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Cahersiveen – Birthplace of Daniel O’Connell
(the Irish politician made famous for fighting for Catholic
Emancipation for the Irish people), and perfect
location for a stopover on the famous Ring of Kerry scenic route
on the Iveragh Peninsula.
Cahersiveen was founded on the
estuary of the river Fertha which flows into the beautiful sheltered
Valentia harbour which was a busy fishing and farming town in the
1800’s. In turn Valentia harbour connects a number of islands namely
Church Island, Beginish and Valentia Island (location of the first
telephone communication between US and Europe).
The town of Cahersiveen is surrounded by hills and inlets from the
sea which makes up some of the most panoramic scenery in Ireland.
There are a number of small but beautiful and sheltered
blue flag beaches
within a short drive from Cahersiveen and the town itself has a new
Marine Centre and Marina. Both Inshore and Deep Sea angling
are very
popular as well as many other marine activities such as Amphibious
Boat Tours, Harbour Tours, Skellig Tours, Rib Thrill Rides, Power
Boat Training.
Bed
and Breakfast accommodation in Cahersiveen
Views from Cahersiveen Marina
Cahersiveen is the perfect location to maximise tours on both
land and sea. There are many local hidden spots just off The Ring of
Kerry where one can explore the magnificent natural beauty of the
mountains, rivers, lakes as well as the seascapes and beaches. Walk
or drive to the top of Geokaun Mountain on Valentia Island and enjoy
360 degree views at the summit. Visit historic Valentia Island which
has a long established Slate Quarry where slate has been exported to
many Countries. Alternatively visit Kells Gardens near Kells Bay
approx. 14km on the Glenbeigh side of Cahersiveen.
Cahersiveen has a rich legacy of archaeological heritage and is
located close to many sites of prehistoric date (Neolithic-Bronze
age c2,400-2,000BC). These include rock art, megalithic wedge type
tombs, standing stones and stone rows as well as the presence of an
ancient field system. Artefacts from both the Bronze & Iron age have
been found near Cahersiveen. Other notable pre-historic monuments
such as the ringforts can be seen at Cahergal near Cahersiveen,
Staigue near Castlecove and Cathair Donall near Caherdanial.
There are numerous early Christian monastic sites in the area e.g.
Church Island in Valentia Harbour, Kildreelig near
Ballinaskelligs,
Church Island on Lough Currane near Waterville, Oilean Lochain, a
small island just off the village of Portmagee, as well as the most
famous of all at the top of Skellig Michael located 12 km out in the
Atlantic.
Cahersiveen has a number of excellent restaurants and as it is
right on the seafront, seafood is a speciality. However local
restaurants cater for a wide range of tastes and there is something
for everybody! Visit the beautiful Daniel
O'Connell Memorial Church and also The Old Barricks in
Cahersiveen town.
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