Summer has arrived here in Carrig, and many of our guests are rediscovering Kerry. Whether you're visiting for the very first time or returning to create new memories, we hope our 3 favourite daytrips from Carrig Country House will help inspire your summer plans.
1. Reeks District
Let’s start in the Reeks District, on Carrig's own doorstep. Carrig Country House is situated in the heart of the Reek’s District, which stretches from Ireland’s highest peak Carrauntoohil (1,039m) to the Blue Flag beaches of Castlemaine Harbour. For many of our visitors, enjoying a guided climb to the top of Carrountoohil is a must; with its stunning vistas, it truly is hard to beat. If you prefer a more gentle walk, then you are in luck, as both forest walks and beach strands are close to the house, meaning you're spoiled for choice for invigorating walks.
The Reeks District has been dubbed Ireland’s Adventure Playground with its Five B’s.
1. Biking - for all cycling enthusiasts of all abilities.
2. Boots - for walking or hiking.
3. Boats - either on our freshwater lakes or rivers or taking to the sea.
4. Boards - catch the surf on the coast or grab a paddle board.
5. Body & Mind - sit by Caragh Lake for the perfect backdrop to meditate, unwind and relax.
Each time you return to Carrig you can enjoy a new adventure here in the heart of the Reeks District.
www.reeksdistrict.com
2. Skellig Coast
Enjoy a day trip along the coastal route of the Skellig Ring- with its westerly position, you'll feel like you're standing on the edge of the world. Take in the incredible views of the Skelling Islands from your perch on the Kerry Cliffs – Little Skellig, which is home to one of the largest seabird colonies in the world and Skellig Michael, a place of ancient pilgrimage and one of the wonders of the world. This is a Gaeltacht region (Irish-speaking), and as you explore this region you're sure to stumble upon many villages and small ports along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.
Rich history can be explored everywhere in this region, from the Tetrapod tracks on the shores of Valentia Island, the earliest footprints in the world, to the nearby site of the first Transatlantic Cable. On your day trip, take a visit to Waterville, the much-loved holiday destination of Charlie Chaplin. Along the way stop off to enjoy the signature Skellig Chocolates or visit the Skellig Six 18 Distillery at Caherciveen for a wee dram.
3. Slea Head and Dingle
The Dingle Peninsula stretches 30 miles into the Atlantic Ocean on the south-west coast, part of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, and Slea Head, beginning and ending in Dingle, is without a doubt its most scenic loop. It’s a day trip to remember, steeped in tradition, history, and culture, with incredible scenery, flora and fauna, friendly locals, and vibrant villages to see along the way. The Staircase to Dunquin Pier is a stunning coastal experience: as the Atlantic battles with the pier, this winding road down seems to defy engineering. It's an image synonymous with the Dingle Peninsula and a must-take photo for Instagram. While you're here, make sure to visit Dunbeg Fort and Gallarus Oratory for a look at some ancient architecture. For walking enthusiasts, the Dingle Way is a beautifully scenic long-distance walking trail on the Peninsula with a wide variety of routes to enjoy. Dingle itself is worth a stop too, with its famous distillery, electric vibrancy and many local craft providers, artisan food providers and incredible restaurants and cafes.