Discover the Enchantment of Ballinskelligs Castle
Explore the historic Ballinskelligs Castle in County Kerry, a stunning medieval fortress surrounded by breathtaking coastal views and rich Irish heritage.
Nestled in the scenic beauty of County Kerry, Ballinskelligs Castle invites visitors to explore its rich history and stunning coastal views. This medieval fortress, with its rugged charm and picturesque surroundings, is a must-visit for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in Ireland's heritage. Surrounded by rolling hills and the Atlantic Ocean, the castle offers a unique glimpse into the past, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Ballinskelligs Castle
- Ballinskelligs, Ballinskelligs, Co. Kerry, IE
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven around the castle.
- Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning coastal views.
- Check the local weather before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly.
- Explore the nearby walking trails to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from the town of Portmagee. Take the R565 road heading southwest towards Ballinskelligs. Continue on the R565 for approximately 8 kilometers until you reach the intersection with the R567. Turn left onto the R567 and continue straight for about 2 kilometers. Look for signs directing you to Ballinskelligs Castle. The castle is located in Ballinskelligs village, and you will find parking available near the site. Note that parking may incur a small fee, so be prepared with some change.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, take a bus service from Killarney to Cahersiveen. Once in Cahersiveen, switch to a local bus service heading to Ballinskelligs. Confirm the bus schedule in advance, as services may be limited. The final stop for the bus will be near the village of Ballinskelligs. From the bus stop, you can walk to Ballinskelligs Castle, which is approximately a 15-minute walk through the village. Be sure to check the latest bus fares and schedules to plan your trip effectively.
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Walking
If you are already in Ballinskelligs village, you can easily walk to Ballinskelligs Castle. Start from the center of the village and head towards the coastline. Follow the signs that indicate the direction of the castle. The walk will take you around 10-15 minutes, and you will enjoy beautiful views along the way. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the pathway may have some uneven surfaces.
Discover more about Ballinskelligs Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tobar Fionáin (Holy Well)
5.1 km
Explore Tobar Fionáin, the historic Holy Well in Co. Kerry, a serene retreat steeped in rich Irish spiritual heritage and breathtaking natural beauty.
Donnybrook
9.7 km
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St. Brendan's Well
12.9 km
Experience the tranquility and historical significance of St. Brendan's Well, a sacred site in Co. Kerry, Ireland, renowned for its rich spiritual heritage.
The Old Abbey of the Holy Cross
13.9 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of The Old Abbey of the Holy Cross in Cahersiveen, County Kerry, a hidden gem for culture enthusiasts.
Daniel O'Connell Memorial Church
14.0 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Daniel O'Connell Memorial Church in Cahersiveen, a treasured gem in County Kerry, Ireland.
Cahergal Stone Fort
14.7 km
Explore the ancient Cahergal Stone Fort in County Kerry, a captivating historical landmark surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich history.
Birthplace of Daniel O'Connell, Cahersiveen, Kerry, Ireland
14.9 km
Explore the birthplace of Daniel O'Connell, a key figure in Irish history, set against the stunning backdrop of County Kerry's natural beauty.
Leacanabuaile Ring Fort
14.9 km
Experience the captivating history and breathtaking landscapes at Leacanabuaile Ring Fort, a hidden gem in the heart of Co. Kerry, Ireland.
Top Of The Rock Viewing Platform
15.4 km
Explore the stunning Top of the Rock Viewing Platform in Co. Kerry, where breathtaking views and serene landscapes await every traveler.
Little Skellig
16.3 km
Explore Little Skellig, a stunning rocky island off the coast of Ireland, famous for its breathtaking views and vibrant seabird colonies.
Sceilg Bheag (Skellig Rock Small)
16.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Sceilg Bheag, a stunning nature preserve in County Kerry, Ireland, rich in wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Staigue Stone Fort
17.8 km
Experience the ancient allure of Staigue Stone Fort, a remarkable historical landmark in County Kerry, Ireland, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Skellig Rocks
17.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Skellig Rocks, a UNESCO World Heritage Site off the Irish coast, famous for its rugged cliffs and ancient monastery.
Sceilg Mhíchíl/ Great Sceilig
19.0 km
Explore the stunning Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient ruins, breathtaking cliffs, and vibrant wildlife in County Kerry, Ireland.
Mainistir Fhionáin (St. Fionan’s Monastery)
19.2 km
Explore the ancient St. Fionan's Monastery on Skellig Rock, a historical landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into Ireland's rich monastic past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ballinskelligs
0.0 km
Explore Ballinskelligs, a breathtaking coastal village in County Kerry, famous for its stunning beaches and the enchanting Skellig Islands.
Ballinskelligs Beach
0.3 km
Discover the stunning Ballinskelligs Beach, a scenic coastal paradise in County Kerry, where golden sands meet the rugged beauty of the Atlantic coast.
Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @Bá na Scealg
0.4 km
Discover the stunning vistas and rich culture of Bá na Scealg, a hidden gem along the breathtaking Wild Atlantic Way in Co. Kerry.
Skelligs Monks Trail guided walk
0.4 km
Explore the Skelligs Monks Trail in Ballinskelligs, Co. Kerry, where stunning landscapes meet rich monastic history on a captivating guided walk.
Ballinskelligs Abbey
1.0 km
Explore the ancient Ballinskelligs Abbey in County Kerry, a serene retreat rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking coastal landscapes.
Skelligs Telescope Viewpoint
3.4 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Skelligs Telescope Viewpoint in Co. Kerry, where stunning ocean vistas and rich history converge.
Siúlóid Bhólais( Bolus Barracks Loop Walk)
4.6 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and historical charm of the Bolus Barracks Loop Walk in Co. Kerry, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers.
Skelligs Chocolate Factory and Cafe
4.6 km
Experience the rich flavors of handmade chocolates at Skelligs Chocolate Factory and Cafe, a delightful destination in Co. Kerry, Ireland.
The Glen Church Ruin and Cemetery
4.9 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of The Glen Church Ruin and Cemetery in County Kerry, a captivating landmark for every traveler.
Bá Fhíonáin /St. Finan's Bay
5.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of St. Finan's Bay, a serene coastal gem in Co. Kerry, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Skellig Ring
5.1 km
Explore the Skellig Ring in Co. Kerry, a scenic coastal route offering stunning views, rich history, and unique wildlife experiences.
Waterville Golf Links
5.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and challenging play of Waterville Golf Links, a top golf destination in County Kerry, Ireland.
Skellig Falcon
6.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Co. Kerry with Skellig Falcon's unforgettable boat tours and stunning wildlife encounters amidst the Atlantic's splendor.
Skellig Gift Store
6.8 km
Explore the Skellig Gift Store in Co. Kerry for unique Irish crafts, local souvenirs, and a taste of authentic Irish culture.
Waterville
6.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Waterville, a picturesque coastal village in County Kerry, Ireland.
Essential places to dine
The Atlantic Grill
0.1 km
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Cable O'Leary's
0.1 km
Discover authentic Irish hospitality at Cable O'Leary's – enjoy local cuisine, craft drinks, and live music in scenic Ballinskelligs.
Skellig Cafe
1.0 km
Discover culinary artistry at Skellig Cafe in Ballinskelligs - where delicious pizza meets inspiring art amidst breathtaking scenery.
Driftwood Surf Cafe
5.0 km
Experience fresh local flavors at Driftwood Surf Cafe in St. Finian's Bay, where stunning ocean views meet delicious culinary creations.
The Smugglers Inn
5.5 km
Discover coastal charm at The Smugglers Inn in Waterville - where great food meets breathtaking views and warm Irish hospitality.
Dooley's Seafood & Steak House Waterfront Bar & Restaurant
6.8 km
Experience exquisite seafood and grilled delights at Dooley's Seafood & Steak House overlooking the stunning landscapes of Waterville.
Butler Arms Hotel
6.9 km
Experience luxury and comfort at Butler Arms Hotel while exploring the stunning coastal beauty of Waterville in County Kerry.
The Villa Waterville
7.0 km
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The Lobster Bar & Restaurant
7.0 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at The Lobster Bar & Restaurant in Waterville – where every meal is a taste of Ireland's coastal charm.
OhMaryLoo
7.0 km
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The Moorings Guesthouse & Seafood Restaurant @ The Bridge Bar
9.3 km
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Skellig Seafront Cafe
9.3 km
Discover culinary delights and breathtaking views at Skellig Seafront Cafe in Co. Kerry - a must-visit for any traveler.
Fisherman's Bar & Skellig Restaurant Portmagee
9.3 km
Experience authentic Irish seafood with stunning harbor views at Fisherman's Bar & Skellig Restaurant in Portmagee.
Scarriff Inn
9.9 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Scarriff Inn in County Kerry, where local flavors meet breathtaking views along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Skelligs Picnic Boxes
9.9 km
Experience the flavors of Co. Kerry at Skelligs Picnic Boxes - delicious takeout perfect for enjoying amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
An Tigin
6.9 km
Explore An Tigin in Waterville for unique Irish crafts, showcasing the best of local artistry and perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Skellig Coast Tourism Network
7.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich heritage of the Skellig Coast, a gem along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way, perfect for adventure seekers and culture lovers alike.
Cois Cuain gifts
9.3 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local crafts at Cois Cuain Gifts, your perfect stop in Portmagee for authentic Irish souvenirs.
Murphy's Marine
9.5 km
Explore the unique offerings of Murphy's Marine, a charming store in Co. Kerry, specializing in marine supplies and local crafts.
Valentia Island Lighthouse
12.6 km
Explore Valentia Island Lighthouse, a captivating fusion of maritime history and breathtaking coastal views in County Kerry, Ireland.
Walsh's SuperValu Caherciveen
13.2 km
Discover the best of local flavors at Walsh's SuperValu Caherciveen, your go-to supermarket for fresh produce, baked goods, and Irish specialties.
Nautical Antiques by Michael Walsh
13.8 km
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Skellig Soaps
13.9 km
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Skellig Gift Store Caherciveen
14.0 km
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Ring of Kerry Gifts
25.6 km
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Hickey´s Music Sneem
25.8 km
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THE PINK UMBRELLA
26.2 km
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Marianne Klopp
27.2 km
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Milleens Cheese Ltd.
27.3 km
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Wiseman's Bedding & Furniture
31.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sigerson's Bar - Tig Rosie
1.3 km
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The Cafe Portmagee
9.3 km
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The Bridge Bar
9.3 km
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Blind Piper
13.3 km
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The Fertha
13.9 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at The Fertha, Cahersiveen's charming bar offering unique beverages and a welcoming atmosphere.
Mike Murt's
14.1 km
Discover the authentic charm of Mike Murt's Pub in Cahersiveen, a cozy retreat for great drinks, live music, and a taste of Irish culture.
The Urhan Inn Pub
25.3 km
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D O'Shea Bar
25.6 km
Experience the heart of Irish hospitality at D O'Shea Bar in Sneem, County Kerry, where tradition meets modern comfort in a vibrant atmosphere.
O'Neill's Bar & Restaurant
25.7 km
Experience the heart of Irish culture at O'Neill's Bar & Restaurant in Allihies, where delightful cuisine meets stunning coastal views.
The Lighthouse Bar
25.7 km
Experience the charm of The Lighthouse Bar in Co. Cork, where stunning coastal views meet exceptional drinks and warm Irish hospitality.
Riney's Bar & Beer Garden
25.7 km
Experience the heart of Irish hospitality at Riney's Bar & Beer Garden in Sneem, where local brews and vibrant atmosphere meet.
Jimmy's Bar
25.8 km
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Causkeys Bar
26.1 km
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O'Shea's Bar
26.1 km
Discover the essence of Irish hospitality at O'Shea's Bar in Eyeries - a perfect blend of warmth, charm, and local brews.
Ardgroom Village
27.8 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich culture of Ardgroom Village, a hidden gem on the Beara Peninsula in County Cork, Ireland.
