Construction officially began this week on a new project to upgrade the Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point at Bray Head, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry.
Following an investment of €2.13 million from Fáilte Ireland, the project will be delivered in partnership with Kerry County Council.
“The Discovery Point highlights a key destination along the Wild Atlantic Way, with its stunning views of Skellig Michael and [the] Dingle Peninsula,” said Fiona Monaghan, head of activities at Fáilte Ireland.
“Fáilte Ireland’s investment of €2.13 million underscores our commitment to the sustainable development of tourism and enhancing the visitor experience, while conserving Ireland’s rich heritage and culture.”
The Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Points were first developed in 2014, to showcase areas with the most spectacular views and unique historical sites along Ireland’s west coast.
The Discovery Point at Bray Head is one of 187 points along the 2,500-kilometre route, with each one marked with a distinctive Wild Atlantic Way signpost.
Bray Head – located at the most westerly point of Valentia Island – offers breathtaking views of the Skellig Islands, the south-west coast, including the Blasket Islands, Puffin Island, and the Portmagee Channel.
The Bray Head Signal Tower, dating back to 1805, is situated within an enclosure on the cliff face, and the focal point of this project. Once complete, the Discovery Point at Bray Head will complement the nearby Discovery Points at the Kerry Cliffs and Fogher Cliffs, on Geokaun Mountain.
The upgrade at Bray Head Signal Tower on Valentia Island has had significant input and support from Kerry County Council and includes a spiralling staircase leading to a viewing platform at roof level, which will provide spectacular views of the Iveragh coastline and the world-famous skellig.
