As visitors explore the stunning nation of Ireland, they frequently opt to tackle the 1,600-mile route known as the Wild Atlantic Way – overlooking a much quieter yet equally magnificent peninsula.

In Ireland’s southwest, straddling Cork and Kerry, lies the spectacular Beara Peninsula, renowned for its coastal drive, the Ring of Beara. It comprises the nation’s most dramatic and picturesque terrain, encircled by both the Caha Mountains and the peaceful Slieve Miskish Mountains.

It’s believed this region of Ireland represents how the country appeared centuries ago – both peaceful and pristine. The roads remain too narrow for large tour coaches and therefore it’s frequently untouched by major tourist crowds but instead explored by the most enthusiastic of adventurers.

Many visitors to the peninsula decide to undertake the Beara Way, a 128-mile trail, which can be either hiked or cycled. It’s a remarkable circular route that begins and concludes in Glengarriff, taking you around the complete peninsula in all its magnificence.

As part of this circuit you can glimpse the charming Dursey Island, which is only reachable by cable car, the sole transport of its type in all of Ireland. Recognised as an excellent location for whale watching, the Island is exceptionally remote, only featuring a monastic church, a signal tower and castle ruins.

One traveller who experienced the route said it was “well worth the time spent”. Their TripAdvisor review says: “We actually did the drive and not the walk, but it was amazing, especially Healy Pass. Do try and make the time for this; I think you will be richly rewarded.”

Another visitor shared: “Absolutely breathtaking views on this walk, the green fields, the sound of the sea and the singing of the birds. Its really a magical place. Definitely worth doing.”

Nestled within the peninsula are numerous picture-perfect villages, entirely enveloped by Beara’s untamed natural beauty. Visitors frequently choose these locations as their headquarters for discovering the region and a spot to refuel in authentic Irish pubs.

The most substantial town you’ll encounter is Castletownbere, which remains a significant fishing harbour. Meanwhile, tourists are regularly attracted to the charming Eyeries and Allihies, both cherished for their vibrant painted cottages and coastal charm.

Beara boasts a fascinating heritage believed to stretch back over 5,000 years, housing numerous ancient sites and more than 500 archaeological locations. During your journey, you can discover landmarks treasured by history enthusiasts, including the 70 standing stones, wedge tombs and the popular Uragh Stone Circle.

Upon exploring the ancient site, a visitor shared: “On this trip to southwest Ireland we became stone circle fanatics. Although the smallest stone circle of the hundreds in Ireland, Uragh was easily our favourite due to its isolation and gorgeous setting.”

They went on to describe it as “one of the loveliest places” they’d ever experienced and noted they had the location completely to themselves. This demonstrates the tranquil ambience found along the Beara Peninsula compared to Ireland’s other leading tourist destinations.