Village of glengarriff
Glengarriff is a small seaside village positioned on Ring of Beara surrounded by high rugged mountains pocked with old bogs being farmed for peat. Notable among local attractions are the Italian Gardens on Garnish Island, which may be visited by boat trip. Offering a broad view of the surrounding area, the round Martello tower on the island was built to guard against a threatened Napoleonic invasion that never materialized.
Glengarriff is the ideal location from which to explore Beara. The Gulf Stream, and the micro-climate allows for lush vegetation, with harbors, coves and colorful towns.
In the nearby Glengarriff Forest is the glen that gave Glengarriff its name, (loosely translated as: rough glen) containing some of the oldest and most extensive oak and birch groves left in Ireland. A short but steep trail leads up to Lady Bantry's Lookout, offering a stunning vista of Glengarriff and the west Cork area. Also of interest are the Blue Pool lagoon, nearby Barley Lake and the historic Eccles Hotel. Walking trails in the area are extensive, kayaking on the bay is regularly scheduled, and live music is frequently available in the evenings at local pubs, particularly during the tourist season. Glengarriff also offers shops, art galleries, pubs, restaurants & other services.
Points of Interest
The Wild Atlantic Way is an amazing journey of soaring cliffs and buzzing towns and cities, of hidden beaches and epic bays. You can drive it from end-to-end, or spend an entire day taking it all in with small doses to fully appreciate a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The Ring of Kerry, a circular loop that pairs overwhelming natural beauty with immersive heritage attractions, is a must. Along this 179km route you will pass through vast glacial valleys (Moll’s Gap), a UNESCO World Heritage site, and travel along one of the most photographed coasts on the entire island.
Links
A don’t miss close encounter with the oceans most wonderful creatures
West Cork Sailing and Powerboat Centre
Sailing courses/trips, Kayaking, Canoeing etc Sail and stay packages available at Casey’s Hotel
The Beara Peninsula is steeped in myths & legends. The mountains & valleys are rich in archaeological sites such as stone circles, wedge graves & other relics from the past.
A magnificently located 9 hole course bounded by Oak Forests and the bay.
With your guide you can explore the mountains, the glens, the rivers & the ancient woodlands.
The Ewe Gallery & sculpture garden
Experience Irelands most unique sculpture garden & gallery in a spectacular forest waterfall oasis.
Take the Harbour Queen Ferry 20 minute sail to Garnish Island known to horticulturists & lovers of trees & shrubs all around the world as an island garden of great beauty.