This photograph of the stunning Derrynane Beach was taken late in the afternoon in June 2011. It is a panorama photograph whereby 7 individual photos were stitched together to form a single image
The sheltered sandy beach is nestled in the natural harbour of Derrynane Bay and could readily be mistaken for a beach on a Caribbean island. Its crystal clear waters are a brilliant turquoise blue even on the dullest days. The beach is close to the village of Caherdaniel on the Ring of Kerry and right beside Derrynane House, the home of 'The Liberator' Daniel O'Connell.
The ruins of the Derrynane Abbey and the accompanying graveyard are on the aptly named Abbey Island and can be seen on the right of the photograph. The abbey was built in the 10th century and once formed part of the estate of Sir Walter Raleigh. It is also the final resting place of many of Daniel O'Connell's ancestors. The graveyard is still in use today.
(also see photograph of Derrynane Harbour)