10. Ballyheige

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Banna Strand and its backing dunes stretch south for 10 or 11 kilometers from Ballyheige Bay to Tralee Bay, with the mountainous Dingle peninsula forming the backdrop. The peninsula is home to Brandon Mountain, Ireland's second-highest.

Having cycled straight into the wind from Ballyfeetarekillingme, we were delighted to find the Mira View B&B (Eu. 30) so quickly, with wonderful views and a path from the garden down to the strand. Here we checked the pronunciation with Mrs O'Neill. The South Pacific jokes are on: it is 'Bali Hi' with a 'g'.

Gareth was the only one brave (or foolhardy) enough for a swim. I fed the remains of our breakfast to a score of jackdaws and four rooks. Later we all ambled on the strand before wandering into the main street to decide where we would have dinner. It was only after our leisurely pint that the panic set in.

The tour planning took it as read that since it was early season we would always find accommodation (so far so good), and that by staying in villages or towns we would always find somewhere to eat: wrong - not a bar meal to be had, and we rejected the hotel a la carte as too expensive. We ate in a chippy. It was cheap, but not exactly cheerful.

The view from the strand, early evening.

Mira View B&B overlooking the beach.

Friendly jackdaws

10. Ballyheige

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