Cahersiveen is known as the town that “climbs the mountains and looks upon the sea”. It is this, and so much more too.
Steeped in rich culture, heritage, and breathtaking scenery, there is more than just the festival to enjoy here and across the surrounding areas of the Skellig coast.
EAT and DRINK
Restaurants, pubs, cafes and shops are not in short supply in Cahersiveen – we have around 50 different places to either enjoy a creamy pint, taste some sensational food, or grab a coffee.
WALKS and VIEWS
- Beentee Loop Walk – the trailhead for this 10km loop walk starts in town and will overlook the town, marina, and mountains along its path (3-4 hours)
- Hike Cnoc na d’Tobar – as one of Ireland’s 12 Pilgrim paths, this hike will offer spectacular views from the summit. It is an 8km and moderate hike on rocky terrain (4+ hours).
- Whitestrand and Cuas Crom beaches are both a short drive from town. Whitestrand overlooks Valentia’s neighbouring and uninhabited Beginish Island. Cuas Crom is a popular swimming or sauna spot with locals.
- Other local beaches we recommend nearby include; Ballinskelligs Beach, Glanleam Beach, St Finian’s Bay, Kells Bay, Reenroo, and Waterville Beach.
SLEEP and STAY
There are a whole host of long and short term accommodation options on the Iveragh peninsula, as well as a handful of hotels, hostels and B&Bs in town too.
DAY TRIPS and CULTURE
Our festival programme is full with local events throughout the festival weekend, which might inspire your visit including; sea safaris, guided walking tours and excursions, and outdoor sauna and yoga sessions.
Beyond the festival weekend, we also suggest:
- Boat trip to the Skelligs – boat tours from Cahersiveen marina and Valentia Harbour will bring you up close (or landing on) to this historic island.
- A visit to Valentia Island – enjoy panoramic views of the Iveragh peninsula (with views of Dingle on a clear day!), the Bray Head walk, and see inside the old lighthouse.
- Take a bike ride from Cahersiveen to enjoy the surrounding towns, beaches and scenery that might be missed in a car ride!
- Book a day trip or local excursion and discover the best photo spots and the local heritage of the town.
- Distillery and brewery tours to sample some of the local drinks and spirits and see how they are made.
- Seeing the early medieval stone forts of Cahergal and Leacanabuaile.