Dzogchen Beara — Local services in West Cork

My wife and I just spent a week at Dzogchen Beara and left this morning with a deep sense of peace and gratitude. For anyone seeking true tranquility, this is the place. The ocean view is breathtaking and offers a different, equally stunning experience at every hour of the day.

What truly sets Dzogchen Beara apart, though, is the people, warm, compassionate, and genuinely present. Their kindness adds a depth to the experience that words can’t fully express. I’m already looking forward to returning as soon as possible.

The retreat has a meaningful history, beginning when Peter and Harriet Cornish purchased the land and dedicated it to spiritual practice and well-being. Their vision created a sanctuary that continues to support visitors from all walks of life on their path to inner peace.

If you simply want to take a walk, have a coffee, and relax with a lovely view, the café is open to all and includes a small shop with thoughtful gifts and items. For those staying longer, there are dedicated meditation spots with stunning views, as well as a full schedule of Buddhist retreats and activities, all detailed on their website. Highly...

I attended the Contemplative Walking retreat over the June 2025 bank holiday weekend. It was a wonderful experience in a transcendentally beautiful location. The Temple feels not of this earth. The centre itself seems apart from the unruly bustle of the world; offering calm, peace & reflection. At first I felt isolated, but then realised that was part of the charm. The sense of stepping away from it all. The walks were scenic, of no great difficulty but each of significant value. The spiritual care centre makes for very pleasant accommodation, and I may try a cottage next as they offered unparalleled coastal views. Meditation was expertly guided without fustiness by our friendly guides John & Bob. They were capably assisted by Mau and the centre's cheesecake aficionado Niamh :) The food differed from my usual diet but I really enjoyed it; the packed lunches on walks were satisfying and tasty & I've developed a new fondness for tofu! I arrived back not fully appreciating how much I'd learnt and a sense of quiet resilience unfolded over the following days. I cannot recommend Dzogchen Beara...

I am sure the wonderful weather contributed to our euphoria but this is ,after all, a meditation centre. Just a quick visit gave us all a spiritual uplift and a number of our group intend to return for a retreat. The route is well sign posted and easy to drive, although a little narrow in places. Parking is easy and well played out with an area dedicated for campervans. The cafe is well stocked, nicely run and reasonably priced. The terracs has plenty of tables with the most magnificent views of the ocean. The walks are varied with prayer flags and small altars at intervals. The new temple is well into construction and will be beautiful when it is finished. Everyone we met was quiet, polite, and respectful of each other and the location. A real gem to take a person out of themselves and get a new view of this world as it...