Three reasons why Derrynane Beach in Kerry is my favourite relaxing place.
First is the natural setting. The long sandy beach with unusual rock formations is one of the most inviting in Ireland. There are spongy walks on the grassy area above the sand line. The mountains and sea around show little evidence of human interference.
The second is that it was the home of Daniel O’Connell, ‘The Liberator’. His house still stands much as it did in his day. Along with its gardens and walks, it is open to the public.
The third is Abbey Island, accessible by foot at low tide.
Derrynane means 'The Oaks of Finnian' and the Finnian in question was known as ‘Cam’ to distinguish him from the many other Finnians in the Ireland of the 600s and 700s.
‘Cam’ means ‘squint’ and indicates that he may have had a bad eye but there was nothing wrong with his sight when it came spotting outstanding locations.
After Derrynane he moved to one of the tiny islands that dot Lough Currane near Waterville and then on Innisfallen on Lough Leane in Killarney.
Obviously islands attracted him, they say he may have even been the first on Skelligs. Each time he may have being seeking greater privacy, today they all are active tourist centres.
However the remoteness of Derrynane still limits visitors and much of the timeless beauty that attracted Finnian remains to be experienced today.
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