Oileán Dairbhre
Valentia Island
The lighthouse at Cromwell Point on Valentia Island with Beginish and Doulus Head in the background.
Valentia Island, Oileán Dairbhre, meaning 'isle of oak', is a large island located off the Iveragh peninsula. It is connected to the mainland by a bridge from Portmagee; a ferry also operates to and from Renard on a seasonal basis, which shortens the journey to Cahersiveen.
The spectacular views from Bray Head on Valentia Island with Puffin Island and the Skelligs in the background.
Those arriving by bridge are well-placed to visit Bray Head on the western edge of the island. Here, a Napoleonic-era signal station stands at the peak of a two-kilometre-long walking trail. From the top of Bray Head, you may be lucky enough to spot whales or dolphins in the waters below, or seabirds nesting on the cliffs from late spring. On the hillside, you will find medieval hut sites and old field systems, as well as a variety of birds, lizards, insects and other wildlife.
These footprints were left approximately 385 million years ago by one of the first animals to walk on dry land.
Making your way back around the island, you can explore the history and culture of Valentia from its geological origins 385 million years ago, through its industrial heritage and its time as the home of the Knights of Kerry. Whether you’re interested in seeing the view from high cliffs or exploring the heritage indoors out of the weather, you won’t be short of things to do. There are two villages on Valentia - Chapeltown and Knightstown – both of which offer restaurants, cafés and bars.
Knightstown was home to pioneering marine biologist Maude Delap, and a stroll through the village will take you past many places that featured heavily in her life. Also in the village is the newly refurbished Transatlantic Cable Station which tells the fascinating story of the first telegraph cable laid across the Atlantic Ocean, which linked communication between Europe and America.
Valentia and the Skellig Ring Video
Watch this short video for inspiration and take a look at our itinerary for just some of the many things to do in and around Valentia all year. Valentia is a great base for exploring the sights along the Skellig Ring or to get away from it all on the Wild Atlantic Way. Bicycles are allowed on the seasonal ferry and all attractions on the island are within cycling distance from each other.
Some suggested activities
Find out more about Valentia Island here: https://valentiaisland.ie/
The view from the Valentia Slate Quarry