Friday, December 6, 2019

A Day Trip to Dingle Peninsula, Kerry Co., Ireland

Dunquin Harbour - Dingle Peninsula
Dingle Peninsula: Ring of Kerry is a well-known destination in Ireland among tourists. However, if you are looking for dramatic views, the Dingle Peninsula is a perfect choice. With beautiful views, scenic drives and amazing cliff walks, Dingle is known for its rugged beauty. During summer months, tourists flock to Dingle. There are loads of activities like surfing, boat tours, and whale watching. 
Inch Beach
Inch Beach is a famous summer destination and is one of Ireland's blue flag beaches. But if you love the beautiful scenery and would like to have the entire place to yourself, fall is a better choice. Nothing beats a long walk on a quiet beach. Minard castle ruins are a short drive from Inch beach. The ruins are on private property and are not accessible. But there is a nice beach with smooth round rocks next to the castle.
The next stop is the Dingle town. This is the only town in the Dingle peninsula. Dingle is a cute Irish town with restaurants and bars. Dingle aquarium is a nice stop for kids. Though the aquarium is not big, it has a good variety of fish in the display. The famous Murphy's ice cream shop is a short walk from the aquarium. Dingle sailing club is right across the aquarium. Boat tours to Blasket Islands start from this yacht club during summer months.
Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium
Slea Head Drive starts from Dingle town. It is most definitely one of the best scenic drives in Ireland. The views are breathtaking and with several lookout points.

Cross at Slea Head
Coumeenoole beach is just a short drive from the cross. Park the car and walk down the stone stairs to reach the beautiful beach. Coumeenoole beach is a gorgeous little beach with pristine views and strong waves. I find that the water in Ireland to be cold even in the summertime. But, you can see a lot of people enjoying the views and playing in water even in colder months.
Coumeenoole Beach
Dunmore Head is the most westerly point in Europe. Hike up to the cliff opposite the beach to reach Dunmore Head. The hike is steep and runs through pastures. It will take around half an hour to reach the top of the cliff. The views from the top are unparallel and well worth the effort.
Picnic Bench in The Middle of Rugged Beauty
Basket Island Ferries run from Dunquin Harbour every day during summer months. They offer day tours and ferry services to Blasket Islands. For an average tourist, Ireland is hard to reach and not convenient. Hence it's beauty is well preserved. If you want to be one with nature, and if you seek solitude and peace, Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland is your answer.
Dunquin Harbour
Clogher Head