Overview
Nestled in the heart of County Kerry, Farranfore (Irish: An Fearann Fóir) is a compact village that punches well above its weight as a transport hub. The settlement lies on the N22 road, roughly 17 km (10 mi) east of Tralee and 15 km (9 mi) west of Killarney, making it an ideal base for exploring the Ring of Kerry or the rugged west coast. Though modest in size, Farranfore is best known for its railway station and Kerry Airport, both of which connect the region to the rest of Ireland and mainland Europe.
History
Farranfore originated as a turnpike stop; a gate at the crossroads once marked the boundary of the lands owned by the Earls of Kenmare. The village’s transport legacy accelerated in the 19th century when the railway arrived. Farranfore railway station opened on 18 July 1859 and was renamed Farranfore Junction in 1893 because it became the departure point for the legendary line to Valentia Harbour – the westernmost railway in Europe. The line, inaugurated in September 1893, offered breathtaking views of Dingle Bay, Inch and Rossbeigh beaches, and the Blasket Islands. It remained in operation for just over half a century before closing in February 1960, a casualty of declining rural populations and the rise of road transport.
The disused track has not been forgotten. Recent proposals for the Kerry Greenway aim to transform the old Farranfore‑to‑Valentia railway corridor into a world‑class walking and cycling route, echoing the success of the Great Western Greenway in Mayo. Sections of the former line already form part of the Kerry Way National Waymarked Trail, offering hikers a glimpse of the historic railway’s engineering feats and the spectacular coastal scenery that once thrilled train passengers.
What to See & Do
Kerry Airport
Just a short drive from the village centre, Kerry Airport (often referred to as Farranfore Airport) is the second busiest airport in the Republic of Ireland after Dublin. Operated by the Dublin Airport Authority, the airport serves a mix of scheduled and charter flights. Since Ryanair opened a base in July 2008, daily services link Farranfore to London Stansted, London Luton and Frankfurt‑Hahn. The airport also briefly hosted a Ryanair service to Liverpool in 2006. For up‑to‑date flight information, visit the Kerry Airport website.
Farranfore Railway Station
The station remains a vital stop on the Tralee‑Killarney line, offering regular connections to both towns and onward services to Cork, Dublin and beyond. Tickets can be purchased up to 90 days in advance via the Irish Rail Journey Planner, either online or at the on‑site ticket vending machines. QR tickets are also available for download and can be stored on a smartphone wallet. Limited wheelchair‑accessible spaces are provided on each train; booking in advance is advisable.
| How to collect | Where |
|---|---|
| Ticket Vending Machine | Any Iarnród Éireann station |
| QR Ticket (PDF) | Download from Journey Planner app |
Exploring the Old Railway Line
While the tracks have been lifted, the route still invites adventurous walkers and cyclists. The proposed Kerry Greenway would follow the 62 km corridor from Farranfore to Valentia Harbour, promising spectacular vistas of Dingle Bay and the Blasket Islands. Portions of the line are already incorporated into the Kerry Way, and the area around Glenbeigh offers a “Mountain Stage” with dramatic coastal panoramas. Visitors should be aware that some sections traverse steep, unstable ground and feature closed bridges; access may require landowner permission and a degree of caution.
Walking & Cycling on the Kerry Greenway
The Kerry Greenway project, still at the planning stage, envisions a traffic‑free surface suitable for walkers, cyclists and wheelchair users. When complete, the 62 km trail will start at Farranfore railway station, pass through the villages of Castleisland, Beaufort and Ballymacelligott, and finish at Valentia Harbour. In the meantime, the 10 km stretch between Farranfore and the village of Castleisland is already open as a gravel path and forms part of the Kerry Way. The route offers views of the River Lee, rolling pastureland and, on clear days, the distant peaks of the MacGillycuddy Reeks.
Local Culture
Farranfore has produced a few notable sports figures, including footballers Jack Sherwood and Donal Daly. The village’s modest size means that traditional Irish hospitality is on full display in its local pubs and cafés, providing a pleasant stop after a day of travel.
Practical Information
Getting There
- By Air: Fly into Kerry Airport (IATA: KIR). The airport is approximately 8 km from the village centre and offers car‑hire, taxi services and a short shuttle to the N22.
- By Train: Farranfore railway station is served by Irish Rail’s InterCity and regional services. Trains run roughly hourly between Tralee and Killarney, with connections to Cork and Dublin. Ticket purchases can be made online via the Irish Rail Journey Planner, at ticket machines, or through the QR‑ticket system.
- By Road: The N22 connects Farranfore directly to Tralee (west) and Killarney (east). Signage is clear, and ample parking is available at both the airport and the railway station.
Parking & Car Hire
Free short‑term parking is provided at the railway station car park, with longer‑stay spaces available for a modest fee. Kerry Airport offers a large, secure car‑park (pay‑on‑exit) and several on‑site car‑hire operators, making it easy to pick up a vehicle for exploring the Ring of Kerry or the Dingle Peninsula.
Accessibility
Wheelchair‑accessible spaces are limited on trains; passengers are encouraged to book these seats in advance through the Irish Rail booking system. The airport facilities include accessible restrooms and assistance services on request.
Contact & Further Details
- Railway Station Website: https://www.irishrail.ie/en-ie/station/farranfore
- Airport Website: https://www.kerryairport.ie
Nearby Attractions
While Farranfore itself is a gateway, the surrounding region offers a wealth of attractions: the historic town of Tralee, the UNESCO‑listed Killarney National Park, the Ring of Kerry scenic drive, and the rugged coastline of the Dingle Peninsula are all within easy reach.
Whether you are arriving by plane, hopping on a train, or setting out on a cycling adventure along the future Kerry Greenway, Farranfore provides a convenient and charming foothold in the heart of Kerry’s spectacular landscape.