Skellig Coast eyes a new beginning

The rise in Star Wars-related interest in Kerry’s Skellig Coast is prompting local tourism interests to widen the choice of attractions.

Businesses in the area suggest international exposure of Skellig Michael, since its use as a spectacular location in The Force Awakens, played a role in making 2016 the area’s best tourist season ever.

A strategy to develop what’s on offer on the Skellig Coast — part of the Wild Atlantic Way, stretching from Kells to Castlecove — is looking to deal with associated challenges. Among these are the limits to the numbers that can visit the island 12km off the coast, and its 6th century monastic settlement.