Waterville village is as steeped in water as it is steeped in history. Waterville was a favourite holiday destination of Charlie Chaplin who, in times past, could be found in The Butler Arms Hotel. In commemoration, a statue was erected in the centre of town and serves as a focal point for the annual Charlie Chaplin Comedy Film Festival.
The local area welcomed the first transatlantic cable in 1865, connecting Heart’s Content in Newfoundland and Valentia Island to the west of Waterville.
Waterville sits on the Ring of Kerry, a 179 kilometer-long circular tourist route that connects the village to Killarney, Kenmare, Sneem, Glenbeigh, Killorglin, Cahersiveen, and Caherdaniel.
Notable locations include Valentia Island, Staigue stone fort, and Derrynane House, home of the famous Irish national figurehead Daniel O’Connell. Killarney National Park is an area of outstanding natural beauty that is popular with hikers and walkers.