Location Atlantic Ocean Population 0 | County Kerry Province Munster | |
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Beginish (from Irish: Beiginis, meaning "small island") is an island in Valentia Harbour, in south west Kerry, Ireland.
Contents
Map of Beginish Island, Beginish, Co. Kerry, Ireland
Geography
Beginish Island is currently uninhabited, the last remaining residents being 2 elderly brothers who left the island in the 1990s. There are a small number of holiday homes on the island which are used seasonally. The island is used for sheep farming and some small scale forestry, and by tourists in the summer months who use the island's beaches for recreational purposes.
Surrounding Beginish are other small islands, including Lamb Island to the north and Church Island to the east. Church Island is notable for having the remains of a monastic settlement with an oratory and hut, holy well and shrine.
History
The island has numerous archaeological sites, including a Viking settlement occupied between the 10th and 12th centuries, which consists of a circular stone dwelling, outhouse and a midden. Also occupying the highest point on the western end of the island is a block hut known as "Pilots lookout", which was used in the 19th and early 20th century to spot ships coming into Dingle bay which may have required pilotage into Valentia harbour.
Environment
Beginish is host to a seal colony located in a cove on the southern part of the island named Casey's landing, and has abundant bird and sea life. On the northern edge of the island is a series of basalt cliffs which have a hexagonal shape formed in a similar manner to the famous Giant's Causeway.
Sport
An annual swim of approximately 4 miles (6.4 km) takes place around the island each year, organised by the local triathlon club.