Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve

The Kerry UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve is located along the Skellig Coast on western end of the Iveragh Peninsula in South Kerry and is Irelands first International Dark Sky Reserve. Part of a worldwide dark sky conservation programme, which aims to restore the night time environment and protect areas against light pollution and is the only gold tier reserve in the Northern Hemisphere. This corner of Kerry is perfectly shielded from light pollution, being surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, and some of Ireland's highest mountains. Become a fellow stargazer and explore dark sky places of the reserve with this online map.

With our dark skies we look forward to bright futures!

The Skellig Coast Dark Sky Festival takes place annual each spring, a community-led festival is not-for-profit and run by a local charity, Comhchoiste Ghaeltacht Uíbh Ráthaigh. A weekend of celestial wonders and astronomical adventures perfect for stargazers of all ages.

The Dark Sky festival programme includes fascinating line-up of events that take place at various view points along the Skellig Coast in South Kerry. Speakers at the festival include marine biologists, zoologists, environmental scientists, lighting engineers, and an orbital dynamics specialist. The festival's esteemed speakers share their passion for their work and the Dark Sky while also advising festival goers on our role in protecting the environment. For more information on the Dark Sky Reserve & Dark Sky Festival visit Discover Iveragh.