A LITTLE known Irish island boasts stunning sandy beaches, a walrus visitor and quirky accommodation.
Valentia Island, off the coast of Kerry, is seen by many as the crown jewel of The Kingdom – and for good reason.
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The 12km by 5km island sits off the county’s south west coast, and is home to over 700 residents.
Despite its secluded setting, Valentia has become a spectacular holiday destination for those in the know, and boasts an abundance of activities and incredible scenery.
And better yet, the island isn’t too far from the mainland, and can be accessed via the iconic Maurice O’Neill Memorial Bridge at Portmagee.
However, despite being attached to the mainland, Valentia is the perfect place to disconnect from the wider world, while having plenty to see and do.
From bird watching, hiking and history to cycling and exploring the rugged countryside, there really is something for everyone at Valentia Island.
The island’s iconic lighthouse should be the first stop for any visitor gracing one of Ireland’s most westerly points.
Situated on Cromwell Point in the northeast, the lighthouse itself sits on the site of the 17th-century Cromwellian Fort.
Today, the lighthouse is automated and is open daily to visitors exploring the island for just €7.50 per adult.
The attraction is seven kilometers from the island’s seaside village of Knightstown.
The Valentia Transatlantic Cable Station, which was closed for 56 years has also reopened to the public, is also a must-see for any history buff.
The ‘Eight Wonder’ was a 3200 kilometers-long underwater telegraph cable connecting Europe with North America, becoming a trailblazer in modern communication.
The museum’s permanent exhibition brilliantly tells the station’s amazing story, and offers an unforgettable visitor experience.
For those looking to scale Valentia’s rugged landscape, you can visit the nearby Tetrapod Trackway, Slate Quarry or journey to Geokaun Mountain.
Geokaun is the highest point on Valentia and offers stunning 360-degree views from the Skellig Islands to the rest of the Kerry Mountains.
AMAZING VIEWS
The breathtaking Fogher cliffs are also visible at one of the mountains many viewpoints, and if you climb when the stars are out, visitors will be left in awe by the island’s unspoiled skies.
Southwest Kerry has even become one of three areas honoured as a gold tier International Dark Sky Reserve, alongside The Grand Canyon and African Savanah – making midnight strolls a necessity during a trip to the remote island.
Valentia’s stunning wildlife in the air, land and sea has also become a major draw for visitors and locals.
Seabird populations during the summer months are huge, with puffins, gannets and herons becoming regular visitors during this time.
Dolphins are also a common sight alongside seals, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a giant arctic walrus – last seen resting on the island’s pristine shores in 2021.
SECRET STRAND
If you’re hoping to soak in some rays, Glanleam Beach is located on the north east coast of the island.
The secret strand is just metres from the entrance to Glanleam House and Gardens, and is a little known secret among the locals who regularly dip in the waters for its reputed health benefits.
However, if you’d prefer to heal up with some hot food and a cold drink, you won’t be disappointed on Valentia.
A slew of bars and restaurants are dotted around the seaside village of Knightstown, boasting mouthwatering seafood, a great atmosphere, and welcoming locals.
And if you want to rest your head after a long day of exploring, the island has you covered.
LIFE ON WHEELS
Valentia is littered with hotels, B&Bs, hostels and campsites to suit the needs of any traveller, with prices at The Royal Hotel Valentia, which overlooks Knightstown port, starting at €109 per night.
However, one gaff stands above the rest, and is hilariously out of place on the Wild Atlantic Kerry Island.
The ’79 BUS costs €195 per night and has room for five guests.
However, what really sets the AirBnB apart is its design, which has been modelled using an old double decker bus.
But don’t let its appearance fool you, despite its humble beginnings, the ’79 BUS is beautifully kept and stylishly finished – while boasting its very own sheltered patio.
The quirky two storey digs is sure to astound any visitors to the island, and could be perfect for a weekend away with friends.
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