Killarney : Ireland

Killarney is a town in County Kerry, southwestern Ireland. The town is on the northeastern shore of Lough Leane, which is part of Killarney National Park. The population is only 15,000 yet it feels much bigger. Because this is  a popular tourist town (the Ring of Kerry is a big attraction) there are ample restaurants, hotels, and shops. The Killarney Golf & FIshing Club has 3 "parklands style" golf courses (18 holes each) and has been the site of the Irish Open. In 2011 it was named Ireland's tidiest town.  Photo From the top of Torc looking at Muckross house in Killarney courtesy of Wikipedia and TJBrosnan;(public domain); photo of The Lakes of Killarney as viewed from Ladies View. Ladies' View provides a good view of the Lakes including the Gap of Dunloe, the Black Valley and Ross Castle courtesy of Wikipedia (public domain).

There are existing and new neighborhoods in Killarney. or there are smaller villages outisde of town that might be more charming. Prices have falled to closer to U.S. levels.

This is a pretty old town near the coast that attracts tourists. There are six active rowing clubs in the town, who share a common history in Ireland's oldest surviving regatta, the Killarney Regatta, which is held annually in July. For Americans who choose to live or retire here it has a very familar feeling, particularly because you will be mingling with the Irish-American names like Dowd you know so well from home.

Killarney can be a bit touristy in season. It is not as totally charming as some towns like Lahinch.

People who want to retire to a bustling town on Ireland's west coast that is familar with expatriates.

Tourism is very important to the local economy.

Killarney in in southwestern Ireland near the coast.  Considering the latitude the weather is fairly temperate as the terminus of the Gulf Stream has some warming effect.

Killarney SummerFestis a highlight of the year in the town, featuring outdoor and indoor concerts from major Irish and international acts. There is a great assortment of restaurants due to this being a very popular tourist destination.