Portmagee
This is the starting point for Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Get in
A car drive takes around 30 mins from Cahirciveen.
Get around
The village of Portmagee is small enough to walk around on foot. Nearby destinations that can be reached easily by walking include Bray Head, Valentia Island and a small strand (waterfront) called Reencaheragh at the western end of Portmagee.
Bicycles can be hired in Caherciveen, but it costs extra to have them transported to Portmagee.
There is a local shuttle bus (Kerry Transport - Route 35 - Valentia to Caherciveen) between Portmagee and Caherciveen that runs Monday, Thursday and Friday for €5 (single journey). Pick up in Portmagee is at approx. 09:45 at the Fisherman's Bar. The bus continues on to Tralee on Thursdays. Journeys to Tralee must be booked by 15:00 the day before (call 1890 528 528).
See
- Derrynane House in Caherdaniel is the ancestral home of Daniel O'Connell. It's open daily April-Oct, Sa Su Nov.
- Valentia Island can be seen on the other side of the bridge.
Do
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phone: +353 66 947-6306address: Valentia IslandVisitor centre on Valentia Island (across the bridge from Portmagee) that explores the islands' history, architecture and wildlife. Also offers boat cruises around the islands, but are not licensed to land.
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phone: +353 86 156-2828address: CaherciveenWhale watching cruises (€60) and sea angling. Leave from the marina in Caherciveen. Walk on/walk off (no ladders or steps).
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Heatherhill Stables
phone: +353 66 947-9318address: BallinskelligsHorse and pony trails to suit all ages and abilities through beaches and forest. Valentia IslandThis small island off the coast of Kerry is linked to Portmagee by bridge, and Cahersiveen by car ferry. Things to see on the island include Bray Head (well-known spot for land-based whale watching), the starting point of the first trans-Atlantic cable, the Grotto, lighthouse, tetrapod tracks, Glanleam and Culloo. There are two small villages (Knightstown and Chapeltown) on the island, and the Skellig Experience Visitor Centre.
Buy
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phone: +353 66 947-9119address: The Glen, BallinskelligsFactory producing handmade Irish chocolates, not far from Ballinskelligs. Buy truffles, gift boxes, hot chocolate, etc. Opening times depend on season, see website.
Cois Cuain GiftsLocal crafts and foods, festive and nautical gifts. Connected to The Moorings B&B and Restaurant.
Deo's Food Store and Post OfficeNewsagent, basic groceries and post office.
Eat
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Skellig Mist Coffee Shop and Wine Restaurant
phone: +353 66 947-7250Cafe serving a startling array of homemade pastries, coffees, wine, breakfast, lunches and evening meals. Leads directly on to the water for a bird's eye view of the waterway and Valentia Island. Owned by the first female pastry chef in Ireland. -
K's Golden Grill
phone: +353 87 659-3389A food van that operates after the local restaurants have stopped serving meals. Serves typical greasy spoon fare: burgers, chips, drinks, etc. -
The Moorings B&B and Restaurant
phone: +353 66 947-7108Award-winning seafood restaurant. Closed Mondays except Bank Holidays. Wild blackberriesThese can be found growing on the roadside amongst the wildflowers, delicious!
Drink
The Bridge BarNicknamed 'The Posh Bar'. Touristy, excellent quality meals, live music and dancing on Tuesday nights. Part of The Moorings B&B and Restaurant.
The Fisherman's BarNicknamed 'The Gay Bar', as it's usually full of local men. Less touristy than the Bridge Bar down the road, full of locals.
Sleep
Portmagee HostelImmaculate digs, more like a guesthouse than a hostel. Only five minutes walk from the main street of Portmagee. Free parking, TV room with DVD player, internet and 2 large kitchen/dining areas. Private and shared rooms, ensuites available. Skellig tours, horseriding and water activities can be arranged.
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The Moorings B&B and Restaurant
phone: +353 66 947-7108Excellent standard of accommodation, restaurant attached, waterfront views.
Go next
The boat ride is exciting and somewhat daunting!