Overview
Rossbeigh Strand Tower is more than a scenic landmark; it is a physical manifestation of community resilience. Standing near the village of Glenbeigh in County Kerry, this restored beacon tells the story of the Atlantic’s power and the determination of locals to preserve their heritage. Though it no longer stands on the sandspit it once guarded, the tower remains a focal point for visitors exploring one of Ireland’s most dynamic coastal landscapes.
The structure is a replica, built from the stones of the original tower that collapsed in 2011. It offers a quiet, contemplative space where visitors can learn about the history of the area while enjoying clear views toward the Iveragh Peninsula. Access is free, and the tower is situated just a short walk from the amenities of Glenbeigh and the expansive Rossbeigh Strand.
A Story of Resilience: History & Restoration
The sandspit at Rossbeigh has long acted as a natural barrier against the Atlantic, protecting the waters of Castlemaine Harbour and creating a rich habitat for wildfowl. The original tower, erected in the late 19th century, served as a vital visual cue for mariners navigating the often-treacherous entrance to the harbour.
The coastline, however, is constantly shifting. In the winter of 2008, a series of severe storms ripped a 1,200-foot section of the dune system away, breaching the spit and turning the outer section into a tidal island. The erosion weakened the tower’s foundations, and by February 2011, the structure finally gave way to the sea.
Rather than accept the loss, the local community rallied. Volunteers and authorities worked to dismantle the remaining masonry, rescuing as much of the original stonework as possible. The stones were transported to Glenbeigh, where the tower was reconstructed on a small plot near the village centre. The rebuilt tower retains the lantern-style roof of the original, though it is decorative and does not function as an active lighthouse. It stands today as a tangible link between the historic coastline and the present-day community.
Exploring the Tower and Strand
Visitors can explore the replica tower freely at any time. The stone façade and elevated position offer excellent photo opportunities, particularly in the late afternoon when the light catches the stonework against the backdrop of the peninsula.
Just a short distance from the tower lies Rossbeigh Strand itself, a seven-kilometre stretch of white sand that curves along the coast. The beach holds Blue Flag certification, reflecting its high water quality and safety standards. During the summer months, the strand comes alive with swimmers, surfers, and families. The Tír na nÓg (Land of Youth) Playground, located near the southern end of the beach, provides a safe and engaging space for children, complete with sea views.
Activities and Walks
The area around the tower and strand offers a range of activities for all fitness levels:
- Rossbeigh Hill Loop Walk: For those seeking a challenge, a 10 km loop begins at the south end of the beach and climbs to the 274 m summit of Rossbeigh Hill. The ascent rewards walkers with panoramic vistas of Dingle Bay, the surrounding mountains, and the coastline stretching north and south.
- Birdwatching: The dunes and salt-marshes surrounding the area are part of the Castlemaine Harbour Special Area of Conservation. Keep an eye out for curlews, Brent geese, and the occasional red-billed chough, especially during the winter months when migratory birds gather.
- Horse-Riding: The Rossbeigh Beach Horse-Riding Centre, located near the tower, offers lessons and guided beach rides. The area is also known for traditional horse races held each summer, a unique cultural event that draws spectators from across the region.
- Dune Exploration: Walk the edges of the strand to observe the ever-changing dune systems. Scientists from University College Cork monitor the area, noting how displaced sand often re-deposits further out, slowly rebuilding the lost dunes over time.
Practical Information
- Admission: Free entry. The tower and surrounding beach are open to the public year-round.
- Parking: A large free car park is located at the south end of Rossbeigh Strand. The area includes designated spaces for limited-mobility visitors.
- Facilities: Public toilets are situated approximately 100 metres from the promenade. A picnic area is available nearby, and several cafés and shops can be found in Glenbeigh village within walking distance.
- Accessibility: The replica tower is set on level ground with step-free access. The path from the car park to the tower area is also accessible.
- Getting There: From the Ring of Kerry, follow signs to Glenbeigh and continue south on the R561 for approximately five minutes. Public transport options are limited; the nearest Bus Éireann stop is in Glenbeigh village.
- Contact: For inquiries regarding the tower or local events, contact Kate Kennelly, Kerry Arts Officer, at arts@kerrycoco.ie or +353 66 7183541.
Nearby Attractions
The restored tower serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider region. To the east, Banna Strand offers another Blue Flag beach known for its dunes and historical connections to the 1798 rebellion.
Inland, the village of Killorglin is renowned for the annual Puck Fair, one of Ireland’s oldest festivals. For nature lovers, the subtropical gardens and historic estate at Kells Bay House are a short drive north, while the Kerry Bog Village Museum provides an immersive look at traditional Irish rural life. Further afield, Killarney National Park and the Gap of Dunloe offer world-class scenery and hiking trails.
Rossbeigh Strand Tower stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Kerry coastline. A visit here combines a walk along one of Ireland’s finest beaches with a meaningful connection to local history and community effort.