthusiasts from all over Ireland and beyond, its museums, festivals and leisure facilities – Tarbert has it all. The village has a very active Historic and Heritage Society and it’s well worth getting in touch with them if outings and fieldtrips is your area of interest.

But Tarbert is not a place where the people sit back and wait for things to happen. Far from it. A collective and highly industrious effort to enhance community life is an important part of Tarbert Development Association’s focus. This group serves as a catalyst for positive community development. Similarly, Tarbert Tidy Towns consists of a hardworking band of volunteers who are part of Tarbert Development Association’s ‘ Environment & Tidy Towns Unit’ – and give freely of their time to keep Tarbert in tip- top shape.

Tarbert also has much to offer the visitor in terms of history and adventure tourism with no shortage of B& Bs, self- catering and hostels available. Among its many attractions are Tarbert Bridewell Visitor Centre, Tarbert House, cycling, walking, historic tours, plus many beautiful picnic areas dotted around its hinterlands for people who like to enjoy a day’s adventure in north Kerry.

You’ll want for nothing in Tarbert with the range of services available from a pharmacy, butchers, shops, motor repairs, hairdressers, healthcare, construction services, beauticians, plumbing, restaurants, pubs, social services and sports clubs - it’s all here at Tarbert where the aim is to strike an essential work/ life balance in a stunning location.