Barleycove dunes formed 'overnight' thanks to Portuguese earthquake 

Barleycove's tsunami dunes are set to become a site of international significance. Picture: Anthony Beese

Local folklore in West Cork has it that the famed sand dunes and strand in Barleycove sprung up following one of Europe's greatest natural disasters more than 250 years ago.

Dr Anthony Beese, a long-time geologist based in Rosscarbery, believes he has unearthed compelling evidence to suggest the legends are true.