Hikes on the Dingle Peninsula: 5 of the Best

Run away to the rolling hills of the Dingle Peninsula and go explore some of these stunning hikes.

The Dingle Peninsula is without a doubt one of the most beautiful parts of Ireland. It’s a fairly remote spot stretching 30 miles out into Ireland’s Atlantic Ocean. It is the Ireland of myths and folklore, harsh climates, jagged cliffs, gruelling climbs, friendly people, the Irish language and some stunning hikes. Anywhere that is referred to as ‘the most beautiful place on earth’ by National Geographic, leaves little doubt that it’s going to be a good one. So experience the best of the Dingle Peninsula on some of these hikes.

1. Conor Pass to Croaghskearda Loop Walk

Distance: 7km

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The Conor Pass itself is Irelands highest open mountain pass and it has got to be one of the most beautiful places in Ireland. And you are far better experiencing it on two feet than from out of a car window. The Conor Pass to Croaghskearda Loop walk will take you about 3.5 hours. It encompasses the summit of Croaghskearda Mountain at 608m. Once there, bask in those idyllic summit views of mountains and corrie lakes.

More info: Active Me

2. Meelin Hill – The 3 Peaks of Annascaul

Distance: 7.5km

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This walk is a bit of a beaut, encompassing the three peaks of the Brackloon. The views from which you will see the Slieve Mish mountains, Dingle Bay and the stunning Inch beach. The start point for this walk is the walking information board at Annascaul. It will take approximately 2.5 hours to complete this 7.km hike.

More info: Active Me

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3. The Dingle Way (Dingle to Dunquin)

Distance: 20km

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The Dingle Way is a 162km long-distance trail around the Dingle Peninsula. If you are not feeling up to a mad distance like that, don’t worry it can easily be split up into more manageable chunks. The Dingle to Dunquin section is one of our favourites, but at 20km long, it will take you a good seven hours to complete. The Dingle Way is waymarked but be sure to carry an OS map with you for safety. Enjoy the views of Mount Eagle, the Blasket and Slea Head.

More info: Dingle Way

4. Mount Brandon Walking Route from Faha, Kerry

Distance: 8.5km

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At 925m, Mount Brandon is the country’s highest peak outside of the iconic MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. Anybody with an interest in nature, photography, history or geology will love this route. For the photographers and geologists, there is the paternoster lakes, Lough Cruttia (Harp Lake) and Nalacken (Duck Lake). For the history buffs, there is the German fighter plane wreckage from 1940 and St Brendan’s Oratory. This four hour trail will bring you on a journey through the very best of Irish mythology and history. Start the walk at the car park near the Faha Grotto.

More info: Active Me

5. Maghanabo & Glennahoo Valley Loop Walk

Distance: 10km

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Last but not least, this route through the mountain pass to Annascaul is a perfect example of a u-shaped valley. Take in the superb views of Annascaul Lake as you hike along the four and a half hour Machanabo and Glennahoo River Valley Loop Walk. A particularly rewarding part of this trail is the great ridge walk to Beenbo Mountain (474m).

More info: Active Me

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