We thought the Beara was a much more interesting and scenic peninsula to drive than the Iveragh. Since Kenmare is at the junction between the two, it was an easy drive to sites on the Beara. One highlight was the drive over Healy Pass which made for some interesting driving but some hand wringing for the passenger!
One of our more physically taxing hikes on this trip was in Gleninchaquin Park. This outing began with driving five miles on a one lane hilly, winding and unimproved road. The hike went up and over a waterfall on a path more suited to the resident sheep than us. In spite of the path, we were rewarded with breathtaking scenery on a beautiful sunny day.
Garnish Island lies in the Bantry Bay near the town of Glengarriff. This 37 acre island enjoys a subtropical climate. A wealthy owner developed elaborate gardens here in the early 20th century. The island was an interesting place considering how far north we were.
A local family has preserved the site and farm of one Molly Gallivan who had an inn there about 200 years ago. They also have a fun evening dinner and show. We enjoyed this, courtesy of Untours.
