Beer, Harmony and Shamrocks, too!: Stop for the perfect luncheon

The Ring of Kerry is a road circuit N70 around County Kerry that gives the most incredible views I’ve ever seen. We drove through small towns and villages that took us back in history. Yet, all of these towns had their own character. Plenty of shoreline is visible for photos. The weather cooperated with lots of sun and great lighting – and miraculously, no rain.

Along the Ring of Kerry

We stopped in Sneem for lunch on Monday, the 28^th. Coming into the town, visitors see a view of the shore line and a beach. As we rounded road N70, we rode into yet another beautiful town, with brightly painted buildings, a town square and living flowers all over. Baskets, window boxes, and hanging planters all abound in Sneem since it, too, is competing in the national Tidy Towns competition.

Near Sneem

The Town of Sneem in Ireland

Our driver pulled in near the city square and dropped us off at Bank House B&B for lunch. Our hosts, Noel and Margaret Harrington, greeted us at the door warmly. Each one of us felt welcome in this establishment, as if we were old friends returning from a long trip.

The Bank House Bed and Breakfast

We were shown into the dining room, just inside the front door. The tables were all set perfectly for a light luncheon of sandwiches and scones. As we settled in, Noel brought tea and coffee to each table, where we served each other. Conversations rang out, where just a few minutes earlier, many of us were quiet on the bus. We heard many stories of the town from our driver as we rode in. Now we were sitting in a historic building of 202 years old, having lunch.

Fresh sandwiches, presented in baskets, waited for us on the table. Margaret brought in fresh out-of-the-oven scones. Fresh butter was on the table as was cream for our tea.

Suite 1 at the B&B

Small, but comfortable and relaxing rooms

Many stories were shared during this meal. Noel retired from firefighting several years ago. Afterward, Noel and Margaret took over her childhood home, and turned it into a bed and breakfast. We had the opportunity to explore the second floor guest room after we were finished eating. One of their favorite guests was Maureen O’Hara, the actress. She was Noel’s neighbor when he was growing up in the countryside. She stays with them each time she returns to Ireland. Noel proudly showed us all photos of the two of them throughout the years.

The River Sneem

Town with a bridge in the middle

Peggy, Carol and Patti on the Stone Bridge

After eating and our tour of the bed and breakfast, we took a stroll through the town. It was good to get some exercise, especially after sitting in the bus for so long. The River Sneem has a narrowing near the town. It’s not the type of river you could easily tube or kayak along – no, not at all. But the water rushing along the rocks gave us all a peaceful feeling as we walked along the main road. The river also cuts the town in half. Connecting the two parts of the town is a stone bridge, strong enough to hold cars and coaches. We passed the Wrestler’s Bar with a story behind it. The bar was named in honor of native sons and former wrestlers Steve and Paddy Casey.

South side of Sneem with the Wrestler's Bar

The group spread out around the town, walking and taking pictures. We spoke to a lot of the local people who welcomed us to their town with warm smiles. Being so close to the coast, the town is known for their fishing. The church even has a fish at the top of the weather vane.

Local church facing the river with...

...a fish at the top

Music, music everywhere

Town center in Sneem

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Our visit to Sneem was too short, but one to repeat when we all come back on our own. So much history! So many friends! Now to continue on the Ring of Kerry...