Glenbeigh – A gem on the Ring of Kerry

• By: Editor
• On: 22/Dec/08
• In: Kerry Travel Tips

The picturesque village of Glenbeigh is located on the northern stretch of the Ring of Kerry route just 13km west of Killorglin town. It can be found in a spectacular setting at the base of the Seefin Mountains overlooking beautiful Dingle Bay.

The charming village has cosy traditional pubs and quaint restaurants so it's a hive of activity during the summer months and especially for the annual Glenbeigh Festival and Races held in the month of August. There's lots of accommodation here too, which is great if you want to stop over for the night on the Ring of Kerry drive or whether you want to spend a few days here and use it as a base for touring.

The village has long been associated with Irish folklore and Na Fianna legends and it's said that Rossbeigh Strand was where Niamh and Oisin galloped off on their white horse into the sea to Tír na nOg – the land of youth.

Attractions

One of the main attractions here is the beautiful Rossbeigh Beach which is about 3km from Glenbeigh village. This 7km golden strand is one of the country's most popular blue flag beaches making Glenbeigh a top destination for sun worshippers when the weather is fine.

If you're on the Ring of Kerry route and have some time to spare, why not park up and stretch your legs with a walk on the beach? Rossbeigh Beach has a beautiful loop walk which is about 10km long. The beach is ideal for kids as it's got acres of sand dunes, tennis courts, a designated children's play area and lifeguards patrol the beach during the busy summer months.

Due to the important flora and fauna in the area, Rossbeigh Beach has been designated a Special Area of Conservation.

Other attractions in the area include Wynne's Folly – a ruined castle that was built in 1876 by Lord Headley Wynne. It's a bit of a hike up to the castle ruins, but once there, you'll be rewarded with the most panoramic views of Dingle Bay and Rossbeigh Beach.

Activities

Golf-
Dooks Golf Course is one of Ireland's finest golf courses and it can be found just a short drive from Glenbeigh. This 18 hole championship course boasts a stunning location overlooking the Atlantic. For more check out the Dooks Golf Links website. 

Fishing-
You've come to the right place if you want to enjoy a spot or fishing! Opportunities are endless here with trout fishing available on nearby Caragh Lake and Coomasaharn Lake.

Horse Riding-
Horse Riding and pony trekking can be enjoyed on the beach or on mountain tracks through the woods. Treks can take 1, 2 or 3 hours and there are ponies available for all levels and ages whether you're a novice or experienced rider. For more check out the Horse Riding & Activity Centre

Burkes Activity Centre-
Burkes is a great destination for a family day out. Not only does Burkes provide horse riding and pony trekking, it's also got a working farm and a pet corner. Here you'll also find the famous Willow Hedge Maze – a 1 acre maze with 2 miles of pathways. It was designed by a top maze designer and is said to be one of the finest of in the world. You can also have some fun on the 18 hole crazy golf course –the only one of its kind in Ireland.
Check out Burke's Activity Centre website for more.

Cappanalea

Cappanalea Outdoor Education Centre is also just a short drive from Glenbeigh. It can be found at the shores of Caragh Lake near the base of the McGillycuddy Reeks and offers activities like; rock climbing, windsurfing, hill walking, sailing, orienteering. kayaking and canoeing.

How to get there-

Glenbeigh can be found about 13km west of Killorglin in County Kerry. Just take the N70 Iveragh Road from Killorglin and after about a 10 minute drive you'll arrive in Glenbeigh.

Where to stay-

Check out our Glenbeigh B&B's and Glenbeigh self catering for accommodation. If you'd prefer hotel accommodation then have a look at our Kerry hotels page.