Things to do in Glenbeigh
Introduction
The village of Glenbeigh can be best described as a hidden gem tucked away on the Ring of Kerry, almost 40 km from Tralee.
While the town itself is charming as only a small town can be, the lush green surrounding countryside and other marvels in the vicinity make it the perfect getaway for couples and families.
You have one of the blue flag beaches, Rossbeigh, which offers the perfect location for a day in the sun, options for walking expeditions in the majestic hills, and even a game of golf, if you’re looking for something more familiar.
Whether you want to relax or explore, here are some wonderful things to do in Glenbeigh.
Rossbeigh Beach
Less than 4 km from Glenbeigh, Rossbeigh Beach offers 7 miles of soft, golden sands that meet pristine blue waters. Despite its beauty, the beach is secluded and quiet for the most part.
When you are here, you can go swimming or try water sports on the days the weather allows, or sit back and enjoy a picnic along the beach’s sand dunes.
Moreover, the beach is fully equipped with all facilities for convenience – toilets, showers, a playground, basketball and tennis courts. Check out my page on Rossbeigh beach here.
Faha Woods
Nature lovers have the perfect opportunity to go exploring when in Glenbeigh. The nearby majestic Faha Woods offers several walking trails for explorers of varying physical fitness levels.
The Fairy Walk here – with approximately 60 fairy houses peppered along the way – is bound to be a hit among families with children.
Adults have two options to pick from, a 3-km trail, which is good for a small taste of what these woods have to offer, and a 10-km walk around the Rossbeigh Hill for the whole experience.
While none of the walks are strenuous (per se), the incline, exposed roots, and uneven terrain can prove tricky in places. Check out my page on Faha wood here.
Kerry Bog Village
About 5 km before Glenbeigh on the Ring of Kerry lies Kerry Bog Village, a quaint, charming museum built as a flashback to Ireland back in the 19th century.
As a one of its kind museum in Europe, Kerry Bog Village is a must-visit when in Kerry. A nominal fee will gain you access (along with an information booklet) to the museum and its many interesting displays, which are self-explanatory for the most part.
When here, don’t forget to spot the Irish wolfhounds and the Kerry Bog ponies on the premises – they’re practically celebrities.
Don’t forget to stop by the Red Fox Inn for a cup of what is often heralded as one of the best Irish coffees in Ireland. Check out my page on the Kerry Bog Village here.
Burkes Horse Riding
When in or around Glenbeigh, you can try horse riding along the beach – a novel experience for many. Try Burkes Beach Riding.
Their center is located just off Rossbeigh Beach, and you can choose from one-hour or two-hour-long short treks, or half-a-day and full-day treks, depending on your comfort on horseback.
The guides are extremely knowledgeable and friendly, and a big part of what makes these treks interesting. Moreover, their horses are calm and well-trained, which makes them well suited to new riders.
Dooks Golf Course
One of Ireland’s oldest golf links courses, Dooks is a great course.
Voted as the most scenic course in Ireland, Dooks Golf Course is the perfect location to enjoy a game of golf on a well-maintained course while soaking up the panoramic views around you – the Atlantic Ocean and the Reeks mountain range.
The pro shop is well stocked, and the clubhouse has a bar and dining area, both of which offer some lip-smacking delicacies. In fact, if you don’t fancy a game, it could be a good idea to simply stop by for a meal.
The course itself is great – challenging yet fun – and the caddies are knowledgeable and friendly, which makes a game here yet more interesting.
Mountain Stage
Mountain Stage, as the name suggests, is a viewing point along the Ring of Kerry (N70) between Glenbeigh and Cahersiveen.
The layby offers the perfect photo opportunity, with Dingle Bay ahead of you and Rossbeigh and Inch beaches to your right.
Behind you, you can see mountain hills and, closer still, the remains of the old Great Southern and Western Rail line. The stop is a must if you seek those Instagram-worthy shots.
Caragh Lake
Located between Killorglin and Glenbeigh, Caragh Lake (or Lough Caragh), is a lake formed in a deep valley by the damming of the Caragh River.
The lake is a must-stop for fishing, boating, swimming, and kayaking. You can even explore outside the lake such as cycle around the Mountain Lakes and Bakers Buns Loop or hike along some of the many walking trails.
There are several providers you can contact for any of these activities, or you can reach out to Cappanalea, they arrange almost all of these attractions.
Those who enjoy fishing should definitely visit. However, anglers need a salmon license, and you must abide by the salmon and sea trout angling regulations, which are reviewed annually.
Jack’s Restaurant
Jack’s Coastguard Restaurant, one of the best specialty seafood restaurants in the area, is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with a complete fine dining experience.
The food here is delicious, the staff welcoming and more than willing to accommodate any requests, and the view overlooking the ocean is splendid.
They even have an in-house pianist, and soft notes of piano in the background more than elevate the whole dining experience.
In terms of the choices available, they have a decently sized menu with some impressive selections. Go here for a nice lunch or dinner – you’re guaranteed a good experience. Because it is so popular reservation is a must.
Killorglin
About 13 km before Glenbeigh on the Ring of Kerry lies the lively town Killorglin, famous for the country’s oldest and most unusual fair, the Puck Festival. Check out my page on Puck Fair here
A mix of the old and the new, the town features timed construction steeped in culture with a cosmopolitan vibe. Much like the rest of Ireland, natural beauty remains abundant in and around Killorglin.
Moreover, the town’s location makes it a popular destination. It’s close to the Kerry Way walking trail, serves as the access point to the Ring of Kerry on the Iveragh Peninsula, and overall, a location with great accommodation and dining options close to a number of tourist attractions.
While Killorglin is an interesting tourist spot in Southwest Ireland, its biggest claim to fame is Puck Fair, a festival celebrated every year from the 10th to the 12th of August.
Visitors flock to Killorglin to enjoy three days of festivities, which include bird’s amusements, traders’ stalls, craft fairs, horse fair, and fireworks. Beer is a staple throughout, and the energy and atmosphere here are fantastic. Check out my page on Killorglin here.
Conclusion
Often referred to as a Jewel in the Ring of Kerry, Glenbeigh is a magical little town in Ireland’s County Kerry, which offers a little something for everyone. From beaches and rivers to mountains, the diversity around Glenbeigh is vast.
With so many things to do in Glenbeigh, spend a weekend, or a week, in this magical town ideal for relaxing amid nature. When here, enjoy a game of golf, take a hike in lush green mountains, or simply sit back and enjoy a delicious meal – the choices are endless.
Check out my web pages on the Ring of Kerry Drive, The Skellig Ring and Slea Head Drive.