Exclusive Experiences

Discover Kerry through a collection of thoughtfully curated experiences, chosen to bring you closer to the landscape, heritage and traditions that surround Aghadoe. Trace your family story through a personalised genealogy experience, take to the water by kayak, explore the countryside on horseback, or discover the region from a new perspective with Aquaterra. Enjoy the character of Irish whiskey through a private tasting, experience the thrill of falconry, or step into local life with an authentic creamery experience.

Each experience has been carefully selected to showcase a different side of Kerry, offering meaningful encounters with its people, culture and spectacular natural surroundings. Whether you are seeking adventure, heritage or a true taste of local life, these memorable experiences are designed to enrich your stay at Aghadoe Heights and create a deeper connection with this remarkable corner of Ireland.

Kerry Falconry

Step into the ancient world of falconry with a memorable, hands-on experience during your stay at Aghadoe Heights. Guided by an expert falconer, you’ll have the opportunity to meet magnificent birds of prey, including hawks and owls, learn about their behaviour and history, and experience the unforgettable moment of a bird soaring through the air to land on your gloved hand. Suitable for all ages and requiring no previous experience, this private encounter can be arranged on-site at Aghadoe Heights or at Falconry Kerry’s countryside location just outside Killarney, where guests can enjoy a leisurely walk through the meadows of a working farm with views towards the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. A truly unique way to connect with Kerry’s natural landscape and the centuries-old tradition known as the “sport of kings.”

Majestic owl perched on a gloved hand in lush hotel garden with vibrant flowers, offering unique wildlife experience.

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Guest reading in cosy study with natural light, wooden shelves, and a vintage desk lamp.

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Genealogy

Uncover your Irish roots with Ancestors from Ireland, a Killarney-based genealogy service founded by professional genealogist Rachel Foley. With more than 25 years’ experience and a deep passion for Irish history, culture and heritage, Rachel specialises in tracing family connections across Ireland and around the world. Drawing on an extensive range of historical records, from census and church documents to land, civil and burial records, each search is carefully researched and evidence-led. Guests can embark on a highly personal journey into their family story, discovering the people, places and connections that shaped their ancestry and receiving a beautifully compiled record of their findings. A meaningful and memorable way to connect with Ireland on a truly personal level during your stay at Aghadoe Heights.

Aqua Terra

Discover Kerry’s dramatic coastline from the water with Kerry Aqua Terra, an award-winning experience created by local husband-and-wife team Brendan and Elizabeth. Born and raised on Valentia Island, Brendan brings an intimate knowledge of Valentia Harbour and the Skellig Coast, while Elizabeth’s passion for history and storytelling brings the region’s rich maritime heritage to life. Together, they offer everything from relaxed private cruises to more adventurous expeditions, combining local insight, fascinating stories and encounters with the area’s wildlife and spectacular scenery. Each journey is a warm and authentic introduction to one of Ireland’s most remarkable coastal landscapes, shaped by two people with a genuine passion for sharing the place they call home.

Scenic coastal view with lighthouse and guests on boat tour under blue sky at seaside hotel location.

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Guests kayaking on tranquil lake with scenic mountain views and clear blue skies; adventure activities at countryside hotel.

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Kayaking On The Lakes

Experience the beauty of Killarney National Park from the water with a guided kayaking adventure led by Nathan, your experienced local guide. Beginning beneath the walls of 15th-century Ross Castle, paddle across the sparkling waters of Lough Leane, weaving between wooded islands and discovering limestone caves, hidden corners and stories from the lake’s rich history. Along the way, Nathan will help you master the basics of kayaking while keeping watch for native wildlife, including the magnificent white-tailed sea eagle soaring overhead. The experience also includes a landing at the atmospheric ruins of Innisfallen Abbey, where centuries of history meet the peaceful beauty of the lake and its resident red deer. A relaxed and memorable way to discover one of Kerry’s most iconic landscapes from an entirely different perspective.

Liberator Whiskey Tasting

Step into a remarkable chapter of Irish history with a private visit to the O’Connell family home, set on the shores of Lough Leane with views towards the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. Hosted by Maurice O’Connell, whose family has been connected to the estate for more than 900 years, guests will hear stories of generations past and learn about his celebrated relative, Daniel O’Connell, ‘The Liberator’, renowned for achieving political change through peaceful means. The experience continues at the family’s small-batch distillery, housed within the estate’s historic outbuildings and surrounded by barley fields that play an important role in the whiskey-making process. Your visit concludes with an intimate whiskey tasting with Maurice in the drawing room — a truly personal experience bringing together family heritage, local history and craftsmanship during your stay at Aghadoe Heights.

Lakeview Single Estate Irish Whiskey bottle with mountain lake view in background

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Educational exhibit on Kerry Creamery history with vintage photos, showcasing local heritage for hotel guests.

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Kerry Creamery Experience

Just 10 minutes from Aghadoe Heights, the Kerry Creamery Experience in Listry offers a charming glimpse into Ireland’s rural past. Join Annette to make traditional Irish scones from a treasured family recipe before exploring the lovingly restored 1919 creamery and hearing stories of the farming families who once depended on it. Meet the friendly farm animals, then enjoy your freshly baked scones with butter, jam, cream and Barry’s Tea while taking in views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks.

Horse riding

Explore Killarney National Park on horseback with Killarney Riding Stables, a family-run business welcoming riders since 1968. Guests can choose from one, two or three-hour guided trails, making the experience suitable for everything from a gentle introduction to a more immersive ride through the park. Trails lead through the Knockreer Estate, north of Lough Leane, with views across Ross Castle and Ross Island, Innisfallen Island, the Lakes of Killarney and the surrounding mountains. The longer trails offer more time to enjoy the park’s varied landscape, flora and fauna at an unhurried pace. All rides are guided and tailored to suit different levels of experience, from complete beginners to confident riders.

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