Looking like something plucked straight from a picture postcard, this charming Irish village offers the perfect retreat, brimming with tranquillity and vibrant hues, whilst boasting easy access to mountain trails and stunning sea vistas.

Nestled in West Cork, the village of Eyeries has earned its reputation as one of Ireland's most picturesque spots, renowned for its distinctively painted buildings that give the area an almost fairy-tale quality. The settlement is immaculately maintained, with residents taking enormous pride in keeping their streets pristine and their floral displays spectacular – efforts that have earned them recognition in the 'Tidy Town' competition over the years.

Beyond its striking architecture, the village is blessed with breathtaking mountain scenery on all sides and captivatingcoastalpanoramas across Coulagh Bay. This prime position delivers magnificent sunsets and serves as an excellent starting point for discovering the Ring of Beara.

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Located a mere eight-minute journey from Castletown-Bearhaven, the route connecting them is ideal whether you prefer to stroll, pedal or drive across the peninsula.

This particular circuit tends to see far fewer visitors compared to the Ring of Kerry, providing a much more peaceful experience for those tackling the celebrated 140km shoreline drive.

The bay itself remains wonderfully serene; as something of an undiscovered treasure, it doesn't draw large crowds of holidaymakers, making it an ideal sanctuary for relaxation.

What's more, the waters are perfect for a refreshing dip, whilst the pathways hugging the coastline provide excellent opportunities for rambling and cycling, with sweeping vistas at every turn.

The village boasts a delightful selection of places to enjoy a meal, pause for afternoon tea, or simply wander through whilst admiring the vibrant cottages. It's easy to see why creative types flock here, captivated by its distinctive character and relaxed ambience.

Popular haunts tucked within the village include the classic Causkey's Bar, O'Shea's Bar and Murphy's Restaurant. Given its coastal setting, seafood dominates the menus at local establishments, with diners consistently praising the quality in their feedback.

A visitor who ate at Murphy's, a local institution operating since the 1950s, posted an enthusiastic review on TripAdvisor. They wrote: "We had a gorgeous night in Murphy's. Wonderful, attentive staff who even offered to take a photo of us and turned on the lights outside. The food was a real delight- fresh seafood and beautifully cooked meat. Would definitely recommend!".

Another guest at the distinctive pink-hued Breen's Lobster Bar and Restaurant shared a review, saying it's "so worth the wait". They said: "Would plan my trip around this restaurant for fantastic, highest-quality fresh food, very well priced.

"Our waitress was fab and clearly knew her stuff and advised the fussy young one perfectly. Bonus was almost everything was gluten-free or available gluten-free. Very satisfied customer! Can't praise it enough."