The Dingle Peninsula is one of the most spectacular regions on Ireland’s West Coast. Moreover it is steeped in history, mythology and traditional Irish culture. There is no other landscape in Western Europe with the same density and variety of archaeological monuments. This mountainous finger of land, jutting into the Atlantic Ocean, has supported various tribes and populations for at least 6,000 years. Because of its remote location – and lack of specialised agriculture – there is a remarkable preservation of over 2000 monuments.
Tralee
Available April through October
Cycle the Dingle Peninsula $1350.00
E-Bike $600.00
Arrive in Tralee and check into your B&B (your bicycles will already be there). If you have time take a short cycle from Tralee to the lovely fishing port of Fenit and from there to the historic Ardfert with it’s newly restored cathedral and back to Tralee for your overnight stop.
Today’s cycle takes you from Tralee along the northern shores of the Dingle Peninsula with the Slieve Mish Mountains on your left and Tralee Bay to your right. The route takes you through Castlegregory before finishing in the picturesque village of Cloghane and your overnight stop for the night.
Leaving Cloghane you head for the village of Brandon and Brandon Point and then on and over the famous Conor Pass with its breathtaking views that stretch for miles. In the distance, you will see the fishing port town of Dingle and your stopover for the next three days. . Enjoy the beauty of Dingle and its surrounds for the next few days, cycling out towards the western shores and Slea Head with views of the Great Basket Islands looming in the distance.
Heading west from Dingle you cycle via Ventry to Slea Head with its magnificent breathtaking views across the Blasket Sound to the famous Blasket Island. From here you cycle on to Dunquinn and Ballyferriter on your way back to Dingle for the evening.
Today you cycle north from Dingle through the village of Ballydavid and on to Brandon Creek. Alternatively, if you fancy a walk you can leave the main route at the Bothar Pub and take the Saints Road up mount Brandon on foot. – Weather permitting. This is a 3 to 4-hour walk.
Cycling in an easterly direction by the shores of Dingle Bay you once again enjoy spectacular views and breathtaking scenery of this magnificent peninsula. Your destination is the tiny hamlet of Inch with its renowned and magnificent beach and ideal for a walk along its golden sands or a quick dip. On your way, you can detour to visit the village of Annascaul, home to the famous explorer Tom Crean.
Today’s route continues along the coast to the historical village of Castlemaine with its neat little harbor and splendid bird sanctuary. From here you head north and take the “short mountain route” back to Tralee and your last night’s stopover. This is a very historical area and on your way, you will pass the legendary mythological Queen Scotia’s grave which also offers fabulous views over Tralee Bay and North Kerry.
After a final breakfast and farewell, you leave your cycle behind you and follow your own arrangements for your onward journey.