ToursGaGa

About Caherdaniel beaches

To glimpse the mythical Irish countryside that you thought only existed in the imagination, head to the Ring of Kerry (also known as the Iveragh Peninsula), in the southwest of the country. This is where the mountains meet the sea. When you're not transfixed by the views, you'll have fun exploring deserted islands, gleaming coves, medieval ruins, and spotting dolphins off the coast.

Beach:

This is one of Ireland's special stretches of coast, full of jagged beauty and softened by long stretches of white sand. Caherdaniel is a small but vibrant village with a stunning Blue Flag beach.

Beyond the beach:

Derrynane House (www.heritageireland.ie) is the ancestral home of Daniel O'Connell, Irish politician and statesman who campaigned for Irish emancipation. It contains lots of memorabilia and is set in sub-tropical gardens and parkland. You can also take a boat trip from here to the Skellig Islands; fierce rocks with a huge gannet population.

Family fun:

Rugged outdoor activities rule at Caherdaniel, and it's a major diving centre, with facilities to learn and equipment to hire. Adventure centres offer chances to try out other sports, such as rock climbing, trekking, waterskiing, sailing, canoeing and fishing.

There's a spectacular walk to Bunavalla Pier, around 3.2km (2 miles) west of Caherdaniel, and the Kerry Way, a popular, beautiful walking route, following the old, pre-19th-century road, passes through the village. Horse riding (for all levels) is another option.