The Bottom Line
Though you will be only a few miles south of the more famous Ring of Kerry (as the crow flies), you are entering a different world on the Beara Peninsula. You are still in Ireland's Southwest, but away from the main rush of tourists. And trucks carrying fresh fish will more likely be your fellow travelers than busloads of vacationers. The Beara Peninsula has not yet been totally discovered by mainstream tourism and retained a rural charm that has been modernized and polished to death in other places. The peninsula still has narrow roads, but they make for nostalgic (if slow) travel.
Pros
- Unspoilt coastal landscapes and islands as well as high hills await the visitor.
- The Beara Peninsula is less overrun by tourists than the nearby Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula.
- Dursey Island features the unique cable car service for visitors (and cows).
Cons
- Minor roads can be demanding on the driver.
Description
- Remote peninsula stretching out into the Atlantic Ocean, its main town being Castletownbere.
- Both Dursey and Bere Island are a walker's paradise - the latter is reached by ferry, the former by cable car.
- Hillwalkers can enjoy the Healy Pass and Hungry Hill.
Guide Review - Beara Peninsula (Counties Kerry and Cork)
Less famous than the Dingle Peninsula or the Ring of Kerry, the Beara Peninsula has long been regarded as a "secret" among tourists.
Allihies
Now a small, sleepy village, but once a thriving mining community - copper was won from the ground up to the Second World War. The remnants, old chimneys and colorful spoil-heaps, are still to be found. Explorers take care - there are numerous unsecure and deep mineshafts.Bere Island
Once part of the extensive British naval base with strong fortifications. Accessible by ferry only and ideal for long walks with ever-changing views. Overnight stays are possible.Castletownbere
Also known as Baile Chaisleáin Bhéarra this is one of Ireland's busiest fishing ports. A small town between the mountains and the sea, offering good seafood, a history of rebellion and smuggling (French brandy a speciliaty) and the McCarthey's Bar of literary fame, complete with an authentic matchmaking booth.Dunboy Castle
Situated on a headland near Castletownbere, this castle was the site of an epic last stand of Irish against English and a subsequent massacre.Dursey Island
The long island stretching south-westerly can only be reached by boat or ... cable car. A gaudily painted cabin designed for three passengers (plus one cow) swings and sways across a treacherous stretch of water. The island itself is perfect for solitary walks.Eyeries
A picture-book Irish village.Healy Pass
Leading through the Caha Mountains and connecting Lauragh with Adrigole via the R574, this pass offers stunning views of the peninsula and Bantry Bay.Hungry Hill
The highest mountain on the Beara Peninsula at nearly 2.300 feet, a favorite with energetic hillwalkers.Puxley Manor
Located near Dunboy Castle, the stately home of the local Puxley family has be re-built as a luxury hotel.
