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Off the beaten track: hidden gems in Cork & Kerry for the curious traveller

When most American visitors think of Ireland, they picture the Cliffs of Moher, Dublin’s lively Temple Bar, and the well-known Ring of Kerry. While these spots are undeniably stunning, the southwest of Ireland—specifically Cork and Kerry—holds a wealth of lesser-known treasures. These hidden gems offer breathtaking scenery, rich history, and the kind of peace and quiet that’s hard to find in the more tourist-heavy areas.

If you want to make the most of your time exploring these places, it’s worth considering how you’ll get around. Many of these destinations are tucked away in remote corners of the countryside, where roads can be narrow, winding, and sometimes tricky to navigate. Having someone with local knowledge handle the journey allows you to fully enjoy the experience without the stress of finding your way.

1. Bere Island, West Cork

Just a short ferry ride from Castletownbere, Bere Island is a peaceful retreat that few tourists venture to. The island has a rich history, with remnants of British military forts, ancient standing stones, and scenic walking trails with spectacular views of Bantry Bay. It’s an ideal spot for a quiet, unspoiled Irish experience. Getting to the ferry port requires navigating some winding coastal roads, but once you arrive, the journey across the bay is well worth it.

2. The Bull Rock, Cork

This dramatic sea stack off the Beara Peninsula is a real hidden treasure. Home to an abandoned lighthouse and surrounded by seabirds, The Bull Rock is often compared to the Skellig Islands—minus the crowds. Irish mythology even claims it’s a gateway to the underworld. A boat trip here is unforgettable, and reaching the departure point at Dursey Sound can feel like part of the adventure in itself.

3. Gougane Barra, Cork

Gougane Barra is a place of pure tranquility. Tucked away in a valley and surrounded by towering mountains, this peaceful retreat is home to a tiny chapel on a lake, one of the most photographed spots in Ireland. It’s also a great place for hiking, with trails through some of the country’s most scenic forests. The drive there is part of the charm, offering stunning views as you wind through the countryside.

4. The Healy Pass, Beara Peninsula

If you want a scenic drive that rivals the best in the world, the Healy Pass is it. This winding road cuts through the Caha Mountains, offering jaw-dropping views of rugged landscapes and sparkling lakes. Unlike the often-busy Ring of Kerry, the Healy Pass remains blissfully quiet. Taking your time here allows you to soak in the views and capture some incredible photos.

5. Derrynane Beach & House, Kerry

Derrynane Beach is one of Ireland’s most breathtaking, yet it remains largely under the radar. With golden sand, rolling dunes, and clear waters, it’s a perfect place to relax away from the crowds. Just a short walk away is Derrynane House, once home to Daniel O’Connell, one of Ireland’s most important historical figures. The journey to Derrynane takes you through some spectacular coastal scenery, making the trip as enjoyable as the destination itself.

6. Valentia Island, Kerry

Connected to the mainland by a bridge, Valentia Island is packed with history and natural wonders. It’s home to the oldest known fossilized tetrapod footprints—over 385 million years old—and offers spectacular views from Bray Head. The island’s winding roads and scenic coastal routes make for a rewarding trip with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore.

7. The Blasket Islands, Kerry

A visit to the Blasket Islands is like stepping back in time. Once home to a small Irish-speaking community, the islands are now an open-air museum of abandoned cottages and untouched nature. Accessible only by boat from Dunquin, these islands provide an escape from modern life. The ferry departs from a particularly scenic stretch of coastline, so the journey itself is something to savor.

8. The Black Valley, Kerry

If you want to see one of Ireland’s most remote and untouched areas, head to the Black Valley. Tucked away near the famous Gap of Dunloe, this valley is strikingly beautiful, with towering mountains and mirror-like lakes. It was one of the last places in Ireland to receive electricity, and it still feels like a step back in time. The roads here are narrow and winding, adding to the sense of adventure as you make your way through.

9. Gleninchaquin Park, Kerry

For those who love the outdoors, Gleninchaquin Park is a must-visit. Nestled near Kenmare, this privately owned park offers incredible hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, and a peaceful escape from busy tourist spots. The approach roads are quite narrow, but the reward is a truly serene and scenic setting far from the crowds.

10. Dursey Island & Ireland’s Only Cable Car, Cork

Dursey Island is unlike anywhere else in Ireland. Accessible by the country’s only cable car, which glides high above the Atlantic, this remote island has no shops or restaurants—just breathtaking scenery and peaceful walking trails. Getting to the cable car station takes you along one of the most ruggedly beautiful parts of the Irish coastline, making the entire trip a memorable experience.

Final thoughts

Cork and Kerry are home to some of Ireland’s most spectacular but lesser-known destinations. While the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry will always be popular, venturing off the beaten path allows you to experience the real magic of Ireland. The roads to these places may be winding and remote, but that only adds to the adventure. Taking your time, enjoying the journey, and maybe even relying on local knowledge will make the experience even more enjoyable.

So, when you plan your trip to Ireland, consider skipping the typical tourist spots—at least for a day or two—and uncover the hidden treasures of Cork and Kerry. You won’t regret it.

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