Valentia Island Tours and Sightseeing offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the captivating natural wonders and rich history of this remarkable island. Visitors can embark on tailored tours, exploring dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and the remnants of the Valentia Slate Quarry. With private transportation, complimentary bottled water, and a piece of the First Transatlantic Cable, guests can enjoy Valentia’s stunning landscapes and captivating past. Whether it’s breathtaking views of Skellig Michael, the Valentia Heritage Centre, or wildlife encounters, these tours promise an unforgettable adventure. What secrets and surprises await those who explore the enchanting island of Valentia?
Key Points

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Valentia Island offers diverse natural landscapes, including dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and tranquil bays, as well as historical attractions like the First Transatlantic Cable Station.
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The private tour service provides transportation in a private vehicle with complimentary bottled water, and includes a piece of the First Transatlantic Cable of 1866.
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The tour highlights geological marvels, such as the iconic Skellig Islands, Bray Head sea cliffs, and Geokaun Mountain, showcasing the island’s unique rock formations and wildlife.
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The Valentia Heritage Centre and Ballycarberry Castle ruins offer insights into the island’s rich history spanning centuries, including its role in connecting Europe and North America.
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The tour is stroller accessible and operates in all weather conditions, making it a suitable option for a range of visitors, with the recommendation to pack appropriate clothing.
Tour Overview and Details
Valentia Island Tours offers a private tour service that provides hotel pickup and drop-off at your accommodation.
The tour is transported by a private vehicle and includes complimentary bottled water as well as a piece of the First Transatlantic Cable of 1866 carried on the bus.
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so appropriate dress is recommended. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is stroller accessible with infant seats available.
Guests can join the tour at the Ted Kennedy Bus Hire & Taxi Service in Cooil Cooilwest Valentia Island or at alternative pickup locations in Valentia Island, Portmagee, and Cahersiveen.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ring of Kerry.
Meeting and Pickup Information

The meeting point for the Valentia Island Tour is Ted Kennedy Bus Hire & Taxi Service, located at Cooil Cooilwest Valentia Island, Cool West, Co. Kerry, V23 NA43, Ireland.
However, the tour also offers alternative pickup locations in Valentia Island, Portmagee, and Cahersiveen, all within County Kerry.
At the end of the tour, the activity will return you back to the original meeting point.
The tour includes the following convenient features:
- Private vehicle transportation
- Bottled water
- A piece of the First Transatlantic Cable of 1866 carried on the bus
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so guests are advised to dress appropriately for the day’s climate.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Although the Valentia Island Tour has a price starting from €163.94 per group (up to 10 people), customers have the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, allowing for last-minute changes in plans. With this policy, travelers can book the tour with confidence, knowing they can adjust their schedule if necessary.
The tour is available at the start time of 12:30 AM, and confirmation is received upon booking. Customers can enjoy the tour, secure in the knowledge that they’ve the option to cancel or reschedule if needed.
Tour Availability and Participation
The Valentia Island Tours operate with a start time of 12:30 AM, and customers receive confirmation upon booking.
This private tour service isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Most travelers can participate, as this is a private tour where only your group will take part.
- Tour operates in all weather conditions, so appropriate dress is recommended.
- Service animals are allowed, and infant seats are available.
- Strollers are accessible, making the tour suitable for families.
Tour Highlights: Valentia Island
Valentia Island’s diverse natural landscapes and historical attractions captivate visitors throughout the tour. Guests marvel at the dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and tranquil bays that dot the island.
They’ll explore the remains of the Valentia Slate Quarry, once a thriving industry, and discover the island’s role in the first Transatlantic Cable.
The iconic Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage site, can be seen from select viewpoints.
Travelers learn about the island’s unique heritage through visits to the Valentia Heritage Centre and Geokaun Mountain and Cliffs.
With stunning scenery and fascinating history, Valentia Island offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Exploring Valentia Island’s History
As visitors explore the island’s captivating landscapes, they’ll uncover Valentia’s rich history that spans centuries. From the ancient Skellig Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to the First Transatlantic Cable Station, which connected Europe and North America in 1866, the island holds a wealth of historical significance.
Highlights include:
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The Valentia Island Heritage Center, which showcases the island’s geological and maritime history.
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The Slate Quarry, where the slate used to roof many of Ireland’s historic buildings was extracted.
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The Ballycarberry Castle ruins, a 15th-century fortified tower house that offers stunning ocean views.
This captivating island boasts a tapestry of history, inviting visitors to explore its past and uncover the stories that have shaped its unique character.
Natural Wonders of Valentia Island
Captivating landscapes and geological marvels define the natural beauty of Valentia Island. Home to the iconic Skellig Islands, the island boasts rugged cliffs, serene beaches, and a rich array of wildlife.
Visitors can explore the dramatic Bray Head, where towering sea cliffs offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The stunning Geokaun Mountain and Fogher Cliffs showcase the island’s geological history, with stunning rock formations and panoramic vistas.
Nature enthusiasts can spot seabirds, seals, and even pods of dolphins along the coast. Whether hiking through the lush greenery or marveling at the island’s geological wonders, Valentia Island captivates visitors with its natural splendor.
Practical Tips for Your Tour
What should visitors keep in mind when planning their Valentia Island tour?
First and foremost, the tour operates in all weather conditions, so packing appropriate clothing is essential.
Plus, the tour provides a piece of the First Transatlantic Cable of 1866 as a unique souvenir.
Finally, the tour is private and caters only to your group, ensuring a personalized experience.
- The tour operates in all weather conditions, so pack accordingly.
- A piece of the First Transatlantic Cable of 1866 is included as a souvenir.
- The tour is private and tailored to your group’s needs.
Since You Asked
What Languages Do the Tour Guides Speak?
The tour guides speak English as they provide private tours in Ireland. Specific language capabilities are not mentioned in the tour overview, so it’s unclear if additional languages are offered.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Accommodations Provided?
The tour does not mention any dietary restrictions or accommodations provided. Bottled water is the only refreshment included. Guests should inform the tour operator of any special dietary needs when booking the tour.
Can We Make Stops Along the Tour for Photo Opportunities?
According to the tour details, the private vehicle tour allows for photo stops along the way. Participants can make use of the tour’s flexibility to capture memorable photos during the experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Limitations for the Tour?
The tour has no age restrictions, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Infants’ car seats are available, making the tour accessible for families. Most travelers can participate in this private tour.
What Should We Bring With Us for the Tour?
The tour includes bottled water and a piece of the First Transatlantic Cable, so travelers don’t need to bring much else. However, wearing appropriate attire for the weather conditions is recommended to ensure a comfortable experience.
The Sum Up
Valentia Island Tours and Sightseeing offers an unforgettable experience to explore the island’s captivating natural beauty and rich history. From dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches to the remnants of the Valentia Slate Quarry, guests can enjoy a tailored adventure. With convenient transportation and exclusive souvenirs, this tour promises a memorable exploration of Valentia Island’s wonders.
