Description
The Coomanaspig Pass offers a spectacular natural playground and stands out as one of the best things to do with kids in Portmagee. Reaching an elevation of 797 feet (248 metres) above sea level, this dramatic mountain pass is an official Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point where families can experience the raw beauty of Ireland from one of the highest coastal routes reachable by car. Children can look out over rolling green hills meeting crashing waves far below while parents capture sweeping, unforgettable panoramic views.
Prices start from £0.00, as this high-altitude viewing area is completely free to visit and accessible year-round. The site features a large, complimentary parking area directly at the summit lookout point. This cost-free structure makes it an incredibly budget-friendly outdoor excursion for families exploring the famous Skellig Ring route.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids to experience real Irish wilderness, this breathtaking mountain pass is an exceptional choice. The location provides an educational day out where children can discover local folklore, trace geographical landmarks, and spot distant Atlantic islands. It seamlessly balances outdoor sensory play in the fresh sea breeze with a simple, drive-up viewing platform that is completely manageable for young explorers.
Features
- Free
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
Key Features
- Sensory Play and Sights: Feel the immense force of the mountain gales and look out over cliff faces plunging dramatically into the ocean depths.
- Interactive Exhibits by Nature: Spot the sharp silhouettes of iconic coastal islands cutting through the horizon line on a clear afternoon.
- Educational Day Out: Teach older children about the local history of the valley, ancient transportation paths, and coastal island geography.
What makes Coomanaspig Pass unique?
- One of Ireland's Highest Drives: It is widely celebrated as one of the highest geographic points in the country that you can comfortably reach by family car.
- The Valley of the Bishops: Local legend tells an old folklore tale about seven babies saved here who grew up to become holy bishops.
- Painting-Like Descents: The dramatic road dropping towards the western side provides a visual experience often described as driving straight into an oil painting.
- A Quieter Coastal Experience: Tucked along the Skellig Ring loop, it offers families a peaceful alternative to the heavily crowded main Ring of Kerry.
- Multi-Peninsula Vistas: On exceptionally clear days, the expansive summit views stretch across the water all the way to the distant Dingle and Beara Peninsulas.
Inside the Landscape: What to See
- The Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point: The official, designated stopping section marked for families to step out and look across the cliffs.
- The Valentia Island Horizon: A panoramic viewing angle that lets kids look down over the unique landscape of Valentia Island across the channel.
- The Skellig Rocks Silhouette: Sharp rocky islands rising dramatically out of the open Atlantic waves miles away from the mainland.
- Puffin Island Lookout: A dedicated coastal overlook vantage point where families can try to view the shape of the offshore bird sanctuary.
- The Rolling Green Gradients: Vast stretches of vibrant Irish hillside dropping down steeply to meet the edge of Saint Finian's Bay.
1.17 miles
