Valentia Island
Valentia Island (Oilean Dairbhre in Irish), Europe's westernmost inhabited location, lies southwest of County Kerry in the Republic of Ireland. It is linked to the mainland by a bridge at Portmagee, as well as by a ferry which sails from Reenard Point to Knightstown, the island's main settlement. The permanent population of the island is 650, and the island is approximately 11 km long by 3 km wide.
Valentia was the eastern terminal of the first transatlantic telegraph cable, laid in 1857 and operated until 1966. Attractions on the island include the gardens of Glenleam House, and a grotto with a statue of the Virgin Mary.
Viscount Valentia is the courtesy title in the British peerage of the Earl of Mountnorris; and references to Valentia appear in the Earl's former lands in Worcestershire, England.
Categories: Islands of Ireland | County Kerry