We take the narrow and winding lane into this scenic valley, carved from the last ice age, to visit the mystical stone circle at Uragh which overlooks Lough Inchiquin. From here we have a distant view of the impressive waterfall at the back of the valley, although an optional visit to the Gleninchiquin Park and waterfall can be arranged.

We head towards Derreen and Lauragh, following the smaller roads that take us away from the well beaten track, revealing exquisite vistas on our way to this scenic area below the Healy Pass and alongside Glanmore Lake. Here we explore the lakeside and the crystal clear river that flows through an enchanting rural landscape. A visit to the woodland gardens at Derreen is also an option here.

Situated on a hillside with outstanding views, this dream-like Stone Circle is an optional location we can visit. Although we can park 5 - 10 minutes away, there is a moderate walk through some softer ground, especially if we’re in a wet spell, although it’s well worth the effort.

At Ardgroom Village, we follow the Ring of Beara, a narrow single lane road that follows the coastline, providing a series of panoramic vistas of this wonderful coastal landscape along the wild Atlantic Way.

KiIcatherine Church is located above the rugged Atlantic coastline and dates back to the 12th Century. It was built on an earlier ecclesiastical site dating back to the 7th Century. As well as the ruins of the church, we explore the grounds containing many fine examples of headstones with celtic crosses. Enveloped in legends and folklore, we can also discover the Hag of Beara, a little way from the church.

Continuing along the narrow and winding country lanes of the Ring of Beara, we reach the colourful villages of Eyeries and Allihies, giving us access to delightful landscapes and vistas, some of which only the locals ever get to see, as we travel the backroads and cul de sacs that lead us to isolated beaches and coves on the rocky coastline.

Allihies has remnants of 19th Century copper mining in the form of engine houses and their distinctive chimneys as well as mine shafts dotting the landscape. Along the coast we discover the photogenic “Beara Bowl” a natural circular rock formation that faces the open Atlantic Ocean. From here we can visit the cable car that links Dursey Island to the mainland, walk on some of the sandy scenic beaches that are found along the rugged coastline or capture some of the atmospheric famine ruins among the landscape.

The ruins of the 15th century Dunboy Castle are located at the end of a narrow track at the edge of the channel between Bear Island and Castletownbere. Also of interest are the gatehouses to Puxley Mansion, which looms above the ruins of the castle.

We take a break in Castletownbere to explore the ancient fishing port and explore the interesting galleries and charming shop fronts that are found along the main street.

A famine relief project, The Healy Pass was built as “The Kerry Pass” linking the north and south sides of the Beara peninsula. Running from Adrigole Bridge in County Cork, the road snakes to the pass where it crosses the Caha mountain range at a height of around 300m and rolls down a scenic valley to Lauragh Bridge in County Kerry. Captivating views over the Kenmare River, Bantry Bay and the Glanmore Lake area are available at various stops along the way.