The Skelligs

The Skelligs

The Skelligs region encompasses an area to the west of the Ring of Kerry between Cahersiveen and Waterville. It comprises Valentia Island, the Skellig Isles, Puffin Island and the mainland south of Valentia Island and north of Ballinskelligs Bay, including the towns of Portmagee and Ballinskelligs.

The Skelligs are two steep sided lumps of rock rising majestically from the sea and mainly inhabited by colonies of seabirds as well as Peregrine Falcons and Choughs. The larger island, Great Skellig or Skellig Michael is a World Heritage Site, the location of a well preserved 6th century monastry in which Christian monks dwelt for approximately 600 years. Little Skellig, closed to the public, is home to 27,000 pairs of Gannets, the second largest colony in the world. The Skelligs lie some 8 miles from the mainland. Boat trips generally operate from April to October and leave from Portmagee, Valentia, Cahirciveen, Derrynane and Ballinskelligs.

Valentia Island is joined to the mainland via a bridge and is also accessible by ferry, sailing from Reenard near Cahersiveen. It is an interesting island, displaying many moods and outstanding natural beauty. To the west the dramatic cliffs of Bray Head prevail against the Atlantic Ocean and offer outstanding views of the Kerry coastline. The shores are washed by the Gulf Stream so the climate is mild, hence the splendiferous gardens at Glanleam House which are open to the public. Protected from the wind and frost, the gardens are stocked with plants from the southern hemisphere, a unique collection planted in the 19th century. Knightstown is the main centre of population on the island, named after the Knights of Kerry, an hereditary Anglo-Irish knighthood.

Portmagee, a quite and sleepy fishing village, is named after a famous smuggler, Captain Theobald Magee. Close by is the perfect beach, Reencaheragh Strand and the harbour is the main departure point for the Skellig Islands. The village is renowned for its fine restaurants, serving fish straight from the boats, and its traditional pubs.

Ballinskelligs boasts miles of excellent sandy beaches and is a mecca for surfers and all forms of watersports. It is an ideal base for anglers, divers, hill walkers, cyclists and those who enjoy pony trekking.

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Visitor Attractions

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Attractions and things to do.

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Golf

There are over 20 golf courses in Co. Kerry, some championship courses, more than enough for the ardent golfer. Close by courses are:

• Waterville Golf Links ~ Phone 066 947 4102
• Skelligs Bay Golf Club ~ Phone 066 947 4133

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Fishing

Some fine sea fishing is available locally and good lake fishing can be had on Lough Currane and Derriana. Ghillies and boats may be hired. For sea fishing try any of the contacts below:

• Ocean Quests Fishing ~ Phone 066 947 6214
• Valentia Fishing ~ Phone 066 947 6420
• Valentia Island Sea Angling ~ Phone 066 947 6300
• KB Fishing ~ Phone 066 947 4942

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Skellig Isles Trips

The Skellig Isles lay some 8 miles to the west of Bolus Head. Boat trips operate from Portmagee, Valentia, Cahirciveen, Derrynane and Ballinskelligs, usually running between April and October. Explore the home of 6th century monks and be amazed by the colonies of seabirds and underwater life. Watch out for Porpoises, Minke Whales, Basking Sharks, Common and Bottlenose Dolphins. Some of the old seadogs who run boat trips are listed below:

• Des Lavelle Skellig Trips ~ Phone 066 947 6214
• Skelligs Tours ~ Phone 066 947 6351
• Skellig Boat Trips ~ Phone 066 947 9182
• Kenneth Roddy ~ Phone 066 947 9924
• Skelligs Rock Trips ~ Phone 066 947 5470
• Murphy's Sea Cruise ~ Phone 066 947 1909

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Watersports

The waters in this area are ideal for surfing, kayaking, sailboarding, kite surfing and sailing. If you are a novice then the Skelligs Watersports School is worth contacting:

• Skelligs Watersports ~ Phone 087 917 8808

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Horse Riding

A great way to explore the locality without too much effort. Good mounts are available at various Equestrian centres.

• Heatherhill Stables ~ Phone 066 947 9318
• Beebane Riding Stables ~ Phone 066 947 4391
• Eagle Rock Equestrian Centre ~ Phone 066 947 5145

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Other Websites for the Ring of Kerry

www.theskelligs.com is part of Ring of Kerry Tourism

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Booking Accommodation

Please be aware that if you book the holiday rental or B&B accommodation on this website you are dealing directly with the owners. The is a massive benefit to them as they rely on income from visitors and would otherwise have to pay commission if you use a booking website.