A busy market town in beautiful East Kerry which takes its name from the Anglo-Norman castle built in 1226. Located at the gateway to Co. Kerry, in the Sliabh Luachra area, Castleisland is rich in history & heritage. The town offers several attractions, one of which is a lovely walk along the banks of the river Maine. Castleisland is home to Crag Cave, discovered in 1983 and thought to be over 1 million years old it is a magical wonderland of stalagmites and stalactites. It is an all-weather visitor attraction located in Castleisland Co. Kerry.
A visit to the Castleisland Castle, which was home to the Fitzgeralds, the Earls of Desmond (south Munster) were the most powerful family in Medieval Munster. Also known as the Geraldines, they ruled their lordship like kings.
The Castleisland Heritage Trail is approximately 3.2km (2miles) long encapsulates most of Castleisland’s rich and diverse culture and heritage. It will take you on a journey from the towns Norman origins to famine times and the Workhouse, through its religious and educational history, its industrial heritage and the coming of the railway.
One of Castleisland’s most celebrated sons was Con Houlihan, a famous sportswriter. The Con Houlihan Trail is a lovely walking experience in the town, starting at the Latin Quarter, and depicts 15 of Con Houlihan’s most famous quotes.
We hope you enjoy your visit to Castleisland, an ideal base for exploring beautiful East Kerry.