Ms Ulla Kinon is a practitioner of the art of alternative medicine. Her aim is to remove the stress from daily living and working. Anyone who knows the Beara Peninsula will know that if it's a stress-free environment you want, that's the place to be.
Ms Kinon, who is German, wanted to create a retreat in this setting and in 1994 converted an old convent in Castletownbere, which is within walking distance of the town. At Beara Circle visitors will find themselves relaxing amid some of the most beautiful scenery in west Cork. It is a place for contemplation, meditation and relaxation.
Ms Pat Farrell, one of the centre's nine hosts, says that initially the programmes were offered mainly to Germans. But increasingly Irish people are using the facilities.
The Beara Circle is not a health farm, says Ms Farrell, and its package of treatments along with its relaxed atmosphere makes it unique.
The idea is to teach guests how to cope with the stress in their everyday lives. Healthy diet, yoga and reflexology are part of the programme, but there is no pressure put on participants.
"Nowadays, people live a very pressurised lifestyle. We are seeking to give them a `window' each day, a method of relaxing and de-stressing even when they are at work. This may be achieved in a number of ways, whether through walking, yoga, deep-breathing exercises etc. We want to give people the tools with which to take control of their lives," Ms Farrell said.
The circle accommodates 31 guests, mostly in single rooms. The kitchen produces wholefood meals with a vegetarian option but also caters for those with special diets. There are lecture rooms and a restaurant, and guests can help with the organic gardening if they wish.