Part of the Wild Atlantic Way, the Dingle Peninsula sits at the westernmost tip of mainland Ireland. Overlooked by Mount Brandon, winding country lanes crisscross the region leading to forgotten villages, prehistoric sites and sacred places. But the beauty of Dingle lies above all along the coast, on secluded sandy beaches where surfers can attempt to master the waves.

History

The peninsula takes its name from the town of Dingle. The region is also known as Corca Dhuibhne, after the tribe of Dhuibhne who lived there in the Middle Ages. Off the western coast, Great Blasket Island was the birthplace of great Irish writers, including Peig Sayers, before it was evacuated in the 1950s. Saint Brendan the Navigator is said to have passed through the village of Brandon north of Dingle during his voyage to America. Explorer Tim Severin retraced the route in the 1970s.

Exploring the Dingle Peninsula

"The most beautiful place in the world" as National Geographic once said, the Dingle Peninsula is a must-see stop on the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland. Wild hedgerows, splendid coves, exhilarating trails, ancient sites… Both inland and along the coast, the region has retained tremendous scenic beauty. In towns and villages, you'll discover a rich culture and a wide range of tourist attractions.

A dreamlike setting

The Dingle Peninsula combines all the charms of Ireland. On the sprawling Inch Beach in the south, the view over the sparkling waters refreshes minds sometimes numbed by travel. At night, it's an excellent spot to contemplate the stars. The Beál Bán beach near the village of Ballyferriter attracts just as many swimmers.

The northern shore of the peninsula is a paradise for surfers and windsurfers. National and international surf competitions occasionally take place on the region's beaches. Along the route between Dingle town and Castlegregory/Cloghane, you'll pass Conor Pass, which offers a splendid view over Brandon Bay.

If you're seeking photogenic spots, hop aboard the ferry to Great Blasket Island. The narrow, winding path to the ferry slip will already delight your eyes. On the abandoned island, you'll find old stone houses weathered by Atlantic winds. Flowering hideaways nestle in the heights, at the cliff's edge, from which you'll have a view of the curved beach of White Strand. Located at the western tip of the Dingle Peninsula, Dunmore Head promontory is ideal for sunset shots.

For hiking enthusiasts, Mount Brandon offers a pleasant half-day excursion. The circuit extends over 9 to 15 km, with breathtaking views across the peninsula and the open sea. The Ring of Kerry, travelled by car or bike, also covers picturesque landscapes.

Which towns should you stop in?

The harbour town of Dingle, located in the southwest in a natural bay, is the main hub of the peninsula. Meet the friendly dolphin "Fungi" who has lived off the harbour since 1984. Historically, Dingle is an artistic hub that welcomes numerous musicians, painters and writers each year seeking inspiration, or simply rest. The town has a vibrant nightlife; it's one of the top 10 best destinations to celebrate New Year's Eve according to Lonely Planet.

Birthplace of the famous navigator Tom Crean, Annascaul is a popular stop for hikers in the south-central part of the Dingle Peninsula. After an afternoon at Inch Beach with surfers and fishermen, visit Tom Crean's old pub, the South Pole Inn.

Finally, don't miss the Gaeltacht to the west of the peninsula. This cluster of traditional villages forms a stronghold of the Irish language, as well as musical and poetic tradition. Beyond its cultural wealth, the area boasts magnificent landscapes, notably at Slea Head, the westernmost point of Ireland, indeed of Europe (excluding islands). Other attractions include Kilmakedar, Dunbeg Fort, Riasc and the Gallarus Oratory.

When to visit the Dingle Peninsula?

Average temperatures on the Dingle Peninsula range from 9°C in January to 20°C in July. The region receives heavy rainfall from October through January. To fully enjoy the landscapes and activities, plan your trip to Dingle between May and August.

Dingle town is the common entry point for visiting the peninsula. It's accessible by bus from Tralee and other destinations on Ireland's west coast, Dublin, Cork and Killarney.

The loop route through the Dingle Peninsula measures just under 50 km. You can easily cover the distance by car. By bike, allow approximately four hours, not counting stops. If you choose cycle touring, it's best to start early, before 9am, to fully enjoy visits and rest breaks.

What to do on the Dingle Peninsula?

• Stroll along Inch Beach
• Visit Great Blasket Island
• Hike Mount Brandon
• Meet Fungi in Dingle Town
• Immerse yourself in traditional culture in the Gaeltacht, and more