Through the Black Valley
The Black Valley in County Kerry, is a remote location in the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks situated south of the Gap of Dunloe and north of Moll’s Gap. While it is geographically close to the bustling town of Killarney, its ‘roads’ are not suited to the ubiquitous tour buses, so you will usually get a sense of just how remote it is. It is stunningly beautiful and is well worth a diversion from the well-worn tourist routes of the Ring of Kerry. The valley forms part of the Kerry Way, a walkers version of the Ring of Kerry beginning and ending in Killarney. It is also noted for being the last place in Ireland to be connected to the electricity and telephone networks due to its remoteness. The connection happened in 1978, according to a CIE Tour Guide.
For this post, the journey through the valley begins with the Gap of Dunloe. Once in the Valley, then travelling west to the Dromluska area to see the famous derelict cottage and re-tracing our route to rejoin the main road at Moll’s Gap, via Derrylea area.
The weather this day was suitably overcast, to add atmosphere. However, the clouds parted occasionally to give some nice light and a stunning sunset towards the end of the journey.
Stunning collection John, full of atmosphere.
Cheers Aidy. I think a cloudy day is almost essential for this location!
Stunning John, suffice to say that part of Kerry is unknown to me. What’s so famous about the cottage?
Thanks Roy. I’m not familiar with too many details about the cottage. I think its attraction is that it is considered to be a quintessentially Irish scene – and its remoteness adds a sense of adventure for anyone wanting to go look at it.