Iveragh Peninsula

Located in the awe-inspiring county Kerry, Iveragh is truly a one-of-a-kind place. What makes it particularly interesting is the fact that it is one of the smallest Gaeltachts in the country. A Gaeltacht is an Irish district where the government recognises Irish as the principal vernacular language. Introduced in the 1920s as a means to further protect the Irish language, Gaeltachts have no clearly defined borders, but are rather divided into linguistic zones. Over the years, the continued decline of the predominant use of Irish has been a challenge for these areas, with experts noting that in the 21st century, the language wouldn’t be struggling to survive if the State wasn’t perpetually imposing the use of English throughout the country, but especially in these Gaeltachts where there is still a chance to preserve the daily use of the Irish language as the main vernacular amongst locals. The 2016 census showed that in the Iveragh Gaeltacht, only 6.9% of inhabitants claimed to speak Irish on a daily basis, making it one of Ireland’s weakest Gaeltachts. The decrease of Irish speakers between 1956 and 2011 in Iveragh was found to be about 41%. Beyond this, Iveragh is known for its high concentration of Prehistoric Atlantic rock art, located mainly in Derrynablaha and Derreeny and then in Coomasaharn. The peninsula is also widely appreciated for its fascinating geology and rowdy coastline.

Not far from the small village of Sneem, stands this majestic 4th or 5th century fort. Although it is in ruins today, the fort remains a fascinating and puzzling build that continues to attract many visitors. Widely thought to have been built during the late Iron Age, anywhere between 300 to 400 AD, the fort is impressive, even by today’s standards, measuring about 27.4 metres in diameter, with its walls reaching up to 5.5 metres high in some places. The fort is a formidable feat of engineering, its structure demonstrating incredible ingenuity and well thought-out processes. After excavations of the area, researchers defined the fort’s purpose as defensive, but also found evidence it was used as an observatory and as a place of worship. The fort is free of access, at any time of day. You can even climb and walk along the walls, that’s how thick and sturdy they are! Easily accessible by car, Staigue Stone Fort is a perfect stop for anyone curious about Irish culture and its medieval roots.

One of Iveragh’s biggest draws is a 179 kilometre loop that takes visitors through county Kerry's most awe-inspiring sites. The drive starts off in Killarney and takes roughly three hours to complete, but this timing depends on whether you choose to take breaks, and even to stay in the different areas of the drive, stretching the loop over a few days. The drive is an ideal way to see the very best of Iveragh, from the stunning Valentia Island to the famous Kerry Cliffs. 

You can find out more details about the road trip here. 

This imposing ancestral home of Irish politician Daniel O’Connell and the entire O’Connell family, Derrynane House is an unexpected gem amongst miles of unending nature. With over 120 hectares of parkland, the gardens and the views they provide of Iveragh peninsula are really what make this house worth visiting. Originally built in the early 18th century, the house as we know it today was extended and reshaped by Daniel O’Connell, expanding on what his grandparents had built. The estate’s chapel was added in 1844 and modelled after Derrynane Abbey which sits in ruins not far from the house in the village of Caherdaniel. 

The house is open to visitors daily from 10am to 4:30pm in the summertime, please check their designated webpage to see the different opening hours for the winter. Admission for adults costs €5. Please be aware that parking is rather limited at the house and only the ground floor is accessible to persons with reduced mobility. You can find out more information about Derrynane House on their official website. 

• The weather can be rather unpredictable on the peninsula. Be sure to pack appropriate clothing and footwear for your visit. 
• Please be respectful of the environment and the stunning nature you will bear witness to. Stay away from wildlife, do not litter and please respect any local advice on visiting Iveragh. 
• Don’t rush through your visit, take as much time as you need to get the most out of your time there. 

How to get to the peninsula?

By car: 

• Located in County Kerry, the peninsula is easy to reach by car, and it is the best way to get around the area during your visit. Parking is available throughout the peninsula and is free, although please be aware that it can be rather scarce in certain areas.  

Where to stay in Iveragh?