IRELAND: THE STAR WARS CONNECTION

The Ban Cheile* and I were fully charged and ready for our three-day adventure to South West Kerry to see if the Star Wars™ influence had changed the area in any way and also to enjoy a seriously chilled extended weekend break. If you’re a Star Wars fan you’ll know the cast and crew spent some time in and around Kerry while filming scenes for The Force Awakens and returned for the upcoming The Last Jedi.

I’m pleased to report that other than an odd, and I mean odd, reference to the brief, but important, Star Wars experience (like a three foot storm trooper challenging an equally diminutive sith lord in the window of a guest house in Portmagee and a few “Skellig Wars” t-shirts featuring green-eyed puffins in Darth Vader gear) the Kerry coast has been left with just some fond memories.

That’s not to say that the time spent roaming the high roads and low roads of the famous Ring of Kerry wasn’t an investment in pure pleasure, it absolutely was. Taking in the breathtaking views of the Skellig Islands, where Rey first encounters Luke Skywalker, makes you realise the beauty and power of the amazing Irish coastline.  Here are the photographic highlights of our three days soaking in the sun, sea and sensual pleasures on offer around the Ring of Kerry, part of the Wild Atlantic Way. 

Where in the world can you find your favourite stretch of coastline and why is it so special to you?

The Skellig Islands with the now famous Skellig Michael on the right

Another view of the Skelligs from the trail on Mount Geokaun on Valentia Island

Beginish Island and Cahersiveen in the background

You can learn more about Tom Crean the polar explorer in Kenmare

Check out ancient Irish writing on an Ogham Stone near Derrynane, the birthplace of Daniel O’Connell

Church Island, near Whitestrand on the Ring of Kerry

Whitestrand, near Cahersiveen