Things to do in Ring of Beara
Discover the best attractions and experiences Ring of Beara has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore relics from ages past along the Beara coastline, from ancient circles to 17th‑century fortifications.
Drombeg Stone Circle
A Bronze Age stone circle near Glandore, offering a glimpse into ancient ceremonial sites on the Beara coast.
Bantry House
An 18th‑century manor with grand architecture and formal gardens reflecting coastal gentry history.
Dunboy Castle Ruins
Ruins of a 17th‑century fortress guarding Bantry Bay, connected to historic sieges and local lore.
Museums
Delve into regional heritage, mining history, and island life through compact, well‑curated museums.
Allihies Copper Mine Museum
Exhibits detailing the area’s copper mining past and the lives of the miners.
Bere Island Heritage Centre
Gives insight into island life, culture, and local coastal stories.
Skibbereen Heritage Centre
Local history exhibits including Cork’s Great Famine and regional traditions.
Religious Monuments
Sites of worship and sacred history along the Beara route.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding religious monuments recommendations for Ring of Beara. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
National & Theme Parks
Scenic gardens and protected lands offering lush landscapes and coastal views.
Garnish Island (Ilnacullin) Gardens
A sunken garden island near Glengarriff with ornamental plants and ocean panoramas.
Derreen Arboretum and Gardens
Expansive woodland gardens with lakes, trees, and serene walking trails near Lauragh.
Dursey Island (Nature Reserve)
Ireland’s cable‑car accessed island with rugged cliffs and wildlife habitat.
Neighborhoods
Characterful towns and villages along the Ring of Beara worth exploring on foot or by car.
Bantry
Harbor town with shops, sea views, and gateway to Beara adventures.
Glengarriff
Village known for its scenic harbor, woodlands, and gardens.
Castletownbere
Portside town famed for its fishing heritage and rugged coastline.
Allihies
Coastal hamlet with mining history and coastal walks.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the natural beauty of Beara with outdoor activities that won’t cost a euro.
Walk the Ring of Beara
Take in dramatic cliffs, sea views, and scenic viewpoints along the coastal road.
Hike Healy Pass
Steep, sweeping hillside road with panoramic views across Bantry Bay.
Picnic on Beara beaches
Relax on public beaches like Glengarriff and Allihies with free sea air.
Gastronomy
Seafood, local produce, and hearty Irish fare shape Beara’s food scene.
Seafood by Bantry Bay
Fresh catches and chowder at harborfront eateries.
Allihies Copper Coast specialties
Local dishes featuring regional seafood and farm produce.
Traditional Irish fare in Castletownbere
Coastal taverns serving simple, flavorful dishes with ocean views.
Nightlife
Relaxed evenings in pubs and seaside venues with warm Irish hospitality.
Traditional music sessions in Beara pubs
Live, informal music that showcases local talent.
Harbor strolls in Bantry or Castletownbere
Evening walks along the quay with sea breezes and lights.
Casual pub evenings in Glengarriff
Quiet venues with friendly crowds and scenic views.
Entertainment
Cultural experiences and outdoor activities that entertain beyond the museum walls.
Boat tours for wildlife watching
Short excursions offering seabirds and coastal scenery.
Local theatre events in Bantry
Community stage performances and small‑scale plays.
Storytelling evenings in community venues
Traditional tales and local lore shared by guides or residents.
Sports
Active ways to enjoy the Beara landscape, from water to land.
Kayaking in Bantry Bay
Calm waters ideal for paddling along scenic shores.
Hiking the Beara Way
Long‑distance trails with coastal and mountain vistas.
Cycling the Ring of Beara
Road cycling along winding coastal routes with dramatic scenery.
Off the Track
Autumn and spring secrets for the adventurous traveler seeking unique experiences.
Dursey Island Cable Car ride
A dramatic crossing to a rugged island with wildlife and cliffs.
Derreen woodland walks
Peaceful forest trails and lakes near Lauragh.
Hidden coastal viewpoints along Beara
Seek out secluded lookouts for sunrise or sunset.