Looking to explore more of Ireland? Trying to find the perfect 2020 staycation location? The Beara Peninsula is calling.
The Beara Peninsula, otherwise known as ‘The Beara Way’ is located in South West Ireland nestled between Kenmare and Bantry Bay, County Cork where the number of local sheep quite often exceeds people.
The scenic drive along The Beara Way is on the Wild Atlantic Way route and will provide you with stunning views of the Cork, Kerry mountains and the Atlantic coast. The peninsula is a nature-lovers haven with a wide variety of signposted loop walks, cycle routes, hikes, beaches and lakes to explore. As you venture along the peninsula, you will pass through the picturesque, sleepy villages of Eyeries, Allihies and Ardgroom where the colourful houses are hard to miss and add wonderful character.
The Glenbeg lake of Ardgroom
The Glenbeg lake of Ardgroom is a hidden gem, located just a 5 minute drive from the village and well worth a visit. You can either walk along by the water or a hike up the mountain surrounding the lake for stunning views extending all the way to Kenmare Bay.
Hike time: 2 hours (up and down)
Difficulty: Medium
Eyeries
The picturesque village of Eyeries is the second village on the Peninsula where the houses are painted the colours of the rainbow with mountain views, walks and beaches dotted along the coastline.
Allihies
Allihies is the final village on the peninsula, where you will find the old Berehaven copper mines which date back to the 1800s. Interestingly, the quartz sand left over after extracting the copper ore was carried away by the sea to form the local beach. From the beach you can take a 1 hour coastal loop walk around the rugged coastline for some spectacular views.
For more on exploring County Cork, check out my post ‘Top places to explore in County Cork, Ireland’ here.
