Kerry Cliffs

The Kerry Cliffs rise about 300 metres out of the Atlantic at the western tip of the Iveragh peninsula, and the reason people come is the view: the Skellig islands sit offshore, Skellig Michael with its monastery visible as a jagged pyramid on a clear day, and Puffin Island lies closer in. The cliffs are on working farmland and the owners charge admission at a gate, provide a car park, a short surfaced path and viewing platforms, and put a fence along the edge - which distinguishes them from most Irish cliff walks and is the reason some visitors object to paying while others consider it reasonable for the safety and the maintenance. The visit is short, ten minutes of walking to the viewpoints and however long you stand there. Fulmars and gulls nest on the faces, and the site is exposed to the full Atlantic wind.

What you actually see

• The cliff face - around 300 metres straight out of the Atlantic.
• The Skelligs - Skellig Michael and Little Skellig offshore.
• Puffin Island - closer in, with its seabird colonies.
• The managed access - path, platforms and fencing on a working farm.

When to go

April to September. Clear days are needed for the Skelligs to show properly. High wind closes the site; it is fully exposed.

Honest expectations

A paid gate on private farmland, and the visit is short - under an hour. Cloud or haze hides the Skelligs, which is most of the reason to come. The site closes in strong wind, sometimes at short notice.

Nearby

Portmagee and the Skellig boats are close; Valentia Island is across the bridge.