Valentia has the earliest evidence of human activity in Southern Ireland - 6000 BC - and many other remains of man's occupation through the ages: Megalithic, Celtic, Monastic, Cromwellian, and Napoleonic. The Island played a special role in international telegraph communications, meteorology, and safety at sea.
The combination of a mild moist climate and contrasting terrains has produced an abundant plant, animal, and bird life in great variety.
Sheltered harbour waters and the exposed Northern shores provide habitat for a wide variety of marine life.