Spotlight on: Mannix Point Camping & Caravan Park

Mannix Point feels isolated, in the best possible way.

The site is situated 300 metres off the N70, the busy circular tourist route around the Iveragh Peninsula in Ireland. But, once you’re on site, the views on all sides are of sea, sky and mountains. And they’re stunning views.

We chose a pitch at the edge of the foreshore with Valentia Island across the water directly in front of us, and Bentee Mountain behind. Before setting up for the night, we took a short walk along the shore, listening to the unfamiliar calls of seabirds and admiring the vivid yellow lichen on the rock strata. It’s an immensely peaceful and wonderfully atmospheric location. The long-time owner of the site, Mortimer, has clearly made great efforts to create a welcoming environment for visitors.

The site is divided into distinct areas with a mixture of hedging, shrubs, colourful garden plants and wildflowers. The 42 pitches offer a choice of wide vistas, or more secluded and sheltered spots. An elevated viewing point has been thoughtfully constructed in front of the reception office with large maps illustrating the immediate area, and the layout of the peninsula.

The 25-mile drive from Killorgen to Cahirciveen along the N70 (the Ring of Kerry) offers clear views of the neighbouring Dingle Peninsula across the water, island-dotted coastal scenery, and ruins which date from both prehistoric times and more recent centuries.

Site facilities include toilets and showers, a laundry room with several washing machines and dryers, a kitchen/dining room, a cosy sitting room with an open fire and an outdoor veranda with tables and seating. Overall, the facilities were good and homely.

You probably could find more modern sites, but you’d certainly be hard-pushed to find one where as much care has gone into creating a space for travellers to quietly enjoy the spectacular scenery, socialise with other visitors in the communal areas or, indeed, do both!

Mannix Point Caravan & Camping Park
Cahirciveen, Co Kerry, Ireland
00353 66 9472806

This site review first appeared in MMM magazine, June 2020 issue, submitted by Sue Phillips.