Brandon Hotel Conference & Leisure Centre, Tralee

Brandon Hotel and Spa Tralee, History and Culture

1. The Medieval Geraldine Experience takes you back in time to Geraldine Tralee in 1450. The term ‘Geraldine’ comes from the name Fitzgerald, and the Fitzgeralds were one of the original Norman families that invaded Ireland in the late 12th century. The Fitzgeralds founded the town of Tralee in 1216. Although nothing remains of the town walls, you have the chance to experience medieval life in Geraldine Tralee. You will experience all the sights, sounds and smells of a medieval town on your journey through the streets, port, abbey and castle of Tralee in 1450.
2. The Aqua Dome is one of Ireland's largest indoor waterworlds and is brimming with exciting features that capture the imagination of child and adult alike.
3. Blennerville is Ireland´s only commercially operated windmill. It is also the tallest of its kind in Europe: 21.3 metres high. This 18th century windmill is now open to the public. There are many fascinating workings to be seen as the giant sails turn. The adjoining building houses interesting exhibitions on emigration and The History of Milling.
4. Crag Cave is formed of limestone, it is a colorful wonderland of stalagmites and stalactites. Discovered in 1983 and thought to be over one million years old, this natural attraction has dramatic sound and lighting effects.
5. Muckross House is situated close to the shores of Muckross Lake, amidst the beautiful scenery of Killarney National Park. The house is a focal point within the Park and is the ideal base from which to explore its terrain.
6. Golf When Arnold Palmer came to Barrow he thought he had never seen a piece of land so ideally suited to golf. The Tralee area is lucky to have a choice of world class golf courses from the Tralee golf course at Barrow, to Ballybunion's famous links. The settings of these courses are so spectacular that it is easy to be distracted by the splendor of your surroundings.
7. Carrantuohill (1004 m), guarded by steep and treacherous crags, is Ireland's highest mountain.
8. Fungi, the Bottlenose Dolphin resident of Dingle Harbour has, over the past 15 years of his residency warmed the hearts of the thousands of people that have traveled from near and far to see and swim with him. The fact that he is absolutely wild and free , yet remains here in Dingle (now with celebrity status) being vested by thousands, is something which has baffled scientists and laymen alike. One thing is sure though - he loves all the attention!
9. There is no other landscape in western Europe with the density and variety of archaeological monuments as the Dingle Peninsula. This mountainous finger of land which juts into the Atlantic Ocean has supported various tribes and populations for almost 6,000 years. Because of the peninsula's remote location, and lack of specialised agriculture, there is a remarkable preservation of over 2,000 monuments. It is impossible to visit the Dingle Peninsula and not be impressed by its archaeological heritage. When one combines each site's folklore and mythology, which have been passed orally from generation to generation through the Irish language, one can begin to understand how unique and complex is the history of this peninsula.
10. Skellig Rock. No trip to Ireland is complete without a visit to this awesome, 6th century, monastic site. Hardy monks lived in beehive huts on this island. Today it's inhabited by Puffins and Gannets. Charter boats take you on the 8 mile trip to this world famous heritage site.
11. Cork & Blarney Castle, The magic Blarney Stone with its traditional power of conferring eloquence on those who kiss it, are world famous. Cork City has been designated European Capital of Culture for 2005.
12. The Ring of Kerry is part of the mystical & unspoilt Ireland that has attracted visitors for hundreds of years. It's spectacular beauty is beyond question and it is a natural centre for outdoor pursuits including golf, watersports , cycling, walking, riding and the very best fishing for salmon & trout. The Ring of Kerry has some of the finest beaches in Europe that provide all the facilities for a traditional seaside holiday.
13. The Gap of Dunloe is a wild and rugged gap excavated by forging ice flows during the last ice age.