Skellig Coast

To find yourself on the Skellig Coast is to find yourself nestled within Kerry's International Dark Sky Reserve, surrounded by archaeological sites and spoilt for choice with unique food and drink experiences, history, culture, a stunning natural landscape and spectacular views of the Skellig Islands – of which Skellig Michael / Sceilg Mhicíl is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The islands lie 12km off the coast, and the majestic and dramatic Skellig Michael bursts 218 meters above sea level. On Skellig Michael you will find a remote monastery dated from the 6th century, where despite the exposed seascape monks lived on the Island until the 13th century. The Island is home now to a range of wild birds and animals including puffins, gannets and guillemots.

Part of the wonder for visitors is the ability to follow in the time-worn footsteps of the monks on Skellig Michael dating almost 1,500 years old. There are hundreds of individually carved, winding, stone steps leading up to the monastery. At the top visitors will see six beehive huts where the monks slept, a church dedicated to St. Michael, a walled garden, an early oratory and a cemetery with 22 grave slabs on the grounds. Film fans may recognise Skellig Michael from the Star Wars movies, The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi. Boat tours around the island and drop offs at the Island are available, but note that there is limited capacity and booking is essential.

Along the Skellig Coast, you can explore Valentia Island, with its unique Transatlantic Telegraph Cable experience and Valentia Island Lighthouse visitor centre. The Island is connected to the mainland by a bridge and also accessible by regular car ferry service from Renard Point to Knightstown.

On the Skellig Ring you can enjoy stunning sandy beaches including the Blue Flag Beach at Ballinskelligs, as well as quaint towns and villages to stop in for a snack or driving break. Visitors might enjoy a tour and tasting at the Skellig Chocolate Factory, McGills Brewery, Portmagee Whiskey Experience or indeed venture to the Skellig Six18 Distillery in Cahersiveen.