The Top 5 things you better not miss in Beara this summer

Just like a cold glass of lemonade hits the spot on a hot summer day, exloring the Beara Peninsula is the perfect way to spend a weekend (or more!) this summer.

And that’s exactly how I’ll spend this upcoming weekend.

There’s so much to do and see in Beara and I’m pretty sure you’re going to love it. To make your stay easier and less overwhelming, here are my Top 5 in Beara for this summer.

Keep it going, friends! How are your summer plans shaping up? Are you coming to Beara this summer? Send me a DM on Instagram if you are!

5 A Walk at Dunboy and a dip at Pulleen

What’s your favourite outdoor activity? As the weather is warming up here in Beara, I’m LOVING the long walks with the dogs and a dip at Pulleen Harbour every now and then (if I’m brave enough!). Sea swimming is so refreshing, isn’t it?

Whether it’s a walk or a dip, it is so refreshing to spend time in the great outdoors and it’s perfect to clear my mind and get some exercise!

The loop walk at Dunboy Castle & Puxley Manor is one of the most beautiful I know and it offers great views of Bere Island and the lighthouse, Castletownbere, Sheep’s Head and Mizen Head.

4 Pony Trekking along the Beara Bridle Way

Anyone else a hot mess with directions? I could get lost on the way to my refrigerator... it’s true!

That’s why The Beara Bridle Way is such a great idea! It’s not only Ireland’s only bridle way, it also offers stunning views of the Beara Peninsula and is the perfect way to relax, enjoy nature AND have fun!

Visit http://www.bearabridleway.com for more information.

3 Iced lattes and delicious homemade snacks at Catcha Coffee

Some coffee places are delicious and some coffee places are fun, but guess what?

Catcha Coffee is BOTH, and you should definitely be ready to enjoy the whole package!

Views of Castletownbere, the valley, harbour, right down into the Bantry Bay, Hungry Hill, Bere Island, Sheep’s Head, Mizen Head… AND delicious coffee, homemade snacks and THE BEST iced latte on top.

Stop at Gour / Castletownbere between 10am and 5pm Thursday-Tuesday to taste it for yourself.

2 A dip, good music and great food in Allihies

Allihies … you have to experience it yourself this summer. Go for a short dip to freshen up on a hot summer’s day, enjoy delicious food at Beara Barista right at the beach and then head up to the village for drinks, live music and more great food at Murphy’s Dursey.

Beara Barista offers great coffee and divine, homemade, gluten-and vegan-aware food. The waffles are to die for and the burgers… don’t even get me started. Enjoy your food at the beach with a nice coffee or some refreshing Kombucha.

O’Neills in Allihies village is the place to be if you fancy drinks. You might even get lucky on a Sunday for some great trad sessions.

Murphy’s Dursey offers the BEST fish & chips I’ve ever had, all locally sourced and with so many gluten-free options … you’ll love it, trust me!

1 Enjoy strolling through Castletownbere (while having snacksssss along the way 😍)

Castletownbere, or Castletown Berehaven (or just ‘Castletown’ as it’s known locally, is not only the biggest town on the Beara Peninsula. It’s also a must-see if you’re around and a true hidden gem in the southwest (if you ask me).

Castletown is where I spent most of my childhood. Rainy winters with heavy fog that turned our garden into a secluded world of its own. Beautiful summer days that were spent at the beach or with the ponies, exploring the unique and spectacular landscape of Beara.

Moving back here has been the best decision of my life so far and I’m sure you’ll fall in love with Beara too.

Castletownbere is situated on the Beara Peninsula, on the lip of the Bantry Bay, tucked beside the sea and surrounded by my favourite Slieve Miskish mountains and the majestic Caha Mountains, with Hungry Hill being the highest peak.

While I can only recommend spending more than one day in and around Castletownbere, I know you sometimes just don’t have the time.

So why not spend a day or a few hours strolling around the town and harbour, have breakfast at Lynch’s (gluten-free options), get (the best) coffee and gluten-free treats at Taste, have lunch at MacCarthy’s bar and go for drinks at Twomey’s.

Enjoy!