Waterville, village in Munster, Ireland
Waterville is a small coastal village in County Kerry situated on an isthmus between the Atlantic Ocean and Lough Currane lake. The settlement sits along the famous Ring of Kerry route and features simple architecture, local shops, galleries, and cafes spread through quiet streets with views of both ocean and lake.
The village has welcomed visitors for over 200 years as a coastal retreat, with a long tradition of hospitality and leisure. Charlie Chaplin's regular visits with his family beginning in the late 1950s became a defining moment in its modern history, establishing a cultural connection celebrated ever since.
The name Waterville comes from the Irish word Coireán, meaning 'little cauldron' or 'little whirlpool,' referring to the shape of the nearby bay. The village's connection to Charlie Chaplin, who visited regularly with his family starting in the late 1950s, remains central to local identity, celebrated through a statue and an annual film festival dedicated to his comedy films.
The village serves as a good base for exploring the surrounding area at a relaxed pace, with hotels, guesthouses, supermarkets, a petrol station, and a medical center conveniently available. Many activities are nearby including walking, cycling, golfing, fishing, boat trips, and water sports that suit different interests and energy levels.
Nearby is the Kerry Dark Sky Reserve, the only Silver Reserve in the northern hemisphere, offering exceptional stargazing opportunities on clear nights above the quiet countryside. The village hosts an annual four-day comedy film festival in late August featuring screenings, workshops, street performances, and costume contests celebrating Chaplin's legacy.
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