Historical Walking Tours in Valentia and the Skellig Region

Ring of Kerry , Ireland

Historical Walking Tours in Valentia and the Skellig Region

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

You will walk from the Car Park to the top and Bray Head and discover the history of this part of Valentia from the neolithic period to modern time. All with amazing view of the Skelligs, the Atlantic, Portmagee, and the entrance to Valentia Harbour. The walk starts in the carpark, looking onto Foilhomurrun Bay. This is where the first transatlantic cable came ashore and is also the site of a Cromwellian fort. After this you will follow the track up Bray head. Along the way you will see standing stones, ancient field enclosures, the unique ruins of Crompeol village, monastic huts with stone carvings, and finally the signal tower from the Napoleonic period. A walk through thousands of years of history in some of the most beautiful landscape in Ireland. The tour will be given by a local historian experienced in historical walks around Valentia and South Kerry, making it a unique tour.

Available options

Historical Walking Tours in Valentia and the Skellig Region

What's included

Guide

Detailed itinerary

We will travel back in time as we walk up Bray Head and see standing stones, visit the ruined Gaelic village of Crompeol, visit the monastic huts, and look for the elaborate carvings. All while looking towards the Skelligs and over the beautiful landscape of this part of Kerry. We will also see Foilhommerum bay where the transatlantic cable first reached Valentia and Cromwell Fort, built in the 1650s.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Some steep walking necessary

Bring rain gear and good shoes or boots

Meeting point

We will meet you at the Bray Head Car Park 15 minutes before the start time. The guide will have a sign saying A Sense of Place. The tour will start in the car park and will last approximately 3 hours.

About Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is a scenic drive in County Kerry, Ireland, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage. This 179-kilometer route takes you through mountains, coastal cliffs, and ancient ruins, offering a quintessential Irish experience.

Top Attractions

Killarney National Park

A vast and beautiful national park featuring lakes, mountains, and woodlands.

Nature Half to full day Free

Skellig Michael

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an ancient monastic settlement on a steep, rocky island.

Historical Full day (including boat trip) Moderate (boat tour required)

Gap of Dunloe

A dramatic glacial valley offering breathtaking views and scenic walks.

Nature Half to full day Moderate (depending on activities)

Ross Castle

A 15th-century castle located on the edge of Lough Leane in Killarney National Park.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee applies)

Sneem

A picturesque village known for its colorful houses and vibrant arts scene.

Cultural A few hours Free (except for any purchases or meals)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Irish Stew

A hearty dish made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions

Dinner Contains meat

Seafood Chowder

A creamy soup made with fresh local seafood like fish, mussels, and prawns

Dinner Contains seafood, can be made gluten-free

Soda Bread

A traditional Irish bread made with buttermilk and baking soda

Breakfast Vegetarian, can be made vegan

Irish Coffee

A warm and comforting drink made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and whipped cream

Drink Contains alcohol, dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Cycling Boat tours Scenic drives Spa treatments Picnicking Visiting historic sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the busiest time with pleasant weather, long daylight hours, and vibrant cultural events.

15-20°C 59-68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Irish
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or IST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

The Ring of Kerry is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable taxi services
• Be cautious when walking alone at night

Getting there

By air

Kerry Airport • 15 km from Killarney
Shannon Airport • 120 km from Killarney

By train

Killarney Train Station

By bus

Killarney Bus Station, Tralee Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are available but not as frequent as in larger cities.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Killarney Kenmare Portmagee

Day trips

Dingle Peninsula

80 km from Killarney • Full day

A scenic peninsula offering stunning coastal views, charming villages, and ancient sites.

Gap of Dunloe

20 km from Killarney • Half to full day

A dramatic glacial valley offering breathtaking views and scenic walks.

Skellig Michael

80 km from Killarney • Full day (including boat trip)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an ancient monastic settlement on a steep, rocky island.

Festivals

Puck Fair • August Kerry Bog Festival • Early September Killarney Food and Drink Festival • October

Pro tips

Start your journey early to avoid crowds and enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace.
Pack layers and rain gear, as the weather can be unpredictable.
Try local specialties like seafood chowder and Irish stew.
Visit Skellig Michael early in the day for the best experience and to avoid crowds.
Explore the Gap of Dunloe for stunning views and a unique perspective on the area.