Ballydowane Beach

A Weekend Adventure with Bluey This weekend was truly special for our family as we welcomed a new member, Bluey, into our hearts and home. With the sun shining brightly, we took the chance to explore the enchanting Copper Coast, a hidden gem on Ireland's southern shore - Ballydwan Beach. Bluey, our newest companion, was more than eager to join the adventure, and the two-hour journey did little to dampen his spirits, thanks to the delightful company he had. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the breathtaking vistas of the coast, a sight so stunning it took our breath away. For Bluey, it was a day of firsts, as he gazed upon the vast expanse of the ocean, its waves whispering tales of the deep. The beach held secrets of its own, revealed to us through an informative sign that spoke of the land's ancient past. We learned that the green stones - behind us in the photo - were relics from a time when Ireland lay at the South Pole, enduring the fiery wrath of volcanoes, and are 460 million years old. The red rocks, a testament to an era when Ireland basked in the heat of a sandy desert near the equator, are 360 million years old. And the yellow clay, from which we crafted delightful pies for Bluey, is a mere 12,000 years old, a youthful creation from the aftermath of the Ice Age. For Bluey, this was more than just a beach; it was a 500-meter stretch of history, a timeline of Earth's evolution laid bare under the sun. His joy was palpable, and it was a pleasure to witness his wonder as he learned about the planet's dynamic history. Our day at the Copper Coast was a reminder of the beauty and history that surrounds us, often waiting just a short drive away. It was a day of discovery, not just for Bluey, but for all of us, as we connected with nature and each other. These are the moments that enrich our lives, bringing us closer to the world and to the ones we share it with. What a pleasure it is to have such treasures within reach, and what a joy to explore them with new eyes and a wagging tail.

Such a stunning location!

The road leading down to the cove is quite narrow, but there's good parking available at the end. The views near the sea stack at the entrance are stunning. Be aware of warnings about rip tides and falling rocks from the cliffs.

What a fantastic little bay. Perfect for photography, though parking is limited. If you manage to find a spot, you'll truly appreciate this beach.

I absolutely love this place for photography, especially for capturing sunrises and the Milky Way. It's also a great spot to take the dog for a walk.