Slow Tourism
I first opened The Old Monastery eight years ago while studying History of Art and Architecture at Trinity College Dublin. What started as a summer project quickly became something far more meaningful. I ran the guesthouse for three summers until the pandemic brought everything to a halt.
Before this, I’d spent time interning in fashion — but as I learned more about the climate crisis, I realised I couldn’t continue down a path that ignored the urgent need for change. That’s when my values shifted, and with them, my vision for this place.
In 2023, I became a Climate Ambassador with An Taisce and was honoured to receive an Outstanding Achievement Award for my work promoting slow tourism. Through a campaign across social and mainstream media, we interviewed over 100 locals in support of the South Kerry Greenway, which has since been approved. That same year, I cycled 2,400km along the Wild Atlantic Way, raising €13,000 for youth mental health charity Jigsaw, while also raising awareness around climate anxiety and sustainable travel in partnership with the Conscious Cup Campaign.
I’ve since studied Furniture Design and Making and have returned to The Old Monastery with a renewed commitment to sustainability. There are no plastic bottles here — just slices of handmade Skellig Soaps, solid shampoo bars from a local maker, and even tissue paper made from recycled tetra packs. Breakfast is vegetarian and vegan, made from scratch each morning using seasonal, local produce.
You’ll find fresh brown bread, slow-roasted tomatoes and hummus, overnight oats with homemade compote, Irish oat milk, local jams, and excellent coffee. This love for simple, nourishing food is in my roots — my mother runs Dublin’s Farmhouse Café and Bakery, where much of the produce comes from our family farm.
We keep energy use low by rejecting one-night stays, drying all laundry naturally with eco detergents, and sourcing cleaning products through refill systems at local shops. My aim is to operate as close to zero waste as possible.
But sustainability, to me, also means sharing resources and supporting others in the community. Guests are invited to join a WhatsApp group where I post about local events — from kayaking and boat tours to yoga, gigs, and Irish language nights. I’m always on hand at breakfast with tips for the day, and I use our Instagram @theoldmonasterycahersiveen to share updates from the people and businesses that make this town special.
Slow tourism isn’t just about going slowly — it’s about going with care, with intention, and with respect for the place you’re visiting. That’s the experience I hope to offer here.
