Family Adventure on the Beara Peninsula

Art, Oysters, and Irish Cheer

Today was a day of contrasts and delightful discoveries here on the Beara Peninsula. We started with art, moved onto oysters, and ended with a hearty dose of Irish cheer. It's amazing how much this little corner of Ireland has to offer, and I'm so glad I got to experience it with my family.

Our first stop of the day was The Ewe Experience, a place I'd heard whispers about but wasn't quite prepared for. Imagine a garden, but one where nature and art entwine so seamlessly that you can't tell where one begins and the other ends. It was just a short drive from where we were staying, and even though the weather forecast threatened rain, we decided to risk it. Thankfully, the sun peeked through the clouds just as we arrived, casting a magical glow on the landscape.

The Ewe Experience is unlike any garden I've ever visited. It's not just about flowers and trees; it's an immersive experience that engages all your senses. Sculptures are nestled among the foliage, each telling a story or provoking a thought. Waterfalls cascade down the mountainside, creating a soothing soundtrack to our exploration. Aoife was particularly taken with the sculptures made from recycled materials, a testament to the artist's commitment to sustainable living, something that resonates deeply with me. Even Jan, who usually prefers historical sites, found himself captivated by the creativity and whimsy of the place.

As we wandered through the themed gardens – the Falling Water Garden, the Timeless Glen, the Environmental Forest, and the Valley of Eden – I couldn't help but feel a sense of childlike wonder. It was like stepping into a fairy tale, a world where imagination knows no bounds. The air was fresh and clean, carrying the scent of damp earth and blooming flowers. It was a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of Warsaw, a reminder of the simple pleasures in life.

The Ewe Experience is a place where art and nature dance together, creating a symphony of beauty that resonates deep within the soul.

Explore the enchanting blend of art and nature at The Ewe Experience in Glengarriff, Co. Cork, a captivating natural history museum for all ages.

After our artistic adventure, our stomachs started to rumble, so we headed towards Castletownbere for lunch. O'Carroll's Cove Restaurant & Bar was our choice for breakfast, but since we started the day at The Ewe Experience, we needed a place for lunch. Lynch's on the Pier seemed like the perfect spot, right on the waterfront. The reviews I'd read promised fresh seafood and stunning views, and it certainly didn't disappoint. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the day's catch. We managed to snag a table by the window, overlooking the harbor.

I opted for the goat cheese salad, while Jan, ever the traditionalist, went for the classic fish and chips. Aoife, always the adventurous one, tried the salmon. Each dish was a testament to the freshness of the ingredients, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. The seafood was so fresh it practically jumped off the plate. As we savored our meal, we watched the fishing boats bobbing in the harbor, imagining the journey from sea to table. It was a truly authentic Irish experience.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to take a detour to Killarney. I know it's a bit of a drive from the Beara Peninsula, but I'd heard so much about it that I couldn't resist. Plus, Aoife was keen to see the town that hosts the Ireland Bikefest, even though it was just a memory from the past weekend. The drive itself was breathtaking, winding through rolling hills and past sparkling lakes. The landscape was so green and lush, it felt like we were driving through a postcard.


Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Killarney, the gem of County Kerry, where adventure and tradition come together.

Killarney itself was charming, a bustling town with a vibrant atmosphere. We strolled through the streets, admiring the colorful shopfronts and listening to the lively chatter of the locals. There was a buzz about the town, perhaps a lingering energy from the recent Bikefest. I could almost hear the roar of the engines and the thump of the music. We popped into a few shops, picking up souvenirs for friends back in Warsaw. I found a beautiful hand-knitted scarf, a splash of color against my otherwise muted wardrobe. Jan bought a book on Irish history, adding to his ever-growing collection. And Aoife, of course, found a quirky vintage dress that perfectly suited her eclectic style.

As evening approached, we made our way back to the Beara Peninsula, eager to relax and unwind after a busy day. For dinner, we chose The Stables Brasserie & Bar. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with a warm fire crackling in the hearth. We settled into a comfortable corner, ready to enjoy a hearty meal and a pint of Guinness.


Experience exceptional local cuisine at The Stables Brasserie & Bar in Kenmare - where taste meets tradition amidst stunning natural beauty.

The Stables Brasserie & Bar was the perfect way to end our day. The food was delicious, the service was friendly, and the atmosphere was just right. I opted for the rump of lamb, while Jan, again, had the fish. Aoife tried the pork tomahawk. Each dish was a testament to the chef's skill and creativity. The lamb was tender and flavorful, the fish was crispy and fresh, and the pork was succulent and satisfying. We savored every bite, washing it down with a perfectly poured pint of Guinness.

After dinner, we ventured to Murphy Pub Bar for a nightcap. The pub was small and cozy, with a traditional Irish feel. The bartender was friendly and welcoming, eager to share stories and jokes. We chatted with locals and tourists alike, learning about the history and culture of the Beara Peninsula. It was a truly authentic Irish experience, one that I'll cherish forever.


Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Murphy Pub Bar in Adrigole, Co. Cork, where local brews and stunning landscapes await.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can still hear the echoes of laughter and music, the taste of fresh seafood and perfectly poured Guinness. Today was a day of contrasts and delightful discoveries, a day that reminded me of the beauty and charm of the Beara Peninsula. And as I look ahead to tomorrow, I'm filled with anticipation for what adventures await. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Bantry House and The Mare's Tail Waterfall before our trip comes to an end. I can't wait to share those experiences with you all. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of exploration and adventure.

One thing I've learned on this trip is that Ireland is more than just a place; it's a feeling. It's the warmth of the people, the beauty of the landscape, the richness of the culture. It's a place that gets under your skin and stays with you long after you've left. And as I prepare to leave the Beara Peninsula, I know that a part of me will always remain here, wandering through the gardens, savoring the seafood, and raising a glass in the local pub.