Discover the Enchantment of Valentia Island
Explore the breathtaking Valentia Island in County Kerry, a hidden gem with stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant coastal culture for every traveler.
Nestled off the coast of County Kerry, Valentia Island is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and a unique coastal experience for tourists. Explore its rugged cliffs, charming villages, and ancient ruins while soaking in the natural beauty of this Irish paradise.
A brief summary to Valentia Island
- Co. Kerry, IE
Local tips
- Visit the Valentia Island Lighthouse for spectacular views and a glimpse into maritime history.
- Plan your visit during the spring or early summer to enjoy the island's wildflowers in full bloom.
- Don't miss the chance to try local seafood at the island's quaint eateries, especially the fresh catch of the day.
- Pack a camera to capture the breathtaking sunsets over the Atlantic; they are truly unforgettable.
- Explore the island by bike for a more immersive experience, as many paths provide access to hidden gems.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car from The Skelligs, first take the R565 road from Portmagee. Follow this road for about 10 kilometers until you reach the junction for the N70 at the village of Knightstown. Turn left onto the N70, and continue for approximately 4 kilometers. Look for the signs for Valentia Island. You will cross the bridge onto the island, where you can easily access various attractions. Note that parking is available at several locations on the island.
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Public Transportation
To reach Valentia Island using public transport, first take a bus from Portmagee to Knightstown. Bus services may vary, so check local schedules in advance. Once you arrive in Knightstown, follow the signs to the Valentia Island Bridge, which is about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop. After crossing the bridge, you will be on the island, where you can explore the many sights. Ensure you have fare for the bus, which typically costs around €5-10 depending on the service.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, consider hiring a taxi from Portmagee to Valentia Island. This option is convenient as it allows for door-to-door service. The taxi will take you directly to the bridge leading to Valentia Island. The cost may vary; expect to pay around €20-30 for this short journey, depending on the taxi service.
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Bicycle
For the more adventurous, cycling from Portmagee to Valentia Island is a fantastic option. Rent a bicycle in Portmagee and take the R565 road towards Knightstown. The route is scenic and takes about 30-40 minutes depending on your pace. Once you reach Knightstown, follow the signs to the Valentia Island Bridge. Ensure to wear a helmet and follow local cycling regulations. Be aware that there may be limited bike racks available on the island.
Discover more about Valentia Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Donnybrook
1.4 km
Explore Donnybrook, a captivating historical landmark in Co. Kerry, where the beauty of nature meets rich Irish heritage.
Tobar Fionáin (Holy Well)
7.3 km
Explore Tobar Fionáin, the historic Holy Well in Co. Kerry, a serene retreat steeped in rich Irish spiritual heritage and breathtaking natural beauty.
Top Of The Rock Viewing Platform
9.0 km
Explore the stunning Top of the Rock Viewing Platform in Co. Kerry, where breathtaking views and serene landscapes await every traveler.
Daniel O'Connell Memorial Church
9.8 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Daniel O'Connell Memorial Church in Cahersiveen, a treasured gem in County Kerry, Ireland.
Skelligs Monks Trail guided walk
11.4 km
Experience the captivating Skelligs Monks Trail in Co. Kerry, where history meets breathtaking coastal beauty on an unforgettable guided walk.
Ballinskelligs Abbey
12.0 km
Explore the historic Ballinskelligs Abbey in County Kerry, where ancient ruins meet breathtaking coastal views.
Little Skellig
17.3 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)
17.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Sceilg Bheag, a stunning nature preserve in County Kerry, Ireland, rich in wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Loher Stone Fort
19.0 km
Experience the ancient charm of Loher Stone Fort in County Kerry, where history meets breathtaking views of the Irish landscape.
Skellig Rocks
19.5 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
19.8 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)
19.9 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.
Sceilg Mhichíl / Skellig Michael
20.1 km
Explore Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to stunning cliffs, ancient monastic ruins, and rich wildlife in County Kerry, Ireland.
Skellig Michael
20.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering stunning hikes, rich history, and vibrant wildlife.
Skellig Michael Lower Lighthouse
20.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Skellig Michael Lower Lighthouse, a historic gem surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich maritime heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cool East Wedge Tomb
0.4 km
Discover the ancient allure of Cool East Wedge Tomb in Co. Kerry, a captivating historical landmark steeped in Neolithic heritage.
HappyLandGifts Ireland
0.9 km
Experience the essence of Ireland at HappyLandGifts, where local craftsmanship and cultural treasures await in Co. Kerry.
Fogher Cliffs(Aillte Fogher)
1.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fogher Cliffs, a stunning coastal attraction in County Kerry, Ireland, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Geokaun Mountain and Cliffs
1.4 km
Explore the breathtaking views at Geokaun Mountain and Cliffs in Co. Kerry, Ireland, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Geokaun
1.4 km
Explore Geokaun, the breathtaking mountain peak in Co. Kerry, renowned for stunning views, rich wildlife, and serene hiking trails.
The Grotto, Slate Quarry
1.8 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of The Grotto Slate Quarry on Valentia Island, a perfect blend of history, nature, and breathtaking views.
The Valentia Island Tetrapod Footprints
2.4 km
Experience the ancient Tetrapod Footprints on Valentia Island, a captivating historical landmark that reveals Earth's early terrestrial life amidst stunning coastal scenery.
The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre
2.5 km
Explore the stunning Skellig Islands and uncover their rich history at The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre on Valentia Island, County Kerry.
Skellig Rock Boat Tours (@timmysboat)
2.6 km
Embark on a breathtaking journey with Skellig Rock Boat Tours, exploring Ireland's stunning natural beauty and rich historical heritage.
Skellig Walker Cruises
2.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Valentia Island and the Skellig Islands with Skellig Walker Cruises, your gateway to Ireland's stunning marine landscapes.
Skellig Coast Adventures
2.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Ireland's Skellig Islands with Skellig Coast Adventures, offering unforgettable boat tours from Portmagee Marina.
Skelligs Rock Cruises
2.8 km
Discover the magic of the Skellig Islands with Skelligs Rock Cruises - a breathtaking journey through history and nature in County Kerry.
Skellig Michael Voyage
2.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Skellig Michael on an unforgettable boat tour in County Kerry.
Great Skellig
2.8 km
Discover the ancient monastic ruins and breathtaking vistas of Great Skellig, a UNESCO World Heritage site off the coast of County Kerry, Ireland.
Skellig Michael tours- Skellig Michael landing tours - Skellig Island Eco tours - Skellig Boats - Skellig Michael Cruises
2.8 km
Explore Skellig Michael, Ireland's breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its ancient monastery and stunning coastal scenery.
Essential places to dine
The Ring Lyne Bar & Restaurant
1.3 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at The Ring Lyne Bar & Restaurant on Valentia Island.
Skellig Seafront Cafe
2.9 km
Discover culinary delights and breathtaking views at Skellig Seafront Cafe in Co. Kerry - a must-visit for any traveler.
The Moorings Guesthouse & Seafood Restaurant @ The Bridge Bar
2.9 km
Discover fresh seafood and warm hospitality at The Moorings Guesthouse & Seafood Restaurant in Portmagee, Co. Kerry.
Fisherman's Bar & Skellig Restaurant Portmagee
2.9 km
Experience authentic Irish seafood with stunning harbor views at Fisherman's Bar & Skellig Restaurant in Portmagee.
Royal Valentia Hotel Bar and Restaurant
4.9 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at the Royal Valentia Hotel Bar and Restaurant on Valentia Island, where local flavors meet stunning scenery.
O'Neills The Point Seafood Bar
5.7 km
Discover authentic Irish seafood at O'Neills The Point Seafood Bar in Co. Kerry—where fresh flavors meet stunning coastal views.
Driftwood Surf Cafe
7.2 km
Experience fresh local flavors at Driftwood Surf Cafe in St. Finian's Bay, where stunning ocean views meet delicious culinary creations.
Eva's
9.4 km
Discover culinary delights at Eva's in Cahersiveen – where local flavors meet stunning views along the Ring of Kerry.
Quinlan & Cooke Boutique Hotel & QC’s Seafood Restaurant
9.6 km
Discover Quinlan & Cooke Boutique Hotel & QC’s Seafood Restaurant in Cahersiveen - where luxury meets fresh coastal cuisine amidst stunning Irish landscapes.
Cahersiveen Restaurants | Camo's
9.8 km
Discover authentic Irish flavors at Camo's Restaurant in Cahersiveen – where local ingredients meet culinary excellence.
Apache Pizza Cahersiveen
10.0 km
Discover delicious pizzas at Apache Pizza Cahersiveen - A perfect blend of taste and convenience in County Kerry.
Skellig Cafe
10.6 km
Discover culinary artistry at Skellig Cafe in Ballinskelligs - where delicious pizza meets inspiring art amidst breathtaking scenery.
Cable O'Leary's
11.1 km
Discover authentic Irish hospitality at Cable O'Leary's – enjoy local cuisine, craft drinks, and live music in scenic Ballinskelligs.
The Atlantic Grill
11.1 km
Experience delightful fast food with breathtaking views at The Atlantic Grill in Ballinskelligs, Co. Kerry.
The Smugglers Inn
13.7 km
Discover coastal charm at The Smugglers Inn in Waterville - where great food meets breathtaking views and warm Irish hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cois Cuain gifts
2.9 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local crafts at Cois Cuain Gifts, your perfect stop in Portmagee for authentic Irish souvenirs.
Murphy's Marine
3.2 km
Explore the unique offerings of Murphy's Marine, a charming store in Co. Kerry, specializing in marine supplies and local crafts.
Skellig Coast Tourism Network
4.5 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.
Walsh's SuperValu Caherciveen
8.7 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
9.4 km
Explore maritime history at Nautical Antiques by Michael Walsh in Cahersiveen, where each piece tells a story of Ireland's rich seafaring heritage.
Skellig Soaps
9.6 km
Explore Skellig Soaps in Cahersiveen for handcrafted natural soaps and unique Irish gifts, perfect for souvenirs and personal indulgence.
Skellig Gift Store Caherciveen
9.8 km
Discover unique Irish crafts and heritage treasures at Skellig Gift Store, a must-visit tourist attraction in Caherciveen.
Skellig Gift Store
15.0 km
Discover unique Irish crafts and souvenirs at Skellig Gift Store in Co. Kerry, a charming destination for tourists seeking authentic gifts.
An Tigin
15.8 km
Explore An Tigin in Waterville for unique Irish crafts, showcasing the best of local artistry and perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Great Blasket Island Coffee Shop
24.2 km
Experience the serene beauty and local flavors at Great Blasket Island Coffee Shop, a charming retreat on Ireland's picturesque west coast.
Holden Leathergoods
24.3 km
Discover exquisite leather craftsmanship at Holden Leathergoods in Dingle, where tradition meets contemporary design in the heart of County Kerry.
LilyMais
25.8 km
Discover unique beachwear and fashionable apparel at LilyMais, the premier clothing store in Dingle, Co. Kerry.
The Coach House
26.0 km
Discover unique Irish craftsmanship at The Coach House in Dingle, where interior design meets a charming gift shop.
Kerry Woollen Mills
26.0 km
Discover the rich heritage of Irish wool craftsmanship at Kerry Woollen Mills, where quality meets tradition in the heart of County Kerry.
Morans Supermarket
26.0 km
Discover the best local flavors at Morans Supermarket, your essential shopping destination in Dingle, County Kerry.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cafe Portmagee
2.8 km
Discover the beauty of Portmagee at The Cafe, where delicious cuisine meets stunning coastal views.
The Bridge Bar
2.9 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Bridge Bar in Portmagee, where local brews and hearty meals come together in a stunning coastal setting.
The Fertha
9.7 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at The Fertha, Cahersiveen's charming bar offering unique beverages and a welcoming atmosphere.
Mike Murt's
10.0 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.
Sigerson's Bar - Tig Rosie
10.6 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Sigerson's Bar - Tig Rosie, known for its cozy atmosphere and exceptional Guinness in Dungeagan, Co. Kerry.
Blind Piper
23.5 km
Experience the heart of Irish culture at Blind Piper, where tradition meets warm hospitality in the beautiful County Kerry.
Krugers Bar
25.8 km
Discover the heart of Tralee at Krugers Bar, a quintessential Irish pub offering great drinks, delicious food, and lively entertainment.
Jimmy's Pub
25.9 km
Discover the authentic Irish pub experience at Jimmy's Pub in Dingle, where warmth, hospitality, and local brews await every visitor.
The Green Room Dingle
26.0 km
Discover The Green Room Dingle: where expertly crafted cocktails meet live music in a cozy, speakeasy-inspired setting.
O'Flaherty's Bar
26.0 km
Discover the charm of O'Flaherty's Bar in Dingle, where Irish hospitality meets a lively atmosphere and delicious local brews.
Paudie's Bar
26.0 km
Discover the charm of Paudie's Bar in Dingle, a perfect blend of traditional Irish music, local flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Paddy Bawn Brosnan’s
26.1 km
Discover the heart of Dingle at Paddy Bawn Brosnan’s, where traditional Irish hospitality meets a vibrant bar scene in a picturesque coastal setting.
Hannie Agnes's
26.1 km
Discover the charm of Hannie Agnes's, a cozy bar in Dingle, offering a warm atmosphere and a selection of local drinks to enjoy.
O'Sullivan's Courthouse Pub
26.2 km
Discover the charm of Dingle at O'Sullivan's Courthouse Pub, where authentic Irish food meets lively music in a cozy setting.
Dick Mack's Pub
26.3 km
Discover the historic Dick Mack's Pub in Dingle, where traditional Irish hospitality meets a vibrant atmosphere and delightful local brews.
