About Valentia Island

Like the rest of Ireland, Valentia Island and its neighbouring islets are rich in ancient history. Across the island you will find cairns, dolmens, wedge tombs, standing stones, ogham stones, promontory forts, and the remains of early churches.

However, Valentia has something truly unique — the Tetrapod Tracks and the legends of Mug Ruith.

The Tetrapod Tracks are among the most important fossil discoveries in the world, providing rare evidence of one of the earliest creatures to walk on land more than 350 million years ago.

Mug Ruith, the legendary druid associated with Valentia Island, is said to have possessed mystical powers and is deeply rooted in Irish mythology. His stories form part of the island’s rich cultural heritage, blending myth and history in a place where ancient landscapes meet living tradition.