Declan’s is a lovely modern spacious home in an area known as Dunboy, just outside the fishing port of Castletownbere. Within walking distance of the house are the ruins of the seventeenth-century Dunboy castle and also a more modern ruin with a chequered history, called Puxley's Mansion it was a casualty of the burning of the 'big houses' during the War of Independence 100 years ago and of the more recent economic crash.
There are some lovely undemanding walks on his doorstep which offer spectacular out to sea and to the nearby Bere island.
Dzogchen Beara, a Buddhist retreat centre on the way to Allihies offers simple food but the views are astounding and the atmosphere tranquil.
A woman we met on the road told us we must sample the fish and chips by the Dursey cable car. Only average. Go for hake rather than monkfish would be my advice, as the monk was the tail and very bony.
Dereen Gardens near Lauragh was far more successful and we ate in a beautiful sunny garden among the tree ferns–fresh crab salad and leek quiche straight out of the oven. Mmm.
Beara is one of our favourite spots in the world and Declan's place is a very good base to explore the peninsula.