With summer nearly upon us, thousands of tourists will be setting sail for Kerry, gravitating towards its world-renowned natural wonders – the Gap of Dunlow, Muckross House, Connor’s Pass and more. However, why confine yourself to tourist blacks-spots? Explore, be adventurous and be open-minded. There are some wonderful Kerry landscapes waiting to be discovered – unspoilt natural environments, villages that have preserved their local character and walking trials that have barely been trod on. Perfect for the more adventure-minded tourist, the seeker of undiscovered worlds!
Glanteenassig, Tralee, Co. Kerry
The Gaelic name Glanteenassig literarily translates as “Land of Waterfalls” and it’s an apt name for this land of rocky cliffs, glassy lakes and gushing cataracts. These 450 hectares of woodland and peatland, that spans the dreamy Slieve Mish mountain range, is perfect terrain for sleepy campfires, mountain trials, family picnics, or just an outdoor excursion with friends. Maintained by Coillte, the park includes a carpark, picnic spots and tables, as well as raised platform to ensure ease of access and safety. Misty foothills, lapping lakeshores and dreamy forests – a landscape worth of WB Yates.
The Skellig Ring
The “Skellig Ring” is a winding, scenic trail that spans Unesco celebrated ruins, the birthplace of Daniel O’Connell, Devonian fossils, a transatlantic cable station, state of the art visitor centre, an artisan chocolate factory and several blue-flag beaches. Skellig Michael, with its windswept cliff faces, beehive monastic quarters, and the famous ascending stone steps, is perhaps the route’s most prised destination. However, if you want to go, you better get there quick. The latest Star Wars instalment brought the Skelligs to world-wine attention – the sight of a wizened Luke Skywalker emerging from a beehive hut has wet everyone’s appetite for adventure.
Lough Caragh
Not located on one of the more populous tourist trials, but no less beautiful and spectacular because of it, Lough Caragh, a glassy freshwater tarn, is nestled at the foot of the McGillicuddy Reeks. While a fabulous attraction in its own right, the lough is also a good base for exploring other attractions and sights scattered across the Reeks: Rossbeigh blue-flag beach; Glenbeigh; Ballaghisheen Pass – to name but three. The view of Carrauntoohill and Beenkeragh, Ireland’s first and second highest peaks respectively, enveloped with dissipating fog is something you will never forget.
Its time to reignite your sense of adventure and take in the sights of some of the Kingdom’s rare jewels and of course, its a good thing you know and excellent taxi service that can take you there if you need transportation 🙂 – check out our bespoke tour options.