Ring of Kerry, Ballycarbery Castle, and a Ringfort
After a day and a night in Dingle we set out to see the Ring of Kerry. We'd originally planned on taking a trip to Skellig Michael, an island to the west of Bolus Head on the Iveragh Peninsula which is home to a sixth century Christian monastery and more beehive huts. (Skellig Michael has recently become a tourist hot spot due to the new Star Wars: The Force Awakens movie.) But to get to Skellig Michael you need a boat and good weather. It so happened that the sea was too choppy the only day we were in the area, so no tours were going out. What rotten luck. We were super bummed about it, but I suppose it makes for an excuse to visit Ireland again, am I right?
Instead of Skellig Michael we had more time than expected to explore the Ring of Kerry. The Ring of Kerry is a 179 km (111 mile) scenic circular drive on the Iveragh Peninsula. We started out from Dingle and didn't have the time to do the entire circuit, but I feel like we saw a couple of really great sites. Above is a photo of the coast along the Ring of Kerry.
Aside from the wonderful coastal views on the drive, our first of two stops was at Ballycarbery Castle. According to the sign at the site, these ruins are probably those of "the castle of Valencyn called Ballycarborow" as referred to in a document from 1569. It's noted as a McCarthy More castle in 1594 and was likely occupied by the O'Connells as McCarthy wardens. Possession of the castle passed to Sir Valentine Brown after the death of Daniel MacCarthy More in 1596.
Ballycarbery Castle stands within the remains of a bawn, or a defensive wall, usually built of mud or stone, surrounding an Irish tower house. Currently on the west wall and the western portion of the north wall remain standing.
I really loved this site because of how old and mysterious it looked with the ivy vines climbing the castle ruins. It's probably not recommended, but we climbed up on the ruins for some expansive views. Just be careful where you step because there are gaping holes where the second story floors are missing, plus some areas may not be stable!
Might I add that it was super windy that day as my hair can attest to! This castle might not be as breathtaking as the Cliffs of Moher, but it's certainly something you don't see everyday...or rather I don't see everyday here in the US! I really loved this castle.
Afterwards we took a very, very short drive to Cahergall Ring Fort of Cahersiveen. Like the beehive huts in Dingle, this fort is built without mortar. This site has been extensively restored, but was likely constructed in the 8th or 9th century. Though called forts, these structures were used as residences and areas to corral animals.
The ring wall has built in stairs that you can climb to reach new heights. I don't usually have a fear of heights, but you can climb up pretty high if you choose. In the end my curiosity won out and I climbed to the top, which was definitely worth it for the views.
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