County Kerry
Dingle
Kenmare
Killarney
Ring of Kerry
Tralee
Dingle Peninsula and Dingle
The Dingle Peninsula is the most westerly point in Ireland and retains much Irish tradition and folklore. The town of Dingle and its environs is a Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) area, steeped in rich history and culture. This is a unique part of Ireland, with ring forts, monastic sites, castles, and ogham stones scattered throughout the land and a beautiful setting to compliment.
Stretching westward from the town of Tralee for 30 miles, the peninsula has a backbone of mountains, the highest being Mount Brandon, 3,127 ft (952m). The stunning scenery of the peninsula offers the perfect backdrop for many activities. Connor Pass offers spectacular views of Brandon Bay, Tralee Bay and Dingle Bay if the weather is clear.
Home to some of the most fascinating archaeological and geological history in the country, there is evidence that the region was submerged in water over 400 million years ago, followed by volcanic activity which left behind rhyolite, a rock still found at Ferriters Cove.
The earliest evidence of human settlement dates back to 3500 BC and the landscape is dotted with reminders of early Christian times. One of the most famous is the Gallarus Oratory, a dry-stone oratory in perfect condition which has withstood the elements for some 1000 years.
The Blasket Islands, west of Slea Head at the tip of the peninsula, were home to a community rich in tradition, folklore, culture, and the Irish language. Due to the ravages of time and the decrease in population, the Blaskets were finally evacuated in 1953 and an era ended. The lives of the people who once lived there are re-created at The Great Blasket Centre at Dun Chaoin, about ten miles from Dingle. Guided tours of the center, which features an extensive collection of photographs, audio-visual presentations, storytelling, and a scale model of a Blasket village, helps bring to life their experience as it once was.
Friendly locals, spectacular scenery, and great Guinness are what the Dingle Peninsula is all about.