Holiday Home in South Kerry

Skellig Michael, also called Great Skellig, is the larger of the two Skellig Islands, situated eight miles out into the Atlantic off the South West coast of Kerry. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Skellig Michael, often referred to as a rock rising up out of the ocean, was continuously inhabited by the Skellig Monks for over six hundred years, from the sixth to the twelfth century. Eventually, due to the harsh weather conditions of the wild Atlantic, and their vulnerability to attack and plunder, the monks moved to the mainland and founded a monastery in Ballinskelligs in the South West corner of County Kerry. The remains of the monastery and the surrounding graveyard are now a part of the rich Ballinskelligs heritage. Skellig Michael, meanwhile, has been heavily used as a film location in the recent Star Wars movies. Its rugged terrain and location, being particularly attractive to the film producers. Access to Skellig Michael is via Government licensed passenger boats. These can be booked locally and boats depart from Ballinskelligs pier and from Portmagee, returning to the same location, weather permitting. The season normally runs from the middle of May to the end of September and advanced booking is advised.

Cahersiveen is the closest town and is about 15 Km. Waterville, a favourite holiday destination for Charlie Chaplin, featuring two world class golf courses is also about 15 Km away. Fishing, deep sea and lake, is also available locally. The beautiful fishing village of Portmagee is about 15 Km away. This village is also the gateway to the historical Valentia Island, where the first trans Atlantic telegraph cable came ashore.