Beara Peninsula Guidebook
Top 5 Sightseeing Spots
The Cailleach Beara, or Hag of Beara. There are many stories about the origin of this rock. In one such particular legend, the rock represents the fossilized remains of the face of the Cailleach Beara, staring out at the ocean and awaiting her husband Manannán, God of the Sea, to return to her.
Located in Gortgarriff, just 800m (3 minute drive) from the residence.
The Hag of Beara
The Cailleach Beara, or Hag of Beara. There are many stories about the origin of this rock. In one such particular legend, the rock represents the fossilized remains of the face of the Cailleach Beara, staring out at the ocean and awaiting her husband Manannán, God of the Sea, to return to her.
Located in Gortgarriff, just 800m (3 minute drive) from the residence.
The Ballycrovane Ogham Stone is said to be the tallest Ogham stone in Ireland, and possibly even in Europe. It dates back to the Bronze Age, and overlooks the Harbour.
Located in Ballycrovane, just 1km (4 minute drive) from the residence. Please note the stone is located on private farmland, so you may have to pay a small fee to visit the monument.
Ballycrovane Ogham Stone
The Ballycrovane Ogham Stone is said to be the tallest Ogham stone in Ireland, and possibly even in Europe. It dates back to the Bronze Age, and overlooks the Harbour.
Located in Ballycrovane, just 1km (4 minute drive) from the residence. Please note the stone is located on private farmland, so you may have to pay a small fee to visit the monument.
There were originally 4 Martello Towers built on Bere Island at the beginning of the 19th Century, however two were subsequently destroyed. Climb up to the tower to see stunning sea views of both sides, and well as an overlook of Bere all of Bere Island.
Located on Bere Island, 22km (53 minutes between driving and the ferry) from the residence.
Cloughland Martello Tower
There were originally 4 Martello Towers built on Bere Island at the beginning of the 19th Century, however two were subsequently destroyed. Climb up to the tower to see stunning sea views of both sides, and well as an overlook of Bere all of Bere Island.
Located on Bere Island, 22km (53 minutes between driving and the ferry) from the residence.
One of the stone circles in the Beara Peninsula, this is now comprised of 12 stones, 8 of which stand upright. There were believed to be 15 stones originally. This is an amazing spot with a lovely view of Hungry Hill.
Located just outside the town of Castletownbere, 16km (23 minute drive) from the residence.
Derreenataggart Stone Circle
One of the stone circles in the Beara Peninsula, this is now comprised of 12 stones, 8 of which stand upright. There were believed to be 15 stones originally. This is an amazing spot with a lovely view of Hungry Hill.
Located just outside the town of Castletownbere, 16km (23 minute drive) from the residence.
Top 5 Walking Areas for Gorgeous Views
Dunboy Castle, also referred to as Puxley Mansion, is a ruined 15th century castle just outside the town of Castletownbere. The area around this castle has stunning walking paths and gorgeous scenery.
Located just outside the town of Castletownbere, 17km (25 minute drive) from the residence.
Dunboy Castle
Dunboy Castle, also referred to as Puxley Mansion, is a ruined 15th century castle just outside the town of Castletownbere. The area around this castle has stunning walking paths and gorgeous scenery.
Located just outside the town of Castletownbere, 17km (25 minute drive) from the residence.
This island is one of the most stunning areas in the Beara Peninsula, renowned for its gardens. Stuctures in the gardens include a clock tower, a Greciam temple, a Martello tower, and an Italian casita.
Located in Glengarriff Bay, 45km (45 minutes between driving and ferry) from the residence.
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Garinish Island
This island is one of the most stunning areas in the Beara Peninsula, renowned for its gardens. Stuctures in the gardens include a clock tower, a Greciam temple, a Martello tower, and an Italian casita.
Located in Glengarriff Bay, 45km (45 minutes between driving and ferry) from the residence.
This park is described as a "beautiful 19th century woodland garden with paths winding through rare topical plants and opening onto sea views". The area is 60acres and the scenery is incomparable.
Located in Killmackillogue Harbour, 18km (21 minute drive) from the residence.
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Derreen Gardens
This park is described as a "beautiful 19th century woodland garden with paths winding through rare topical plants and opening onto sea views". The area is 60acres and the scenery is incomparable.
Located in Killmackillogue Harbour, 18km (21 minute drive) from the residence.
This is a spectacular woodland area, covering 300hectares and perfect for walking and admiring the views. This area is also famous for eagle sightings, so keep your eyes peeled!
Located just outside the town of Glengarriff, just 47km (49 minute drive) from the residence.
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Glengarriff Woods Nature Reserve
This is a spectacular woodland area, covering 300hectares and perfect for walking and admiring the views. This area is also famous for eagle sightings, so keep your eyes peeled!
Located just outside the town of Glengarriff, just 47km (49 minute drive) from the residence.
This stunning walking trail passes 6 of the seven mine sites around Allihies, so you can follow in the footsteps of the miners. Two of the engine houses also still stand and you can also see the remains of other mine-related buildings such as powder houses. The Allihies Copper Mines Museum and Cafe is located in the village, and a map of the trail is available at the counter.
Located in Allihies, 22 km (34 minute drive) from the residence.
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Allihies Copper Mine Museum
This stunning walking trail passes 6 of the seven mine sites around Allihies, so you can follow in the footsteps of the miners. Two of the engine houses also still stand and you can also see the remains of other mine-related buildings such as powder houses. The Allihies Copper Mines Museum and Cafe is located in the village, and a map of the trail is available at the counter.
Located in Allihies, 22 km (34 minute drive) from the residence.
Top 5 Food Establishments
Suitable for breakfast and lunch.
Opening hours Monday to Saturday 9:30am to 5:00pm.
Phone Number: (027) 71394
Located in Castletownbere, 8.6km (19 minute drive) from the residence.
Lynch's on the Pier
Suitable for breakfast and lunch.
Opening hours Monday to Saturday 9:30am to 5:00pm.
Phone Number: (027) 71394
Located in Castletownbere, 8.6km (19 minute drive) from the residence.
Suitable for breakfast and lunch.
Phone Number: (086) 1732606
Open Wednesday to Saturday 10:00am to 5:00pm, and Sunday 11:00am to 4:00pm.
Located in Castletownbere, 8.6km (20 minute drive) from the residence.
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The Tea Room
Bank PlaceSuitable for breakfast and lunch.
Phone Number: (086) 1732606
Open Wednesday to Saturday 10:00am to 5:00pm, and Sunday 11:00am to 4:00pm.
Located in Castletownbere, 8.6km (20 minute drive) from the residence.
Suitable for lunch and dinner.
Opening hours Monday to Thursday 12:00pm to 8:30pm and Friday to Saturday 12:00pm to 10:00pm.
Phone Number: (027) 70031
Located in Castletownbere, 8.6km (19 minute drive) from the residence.
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Breen's Lobster Bar
2 Bank PlSuitable for lunch and dinner.
Opening hours Monday to Thursday 12:00pm to 8:30pm and Friday to Saturday 12:00pm to 10:00pm.
Phone Number: (027) 70031
Located in Castletownbere, 8.6km (19 minute drive) from the residence.
Suitable for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Opening hours Sunday and Thursday 10:am to 6:00pm, and Friday and Saturday 10:00am to 8:00pm.
Phone number (083) 0933547
Located in Eyeries Village, 6.3km (11 minute drive) from the residence.
Eyeries Rocks Café
Suitable for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Opening hours Sunday and Thursday 10:am to 6:00pm, and Friday and Saturday 10:00am to 8:00pm.
Phone number (083) 0933547
Located in Eyeries Village, 6.3km (11 minute drive) from the residence.
Suitable for lunch and dinner.
Opening hours 5:00pm to 10:00pm Monday to Saturday and 1:00pm to 10:00pm Sunday.
Phone number (027) 60555
Located in Adrigole, 34km (37 minute drive) from the residence.
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The Wild Atlantic Bar
Suitable for lunch and dinner.
Opening hours 5:00pm to 10:00pm Monday to Saturday and 1:00pm to 10:00pm Sunday.
Phone number (027) 60555
Located in Adrigole, 34km (37 minute drive) from the residence.
Top 5 Family Activities
This is an amazing opportunity to rent kayaks and canoes, and adventure in Adrigole Harbour with the seals. Booking in advance is required, visit https://wildatlanticwildlife.ie/contact_us/ or email wildatlanticwildlife@gmail.com with any questions.
Located in Adrigole, 17km (37 minute drive) from the residence.
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West Cork Sailing and Powerboating Centre/Wild Atlantic Wildlife
This is an amazing opportunity to rent kayaks and canoes, and adventure in Adrigole Harbour with the seals. Booking in advance is required, visit https://wildatlanticwildlife.ie/contact_us/ or email wildatlanticwildlife@gmail.com with any questions.
Located in Adrigole, 17km (37 minute drive) from the residence.
This adventure centre provides tonnes of fun for the whole family! From kayaking, paintballing, crazy golf, archery, obstacle courses and cruise boating options and more! There are also dining options and a playground for children!
Visit https://staroutdoors.ie/adventures/ to book, or call +353 (0)64 6641222 with any questions!
Located outside Kenmare, 34km (40 minute drive) from the residence.
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Star Outdoors Adventure Centre
This adventure centre provides tonnes of fun for the whole family! From kayaking, paintballing, crazy golf, archery, obstacle courses and cruise boating options and more! There are also dining options and a playground for children!
Visit https://staroutdoors.ie/adventures/ to book, or call +353 (0)64 6641222 with any questions!
Located outside Kenmare, 34km (40 minute drive) from the residence.
A great Traditional Irish experience, Molly Gallivans Farm and Cottage is a fantastic trip for the whole family. Children can enjoy seeing the animals and the farm area, and there are also guided tours and even a craft shop! There are guided walks of the Sheen Valley, there are dining options, and even Irish Evening experiences!
Pre-booking is necessary, so visit https://mollygallivans.com/ for more information and booking options!
Located outside Kenmare, 53km (54 minute drive) from the residence.
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Posjetiteljski centar Molly Gallivans
A great Traditional Irish experience, Molly Gallivans Farm and Cottage is a fantastic trip for the whole family. Children can enjoy seeing the animals and the farm area, and there are also guided tours and even a craft shop! There are guided walks of the Sheen Valley, there are dining options, and even Irish Evening experiences!
Pre-booking is necessary, so visit https://mollygallivans.com/ for more information and booking options!
Located outside Kenmare, 53km (54 minute drive) from the residence.
If the weather turns sour, or you're looking for an evening activity for the family, the cinema is always a good option! Our closest one is Cinemax Bantry, and you can visit http://cinemaxbantry.com/bantry/now/ for more information.
Located in Bantry, 35km (1 hour 7 minute drive) from the residence.
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Cinemax 3
If the weather turns sour, or you're looking for an evening activity for the family, the cinema is always a good option! Our closest one is Cinemax Bantry, and you can visit http://cinemaxbantry.com/bantry/now/ for more information.
Located in Bantry, 35km (1 hour 7 minute drive) from the residence.
A great option for family fun, especially if it's raining, the swimming pool in Kenmare Bay Hotel is wonderful! There is also a jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, and a gym, so there is something for everyone! Visit https://www.kenmarebayhotel.com/bay-health-club for more information!
Located in Kenmare, 43km (48 minute drive) from the residence.
Bay Health Club
1 Gortamullen Holiday HomesA great option for family fun, especially if it's raining, the swimming pool in Kenmare Bay Hotel is wonderful! There is also a jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, and a gym, so there is something for everyone! Visit https://www.kenmarebayhotel.com/bay-health-club for more information!
Located in Kenmare, 43km (48 minute drive) from the residence.
Top 5 Beaches/Swimming Spots
This stunning beach is ideal for both relaxing on the sand and swimming. The sandiest beach option in Beara, and surrounded by stunning views!
Located in Allihies, 12km (36 minute drive) from the residence.
Ballydonegan Beach
This stunning beach is ideal for both relaxing on the sand and swimming. The sandiest beach option in Beara, and surrounded by stunning views!
Located in Allihies, 12km (36 minute drive) from the residence.
This beach is more ideal for swimming as it is not very sandy, but is still a lovely spot. There is also a playground for children!
Located in Urhan, 11km (17 minute drive) from the residence.
Travara Beach
This beach is more ideal for swimming as it is not very sandy, but is still a lovely spot. There is also a playground for children!
Located in Urhan, 11km (17 minute drive) from the residence.
A lovely spot for relaxing on sand or swimming. This beach is not far from Ballydonegan but much smaller.
Located in Garnish, 35km (43 minute drive) from the residence.
Garnish Beach
A lovely spot for relaxing on sand or swimming. This beach is not far from Ballydonegan but much smaller.
Located in Garnish, 35km (43 minute drive) from the residence.
While this beach is far away compared to the others, if your looking to find a lovely beach option to spend the whole day, this is one of the nicest options you could find!
Located in Ballyrisode, 92km (1 hour 33 minute drive) from the residence.
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Ballyrisode Beach
While this beach is far away compared to the others, if your looking to find a lovely beach option to spend the whole day, this is one of the nicest options you could find!
Located in Ballyrisode, 92km (1 hour 33 minute drive) from the residence.
This beach option is the furthest away on our list, but is easily the nicest option! Easily one of the nicest beaches in Ireland, this is totally worth the journey if you're looking to spend all day at the beach.
If you're also considering visiting Mizen Head, this beach is only 3.8km (7 minute drive) away from it.
Located between Goleen and Mizen Head, 103km (1 hour 49 minute drive) from the residence.
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Barley Cove Beach
This beach option is the furthest away on our list, but is easily the nicest option! Easily one of the nicest beaches in Ireland, this is totally worth the journey if you're looking to spend all day at the beach.
If you're also considering visiting Mizen Head, this beach is only 3.8km (7 minute drive) away from it.
Located between Goleen and Mizen Head, 103km (1 hour 49 minute drive) from the residence.
Top 5 Pubs
Helens Bar is a fantastic place with indoor and outdoor seating options, perfect for when the weather is nice! There is also food served here, and it's delicious!
Located in Killmackillogue, 12km (27 minute drive) from the residence.
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Helens bar and bed and breakfast
Helens Bar is a fantastic place with indoor and outdoor seating options, perfect for when the weather is nice! There is also food served here, and it's delicious!
Located in Killmackillogue, 12km (27 minute drive) from the residence.
Affectionately known as Twomey's, this pub is lovely and offers both indoor seating and outdoor (sheltered) seating.
Located in Castletownbere, 13.8km (20 minutes) from the residence.
Ivy Bar
Bank PlaceAffectionately known as Twomey's, this pub is lovely and offers both indoor seating and outdoor (sheltered) seating.
Located in Castletownbere, 13.8km (20 minutes) from the residence.
Affectionately referred to as Mac's, this pub has a lovely ambiance and also have indoor and outdoor seating. Food is also served here.
Located in Castletownbere, 3.8km (20 minute drive) from the residence.
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MacCarthy's Bar
The SquareAffectionately referred to as Mac's, this pub has a lovely ambiance and also have indoor and outdoor seating. Food is also served here.
Located in Castletownbere, 3.8km (20 minute drive) from the residence.
Causkey's is a lovely option closer to home in the nearest village. There is also a lovely view of the bay area from here.
Located in Eyeries village, 6km (10 minute drive) from the residence.
Causkeys Bar
Causkey's is a lovely option closer to home in the nearest village. There is also a lovely view of the bay area from here.
Located in Eyeries village, 6km (10 minute drive) from the residence.
Shea's is another lovely pub located in the nearest village, with indoor seating and a small outdoor area out the back.
Located in Eyeries village, 6.1km (10 minute drive) from the residence.
O' Shea's Bar
Shea's is another lovely pub located in the nearest village, with indoor seating and a small outdoor area out the back.
Located in Eyeries village, 6.1km (10 minute drive) from the residence.