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. Mount Brandon Walking Route from Faha, Kerry
Distance: 8.5km
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.
2. Glenteenassig Forest Park
Distance: 6.5km
If you’re looking for a more relaxed family-friendly forest walk then head to Glenteenassig Forest Park. There are a few different route options to choose from once you are there you can go for a short walk around the Lough Caum boardwalk Trail or do the full 6.5 km loop. At a relaxed walking pace this took about 90 minutes and offer some very nice views of the mountains. This is definitely a good bad-weather option.
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3. The Dingle Way (Dingle to Dunquin)
Distance: 20km
The Dingle Way is a 182km 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.
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4. Maghanabo & Annascaul Out & Back
Distance: 24 km
Last but not least we have an out-and-back from the birthplace of polar explorer Tom Crean Annascaul to Maghanabo and back. We are reluctant to include an out and back but this one is well worth doing. Starting in the town of Anascaul you can make your way towards Anascaul lake before beginning to climb. The terrain is a mix on this route but good hillwalking footwear is recommended as the open mountain at the top of the climb is very wet. You can descend down into Maghanabo. Waterfalls, and beautiful wild mountains, this is one for the list!
5. Conor Pass to Croaghskearda Loop Walk
Distance: 7km
The Conor Pass itself is Ireland’s 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
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