Discover Valentia Island

Valentia Island combines the dramatic cliffs of Bray Head with an unusual history: the first successful transatlantic telegraph cable link to Heart’s Content in Newfoundland, Canada, ran from here. The island lies on the Skellig Coast, just off the main route of the Ring of Kerry. A mild climate influenced by the Gulf Stream and lush, colourful vegetation shape its character. Between cliffs, walking trails and historic sites, you can choose different focuses for your stay.

Panoramic views and trails on the island

The Bray Head Loop is a moderately difficult 4.5-kilometre circular trail that takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Beyond the Signal Tower, the trail continues along clifftop paths to Bray Head Cross at the island’s highest point. Along the way, there are views of the Skelligs, Horse Island, Long Island and the Iveragh Peninsula. The restored 19th-century Signal Tower has a rooftop viewing platform.

A longer hiking option is the Cullum’s Cup Main Loop: this circular trail is 7.9 kilometres long, has 204 metres of elevation gain and is of moderate difficulty. Its views extend across the Iveragh Peninsula, the Blasket Islands and Valentia Harbour. Cullum’s Cup on Kilbeg Mountain was once the site of an electric anemometer connected to Valentia Observatory. Geology enthusiasts can also follow the Valentia Island Geotrail at Dohilla, a 2-kilometre route.

The Valentia Island Tetrapod Trackway takes you much further back in time. Here you can see fossilised footprints and rock layers shaped by wave ripples. The trackway is considered one of the oldest and longest traces of early vertebrates on Earth. Valentia Island is also part of a scenic coastal cycling route.

Telegraphy, lighthouse and island history

The Valentia Transatlantic Cable Station is located on the promenade in Knightstown. Its immersive exhibition lets visitors send a Morse code message and brings the history of the telegraph connection to life. The Valentia Island Heritage Centre focuses on island life. Its exhibition topics include Devonian tetrapod footprints, Ogham stones, holy wells and village settlements. A Sense of Place offers tailor-made tours for those interested in historical tours of Valentia.

Valentia Lighthouse also brings together different chapters of the island’s history: it offers guided tours and a balcony with 360-degree views of the Atlantic. The grounds include a 17th-century fort and a Bronze Age standing stone. The Lightkeeper’s Dwelling House has been fully restored as a museum; the former kitchen now houses tearooms. Valentia Slate Quarry lies in the north of the island. It opened in 1816 and is still in operation; the famous Valentia Slate is associated with the quarry.

Knightstown itself was laid out by Alexander Nimmo in 1830–31 and built as a planned village in the early 1840s. This local history complements the themes of telegraphy, the lighthouse and the quarry with a look at the development of the village.

Activities for all and how to get there

Cracow Park in Knightstown has modern play equipment, walking paths and paved areas for tennis, basketball and football. The park is accessible; the car park and entrance are also accessible. For families looking to combine exercise with different interests, the facilities range from play equipment to several sports.

To experience the island from the water, consider AquaTerra Boat Tours’ private or small-group sea trips along the Skellig Coast. You can reach Valentia Island via a road bridge from Portmagee or by car ferry from Renard Point near Cahersiveen. The ferry operates from April to October. If you are looking for a holiday rental on Valentia Island, hiking, island history or a sea trip may help determine which experiences shape your stay.

Other places: Lispole, Glencar, Ballyduff, Dunquin, Ventry, Fieries, Kenmare and An Ráth Mhór.

For the regional travel overview: County Kerry.