Portmagee Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Portmagee with our comprehensive travel guide. From exploring natural attractions to trying local dishes, this guide covers it all.


Introduction to Portmagee

Portmagee is a charming fishing village located on the southwest coast of Ireland in County Kerry. The village is known for its traditional thatched-roof cottages, stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, and as a gateway to the famous Skellig Islands. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Ireland, Portmagee is a must-visit.

List of Places to Visit in Portmagee

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre - Learn about the history and wildlife of the Skellig Islands before you visit them.
  • The Kerry Cliffs - A popular spot for photography, these cliffs offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Skellig Islands.

Natural Attractions of Portmagee: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Skellig Islands - These two ancient monastic sites are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for any history buff.
  • Valentia Island - A picturesque island with rugged cliffs, beautiful beaches, and historic landmarks.
  • The Ring of Kerry - This scenic drive is a popular tourist attraction and offers stunning views of the picturesque coastline.
  • Horse Riding - Explore the stunning scenery on horseback.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Portmagee

  • The Kerry Way - This 215-kilometer trail takes you through the majestic landscape of County Kerry and is perfect for hiking and biking enthusiasts.

Best Things to Do in Portmagee: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Tours to the Skelligs - Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to the Skellig Islands.
  • Fishing Trips - Fish for Atlantic salmon, trout, and sea bass in the village’s surrounding waters.
  • Sea Kayaking - Take a leisurely paddle through the calm waters and enjoy the stunning landscape from a different perspective.

Week-Long Itinerary for Portmagee

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the village of Portmagee and its harbor
Day 2 Visit the Skellig Experience Visitor Centre and learn about the Skellig Islands
Day 3 Embark on a boat tour to the Skellig Islands
Day 4 Visit the Kerry Cliffs for stunning views
Day 5 Explore Valentia Island
Day 6 Hike the Kerry Way
Day 7 Take a leisurely paddle in a sea kayak

Food and Drink Scene of Portmagee

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood Chowder - Made with locally caught seafood, this hearty soup is a staple of the village’s cuisine.
  • Smoked Salmon - One of the village’s most famous exports, this delicious smoked salmon is a must-try.
  • Irish Stew - This hearty and delicious lamb stew is a perfect comfort food for a chilly day.

Local Beverages

  • Guinness - This iconic Irish beer is a must-try when visiting Ireland.
  • Irish Whiskey - A smooth and flavorful whiskey that is a perfect way to end a day of exploring.

Where to Stay in Portmagee: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Moorings Guesthouse - A charming guesthouse located in the heart of Portmagee, offering stunning views and comfortable rooms.
  • The Valentia Island Caravan Park - A family-friendly campground located on Valentia Island.

What to Buy in Portmagee: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handicrafts - Take home a traditional Irish craft as a unique souvenir.
  • Smoked Salmon - Bring home a taste of Portmagee by purchasing some of the village’s famous smoked salmon.

Local Culture and Customs of Portmagee

  • Pubs - The pub culture is strong in Portmagee, and locals and visitors alike enjoy a pint and some conversation at one of the charming pubs.
  • Music - Traditional Irish music is a big part of the culture in Portmagee, and you can often catch local musicians performing in the village’s pubs.

Best Time to Visit Portmagee

The best time to visit Portmagee is from May to September when the weather is warm, and the village is buzzing with activity.

Do’s and Don’ts of Portmagee

Do:

  • Explore the village on foot - The best way to experience Portmagee is by foot, so put on some comfortable shoes and take a stroll.
  • Try the seafood - Portmagee is famous for its delicious seafood, so make sure to try some while you’re visiting.
  • Be respectful of the locals - The village is a tight-knit community, so be respectful of the locals and their way of life.

Don’t:

  • Forget to pack rain gear - The weather in Ireland can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to pack a waterproof jacket and shoes.
  • Litter - Portmagee is a beautiful village, so please do your part to keep it that way by disposing of trash properly.

Safety and Health

Safety in Portmagee

Portmagee is a safe village to visit, but always use common sense and be aware of your surroundings.

Health in Portmagee

There is a medical clinic located in the village, and a hospital is located in the nearby town of Cahersiveen.

Getting to Portmagee: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Portmagee

The closest airports to Portmagee are Kerry Airport and Cork Airport.

Bus Stations Near Portmagee

Bus Eireann operates daily buses from Dublin and Cork to Cahersiveen, a nearby town to Portmagee.

Other Options

Renting a car is a great way to explore the surrounding area and gives you the freedom to go at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Portmagee

The best way to get around Portmagee is by foot, but if you have a rental car, you can easily explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Portmagee: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Killarney National Park - This stunning national park is located approximately two hours away from Portmagee and offers breathtaking scenery.
  • Dingle Peninsula - Take a scenic drive along the Dingle Peninsula and marvel at the stunning views.

Conclusion

Portmagee is a hidden gem in Ireland and is waiting to be explored. From its picturesque harbor to the stunning Skellig Islands, there’s something for everyone in this charming village. Plan your trip and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Portmagee.

Route of the 1858 transatlantic cable Route of the 1858 transatlantic cable Portmagee and bridge to Valentia Island Portmagee and bridge to Valentia Island View across Valentia Island View across Valentia Island Kerry Cliffs Kerry Cliffs Ballinskelligs Castle Ballinskelligs Castle No signal on the Skelligs either No signal on the Skelligs either