Ballydavid

Around the coast from Murreagh lies Ballydavid ( Baile na nGall ), backed by the mass of Mount Brandon and offering fine walks. A couple of bars stand at Ballydavid pier overlooking the magnificent sweep of the bay: Begley's (tel 066/915 5123; £26-33/€33.01-41.90) which offers fairly basic B&B , and the cosy Tigh TP (tel 066/915 5444) which has a good range of meals on offer both in the bar and in the restaurant alongside. Ballydavid also has a post office and a small shop. Brandon Creek (signposted Cuas ), just east of Ballydavid Head, is one of a number of contenders for St Brendan's sixth-century departure point, when he sailed off to discover the Islands of Paradise in the western ocean and, arguably, America.

Ballydavid (Baile na nGall) is a quiet fishing village on the shores of Smerwick Harbour with views of Mount Brandon to the east and the Three Sisters and Dún an Óir to the west.

Tradition is strong in this Irish Speaking area. The unique currach used for generations by fishermen on the western seaboard is still built here.

The village retains much of its traditional character and is within easy reach of Gallarus Oratory (and its new Visitor Centre) and Cill Mhaelcéadair, two of the best known archaeological sites in the area.

Radió na Gaeltachta, the Irish language station is situated just outside the village on Bothar na Léinsí.

Dingle Activities Information Centre is also located here.

A charter boat operator is based out here. The fishing grounds include Smerwick harbour and the open sea area north-west of the harbour. Ballydavid holds the Irish Record for Trigger Fish (1995).