Family Adventure on the Beara Peninsula

Through Mountain Passes and Woodland Trails

Today, the Beara Peninsula revealed even more of its magic, offering a blend of breathtaking vistas and tranquil escapes. With Jan and Aoife by my side, we embraced a day filled with winding roads, charming discoveries, and the serene beauty of the Irish countryside. It's moments like these that remind me why I started this blog – to share the simple joys of travel and the profound connections we make along the way.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Kenmare Brewhouse. I opted for the traditional Irish breakfast, a plate piled high with sausages, rashers, black and white pudding, and a perfectly fried egg. Jan, ever the pragmatist, chose a simple bowl of porridge, while Aoife indulged in a stack of fluffy pancakes. Fuelled and ready, we set off for the renowned Healy Pass.

The drive to Healy Pass was an experience in itself. The road snaked its way through the mountains, each turn revealing a new and even more stunning vista. The landscape was a patchwork of vibrant greens and browns, dotted with grazing sheep and the occasional whitewashed cottage. As we climbed higher, the air grew crisper, carrying the scent of heather and peat. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer scale of the natural beauty surrounding us. It felt a world away from the bustling streets of Warsaw, and I relished the feeling of being immersed in the tranquility of the Irish countryside.

Reaching the summit of Healy Pass, we parked the car and took a moment to soak in the panoramic views. From here, we could see the rugged coastline stretching out towards the horizon, the shimmering waters of Bantry Bay, and the rolling hills of County Kerry. The wind whipped around us, carrying the cries of seabirds and the distant bleating of sheep. It was a scene that could have been lifted straight from a postcard, and I felt a surge of pride in my Irish heritage.


Discover the stunning natural beauty of Healy Pass in County Cork, a scenic spot perfect for relaxation and breathtaking views.

Sometimes, the most rewarding journeys are not about reaching a destination, but about the experiences and connections made along the way.

After Healy Pass, we decided to embrace a bit of retail therapy at Quill's Woollen Market. The shop was a treasure trove of Irish crafts, from hand-knitted sweaters and woolen scarves to pottery and jewelry. I was immediately drawn to a beautiful Aran sweater, its intricate patterns telling a story of tradition and skill. Aoife, with her keen eye for fashion, found a stylish tweed cap that suited her perfectly. Jan, ever practical, purchased a warm woolen blanket for our home in Warsaw. It will be perfect for those long Polish winters, a cozy reminder of our summer adventure in Ireland.

Lunch beckoned, and we stopped at Murphy's Restaurant, a charming spot in a nearby village. The aroma of freshly caught seafood filled the air, and we eagerly perused the menu. I opted for the seafood chowder, a creamy and flavorful concoction brimming with chunks of salmon, cod, and mussels. Jan chose the classic fish and chips, while Aoife, ever adventurous, tried the pan-fried hake with a lemon butter sauce. As we ate, we chatted about our favorite moments of the trip so far, reminiscing about the colorful houses of Eyeries and the dramatic cliffs of Dursey Island.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we ventured into Pooleen Wood for a leisurely afternoon stroll. The forest was a haven of peace and tranquility, the sunlight filtering through the canopy of leaves, creating dappled patterns on the forest floor. The air was filled with the sounds of birdsong, the rustling of leaves, and the gentle murmur of a nearby stream. As we walked, I pointed out the different species of trees and plants, sharing my knowledge of Irish flora and fauna. Jan, with his background in history, regaled us with tales of ancient Celtic rituals and folklore associated with the woods. Aoife, meanwhile, captured the beauty of the surroundings with her camera, her artistic eye finding beauty in the smallest of details.


Explore the serene Pooleen Wood, a nature reserve in Glengarriff, Co. Cork, filled with lush landscapes, picturesque waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.

Pooleen Wood felt like stepping into another world, far removed from the cares and stresses of everyday life. We wandered along moss-covered paths, crossed babbling brooks, and marveled at the towering trees that had stood for centuries. I felt a deep sense of connection to the land, a feeling that always washes over me whenever I return to Ireland. There's something about the Irish landscape that speaks to my soul, a sense of belonging that transcends time and distance.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at The Crêpeman Crêperie for dinner. It was a delightful end to a day filled with exploration and discovery. I savored a savory crêpe filled with ham, cheese, and mushrooms, while Jan opted for a sweet crêpe with Nutella and bananas. Aoife, ever the foodie, tried a special crêpe with local berries and cream. As we ate, we watched the sun set over the horizon, casting a golden glow over the Beara Peninsula. It was a perfect moment, a fitting end to a perfect day.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit The Ewe Experience, described as Ireland's only interactive sculpture garden, and then head towards Killarney. I'm intrigued by the prospect of seeing art integrated into the natural landscape, and I'm sure Aoife will be in her element, capturing the sculptures through her lens. Jan is looking forward to exploring Killarney, a town steeped in history and culture. I am also looking forward to a pint at Murphy Pub Bar, as listed in tomorrow's itinerary.

As I sit here tonight, reflecting on our adventures, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. The Beara Peninsula has captured our hearts, and I know that we will carry these memories with us long after we return to Warsaw. It's not just about the stunning scenery or the charming villages; it's about the connections we've made, the laughter we've shared, and the memories we've created together. These are the moments that truly matter, the moments that make life worth living. And as I drift off to sleep, I can't help but smile, knowing that tomorrow will bring even more adventures on our Beara Peninsula journey.