The best MTB trails in Kerry

This island on the Wild Atlantic Way is an absolute must-stop. From the 365 million-year-old Tetrapod footprints to the site of the first trans-atlantic telegraph cable: Valentia breathes history. Cycle to the iconic lighthouse or conquer Geokaun Mountain for a spectacular 360-degree view over the Dingle Peninsula and the Skellig Islands. Whether you take the bridge from Portmagee or the ferry at Reenard, the mix of rugged cliffs, subtropical gardens and the charm of Knightstown makes this an unforgettable route.

On this open hill on Valentia Island, the European endpoint of the first transatlantic telegraph cable was laid in 1858. From this field, the cable ran for more than 3,000 kilometers under the ocean to Newfoundland — a technological leap that changed the world forever. Today it is a quiet, windy spot overlooking the ocean and the Skellig coast, but its significance remains immense: the era of global communication began here.

Portmagee Harbour is the beating heart of the small fishing village of Portmagee. The colourful row of houses along the water, the bobbing boats, and the view of the bridge to Valentia Island give the harbour a charming, almost postcard-like atmosphere. In the early morning, boats depart from here towards the Skellig Islands; later in the day, calm returns and the light of the bay reflects in the still water.

From the crossroads, you have a beautiful view of the bay via the L97104. The altitude difference (81m) provides a nice perspective.

Following the steep, winding road between Portmagee and St. Finian’s Bay leads to the Coomanaspig Pass: a rugged mountain pass at an altitude of 185 meters, where the Atlantic Ocean and the Irish interior meet in a single panorama. From the summit, a 360-degree view unfolds—the pointed Skellig Islands on one side, the green valleys of the Iveragh Peninsula on the other. The climb itself, with gradients of up to 15% and sharp bends, feels like a mini expedition. At the top, where wind and clouds have free rein, you experience the Wild Atlantic Way in its purest form: grand, silent, and pristine.

Arrive at sunset in Portmagee. This tiny, picturesque village takes its name from the pirate Magee, who landed here in ancient times. It's the starting point for expeditions to the mystical Skelligs Islands.

Nestled beneath the splendor of the Caha Mountains in West Cork, and just a short distance from the islands of Bantry Bay, the small and characterful village of Glengarriff on the Wild Atlantic Way is the gateway to the Beara Peninsula (the third of the peninsulas in southwest Ireland).

On this site, there is a Rath, remains of a fortified settlement from the Bronze Age. Ringforts like this were "fairy forts" full of Druid magic and believers in fairies did not change them... according to folklore, that is! I find these kinds of places totally fascinating.