The unspoiled Ring of Beara abounds in historical and archaeological sites and spectacular views. The area id dotted with stone circles, alignments and gallauns.

Leave Montrose and head over to Kenmare via Molls Gap and Ladies View. From the picturesque town of Kenmare head south, passing through Bonane and head literally through the Caha Mountains where ‘The Tunnels’ have been created. On the way downhill to Glengariff there are spectacular views of Bantry Bay withgarnish Island in the distance. It is well worth taking a boat trip from Glengariff to Garnish Island to see the world famous tropical gardens.

From Glengariff head west through Adrigole. On the right is Hungry Hill made famous by Dauphine De Maurrier in her novel of the same name, in which she describes the harsh life in the coppermines, the remnants of which can be seen in the area. You will then head towards Castletownbere one of Ireland’s largest fishing villages and you will see Bere Island in the distance. West of Castletoenbere why not visit the ruins of the castle of the O’ Sullivan Bere famous for his “wonderous Winter’s march” from Beara to Leitrim in 1603. Beside this is Dunboy Castle or Puxleys Mansion of the nineteenth century home of the Puxley family who made their fortune in the copper mines in Allihies.

Heading west and down into Allihies with its copper and zinc mines, you can see to your left the Skelligs and the Bull rock lighthouse. You will then follow the road through Urhan where the film “Falling for a dancer” was filmed. Then into the colourful village of Eyries, the home of the “Hag of Beara”. Beyond the village is the tallest ogham stone in Ireland. Continuing on into Ardgroom village, you keep the “wild Atlantic” to your left as you head down into Lauragh’s leafy greenery and back to Kenmare via Tousist passing the Clonee lakes and their fishing boats On your left you will see Dinish Island and the shoreline opposite is the Iveragh Peninsula.

We also recommend doing “The Healy’s Pass” which is half way along the ring. You can do it from Lauragh or Adrigole. The climb up though the narrow winding road is breathtaking and you will be rewarded with some of the most beautiful views in the world when you get to the top.