The western coast of Ireland is unmistakably one of the most scenic places to visit in Ireland. Dingle was once described by National Geographic Traveler as “the most beautiful place in the world.” Dingle or “An Daingean” in County Kerry is a charming and colorful fishing and farming village.
Dingle is home to the Dingle Regatta and well-known Dingle horse races. Once a major port for fish, hides, and wine, Dingle Harbor is a highlight, still in operation.
As the largest Gaeltacht region of Ireland, visitors will immediately notice that few signs are in English, but rather in the native language. Irish heritage is very important to the residents and it is definitely refreshing to see the true Irish culture! Many families throughout Ireland send their children to the region for Gaelic language summer school.
Although the Dingle Peninsula has always been a beautiful place, it didn’t become popular as a tourist destination until after the release of the film, Ryan’s Daughter. The owners of our B&B told us that once filming began, it boosted the economy and put Dingle on the map for tourists near and far. It was a turning point, and ever since, the area has been booming.
After settling into the B&B, we set out in the car to explore the Dingle Peninsula. The Dingle Peninsula coastal loop was a dramatic drive full of narrow roads with majestic, awe-inspiring views. Although we arrived on a rainy and somewhat dreary day, the beauty of the peninsula was not diminished…Dingle is one of those places where words and pictures cannot fully capture the beauty of the panoramic views. You’ll just have to go see it yourself!
Slea Head Drive is a circular paved route around the peninsula. There are a large number of historical attractions and look-out points which are clearly marked by road signs. It is said to have over 2,000 monuments dating back to 4000 BC. Throughout the area, there are many hiking and biking routes. We really looked forward to riding bikes, but the weather was rainy and cold. It seemed dangerous to ride bicycles on the slick roads overlooking cliffs, so we enjoyed the warm and dry car ride. We opted for a self guided tour, but there are many companies offering Slea Head Drive guided tours with drivers.
We parked the car, paid a small entrance fee, and hiked up the hill to tour the Irish Famine Cottages. These cottages are preserved dwellings, maintained as they would have been during the years 1845-52. As we walked through the cottages, we could feel the suffering and hopelessness of its inhabitants. The haunted walls and furnishings tell the story of the Irish people and their struggle to survive the mass starvation and disease known as the Great Famine or Great Hunger. Throughout the cottages hung signs describing the history of the famine. Note: There are many mannequins placed throughout the cottages and they are scary looking! It definitely added to the haunted and nightmarish aspects of the site!
As one of the best preserved pieces of early Christian architecture in Ireland, Gallarus Oratory is another must-see on Slea Head Drive. It is a small beehive-shaped church built between the 7th and 9th centuries. The structure is made entirely from dry stones without mortar and the interior stays completely dry.
We drove by some other beehive structures. These were most likely single family dwellings. Once again, no mortar was used to build the huts, which is called corbelling.
There are many other attractions and things to do in the the Dingle area. If time allows, take the boat to the mysterious and beautiful Blasket Islands. Many travelers enjoy the day trip over to the islands and meeting the famous Fungie the Friendly Dolphin. The Blasket Islands were abandoned by settlers, but a lovely place to explore and pack a picnic lunch!
Ed says
Stunning — and so interesting!