Telegraph Field

Skellig Ring


Valentia Island was chosen as the eastern terminus of the first transatlantic telegraph cable, from Heart's Content, Newfoundland. A monument at Telegraph Field, at the western end of the island, commemorates the establishment of the first permanent communications link between Europe and North America in 1866. The telegraph station here continued in operation until 1966, when satellite technology provided a faster alternative.

Prior to the cable, it took two weeks to transmit information, as communications were sent by boat.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Skellig Ring attractions

1. Skellig Experience

1 MILES

Immediately across the bridge from Portmagee, this distinctive building with a turf-covered roof contains exhibitions on the life of the Skellig Michael…

2. Kerry's Most Spectacular Cliffs

1.7 MILES

Its hyperbolic name – and recreated dry-stone clochán with fake birds perched on top – aside, the view is indeed spectacular from this privately owned…

3. Geokaun Mountain

2.33 MILES

The local landowner has transformed the island's highest point, Geokaun (266m), into a network of easy walking trails and viewpoints, with a breathtaking…

4. Tetrapod Trackway

3.31 MILES

This string of small depressions in an exposed sandstone bedding surface next to the sea may not be as spectacular as dinosaur footprints, but these…

5. Glanleam House & Gardens

3.76 MILES

Built as a linen mill in the 1770s, this estate was transformed from 1808 when its owner established its 16-hectare gardens with exotic plants from around…

6. Skelligs Chocolate

4.03 MILES

At these gleaming open-plan premises, you can get an overview of chocolate production and taste the wares too. Samples are free, and chocolates are sold…

7. Valentia Island Heritage Centre

4.67 MILES

Inside the old school on the road towards Geokaun Mountain, this intriguing local museum has a treasure trove of artefacts that tell the tale of the…

8. Cill Rialaig Arts Centre

6.76 MILES

At the northern end of Ballinskelligs on the site of a village abandoned during the Famine, this contemporary art gallery with a circular, thatched roof…

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