Best things to do in Dingle

Cruise past stunning natural landscapes along Slea Head Drive, a circular driving route that begins and ends in Dingle. Start your journey driving across the Milltown Bridge and then past the Burham woodlands. Consider a stop in Ventry, a seaside village, to enjoy beach and water activities. Your trip continues westward past Dunbeg Fort and along the Atlantic Ocean. Take in views of the clifftop fort on one side and the ocean on the other.

Visit Skellig Michael, the larger of the two Skillig Islands, to see the natural beauty and the famous ruins of early religious settlement. The remains of the historic monastery, along with much of the Atlantic Ocean island, were named a World Heritage Site in 1996. The monastery was established on the island between the 6th and 8th century, but was abandoned in the 12th century. Take a tour of the island, weather permitting. If you like to dive, take advantage of one of the dive sites.

See Ireland's largest live shark collection at Dingle Oceanworld. Explore the variety of marine-life exhibits, such as the climate-controlled habitat for Gentoo penguins and the popular shark tank. The aquarium offers educational events and interactive opportunities like a petting area with stingrays. Children will enjoy the kiddie play area, and you'll have the opportunity to view fish feedings throughout the day. You'll also have the chance to learn about the aquarium's commitment to marine life conservation.

Listen to the drums and fiddles echo off the cliffs on Dingle Peninsula, a landscape dominated by the Slieve Mish mountain range and rugged coastlines and known for its rich Irish music tradition. Tall, jagged cliffs rise out of the waters, while sandy beaches offer some of the best surfing in Ireland, with certain areas also safe for swimming. Hiking trails range from challenging to easy and cut across the dynamic peninsula through mountains and over plateaus. The communities that live on the peninsula offer you fine dining, art galleries, and plenty of pubs with live traditional Irish music. Consider staying more than one day on the peninsula to experience all its natural and cultural highlights.

Get your head in the clouds at Conor Pass, the highest mountain pass in Ireland. Your journey follows a winding, twisting asphalt road that sometimes only allows enough room for one car to pass at a time. Along the way you'll see waterfalls, lakes, and cliffs; the high altitude allows for magnificent views of the coast. Avoid this trip in bad weather because of the road conditions.

Climbing out of Gallarus Oratory through its window cleanses one's soul, according to local mythology. Visiting the 1,000-year-old church proves this cannot be done, as the structure's window measures only 18 cm (7 in) in length and 12 cm (5 in) in width. Despite its small dimensions, the ancient church represents the pinnacle of dry-stone architecture, built using techniques originally developed by Neolithic tomb makers. The builders cut the stones with such precision that even after a millennium the structure exhibits a smooth finish on its outside walls. Take a walk around this simple structure to fully appreciate the level of skill needed to fit the stones so precisely together.

Stretching for 5 km (3.1 mi) along the Dingle Peninsula on Ireland's West Coast, Inch Beach attracts outdoor enthusiasts with plenty of space and a range of water sports, such as windsurfing, kayaking, hangliding, and fishing. The Blue Flag beach features a wide strip of soft golden sand that gently slopes into the clear, but chilly, waters. Tourist facilities include a restaurant, parking, and public restrooms. The beach can get crowded in the summer.

Climb 182 m (600 ft) above sea level to Eask Tower for breathtaking views of Dingle Harbour and the surrounding Dingle peninsula. The 10.6 m (35 ft) high stone tower was built in 1847 and provided work during the Great Famine. It features a wooden finger post that signals to sailors to let their sails down as they make their way into the blind harbor. The tower originally reached a height of 8.2 m (27 ft), however additional stone was added during renovations.

Shrouded in sea mist, the mysterious Great Blasket Island is known for the number of notable authors who wrote in the local dialect. A historical village on the island was once home to many writers, as well as a small fishing community. The residents left in 1953, but the tiny cottages they called home are part of a ghost town near the coast. From a distance, it makes for a haunting image; but don't be afraid to get a little closer on one of the guided tours that depart by boat from Dingle Harbor and Dunquin hamlet. The latter is home to the Blasket Information Center and museum, where you'll learn more about the island. Bring along drinking water, snacks, and a jacket for the day because there are no facilities on the island. Also, a pair of hiking shoes will help preserve your feet as you walk around grassy hills.

Set against a dramatic backdrop of sheer cliffs, Coumeenoole Beach attracts tourists and locals with its picturesque surroundings and stunning ocean views. The small, secluded strip of golden sand gets even narrower during the high tide. This wild beach is easily accessible from the small parking lot at the top of a cliff. Pay attention to the signboards warning against swimming in the strong currents. You can always dip your feet in one of the shallow pools in the sand.

Head to Ireland’s leading jeweler, the internationally acclaimed Brian de Staic Jeweller. Here you can watch jewelry being crafted before your very eyes, as friendly staff happily create one-off pieces based on your wishes. You can purchase rings, earrings, necklaces, and plenty of other attractive jewelry. The showroom sits by the waterside, allowing you to enjoy views over the neighboring river and surrounding hilly landscape.

Gain insight into the history of the great Blasket Islands at The Blasket Centre. This heritage and cultural center offers a look into all aspects of Gaelic culture and the community of the island, including its large literary legacy. Take a guided tour through exhibits, which manage to keep things as authentic as possible with English translations readily available. Along the way, you'll also enjoy some of the best views of the island. An onsite cafe and eatery serves up home-baked snacks and light meals, while the bookshop offers literary classics from the area and a large range of books on Irish culture.

Escape the chilly winds at Aqua Dome, an indoor water park that maintains its tropical temperature throughout the year. Take an energetic swim in one of the wave pools, or float down the lazy river. Changing rooms and public and private showers are available, and an on-site shop sells swimwear. If you'd prefer to stay dry, try out the indoor mini-golf or game zone within a classic arcade. Check the park's website for monthly discounts; note that these online-only discounts are not available at the reception desk.