Uncover North Kerry’s Hidden Heritage

After a wonderful breakfast and exploring the local area you will gain a deep understanding of Beekeeping this afternoon. The workshop starts with an immersive talk on the History of Beekeeping in Ireland through to the practicalities keeping bees yourself. Once suitably kitted out in your protective suit you will visit an active hive where you will be able to handle the bees and see the wonders of the internal workings of the hive. You will witness the mysteries of the brood nest and marvel at the bees busily packing away the honey for their winter stores. The three castes of honeybee will be explained to you along with the specific duties carried out over the span of a honeybee’s life. After visiting the hive, you will return to the house where there will be a short demonstration of beeswax products. To conclude the afternoon, you will then have an opportunity to make Bees Wax Wraps with the wax from very bees you just visited and will be invited to sample delicious homemade Honey Cake with a refreshing cup of tea.

The course is conducted by a chair of the Kerry Beekeeping Association. Beekeeping equipment is supplied however appropriate trousers are required to participate.

Experience the incredible Kerry coastline on a tour with a renowned outdoor water adventure company. Owner John, has spent his life in the water and is an expert at people on epic coasteering tours, swims and sea-kayaking trips. You will be guided to secret swimming spots even the locals don’t know about and participate in adrenaline-fueled activities.

Put on your wetsuit and head to the coastline to go coasteering. Jump from cliffs into the sea, swim under sea arches and explore caves within the cliff face. Get off the beaten track on a wild swimming tour and discover secret lakes, hidden coves and forgotten beaches. Relax in the tranquility of the idyllic crystal clear waters. Open water swimmers will love swimming around Fenit Lighthouse and along the beautiful coastline.

Finish your seafaring adventure with a meal at a locally renowned pub & restaurant in Ardfert.

Begin your day by driving toward Ventry Harbour. From there you will go on a three-hour boat trip towards the Great Blasket Island, walk through the old Blasket village and beautiful Trá Bán [White Strand]. You might chance upon the resident population of grey seals at Carraig Fhada along the way. On your return into Dingle Bay, there is a strong chance you’ll see dolphins and possibly even minke whales and basking sharks (seasonal). A short, but awe-inspiring trip, it’s a memory you won’t soon forget.

In the afternoon, explore the harbour town of Dingle, famous for its bohemian charm, craft shops, art galleries and internationally renowned music scene. St. James’ Church in Dingle is the original venue for the Other Voices series, now filmed around the world. Many musicians have gotten their start in Dingle so, if you can hold a tune, you might be next…

Have a cup of tea on the deck overlooking the ocean before you depart on your trip around North Kerry. Make sure to pack your swimsuit, as there are many amazing beaches on route.

Head toward the village of Ardfert, the original Diocese of Kerry. Once the parish of Kerry’s own St. Brendan the Navigator, the towering walls of the Cathedral still stand as a backdrop to the town. Not far from Ardfert lies the ‘Lonely’ Banna Strand, famous for the landing of Sir Roger Casement during the 1916 Rising, it has for years maintained it’s Blue Flag status.

Leaving Banna behind, take the road towards Ballybunion. On the way, you will pass through Ballyheigue, whose beach connects Banna Strand to the south and Kerry Head to the north. Ballybunion is famous the world over for its Golf Course, with breathtaking views over the coastline. Plan ahead if you are considering a round of golf and book a tee time in advance. A mile from the town are the lesser known of Ireland’s cliffs, the imposing Bromore Cliffs. With an impressive 180-foot sheer drop into the ocean, you’re unlikely to come across many fellow travelers and the entry fee is a mere €5 per car. If the sun is shining, a quick dip at Ladies Beach in Ballybunion is highly recommended.

Listowel is next on the list and is known for its immense contribution to Irish literature with the likes of J.B. Keane hailing from the there. An imposing castle stands guard over the town. Make your way toward Fenit and after a walk along the pier, you can grab a bite to eat at a restaurant near the village. Barrow is just a 5-minute drive away so take your time and relax in this charming little village before heading back ‘home’.

After a hearty breakfast and many wonderful memories it’s time to say goodbye.