Irish Roadtrip pt. 3 | The Dingle Peninsula

Travel Guide
Written By Megan Petrie

Part three of my Ultimate Coastal Irish Roadtrip winds the perimeter of the Dingle Peninsula by way of the Slea Head Drive. Although the route is relatively short — about an hour with no stops — the beaches, quiet rural towns, and narrow twisting roads laden with sheep will easily keep you entertained for far longer.

Slea Head

Disclaimer: This post is based on my personal experience. Always double-check local conditions and do your own research before travelling. Any locations or activities marked with an asterisk (*) are ones I haven’t personally visited yet, but they’re on my list for next time based on recommendations I trust. Drive times are mapping-tool estimates. Ireland’s winding, narrow roads may have other plans.

Dingle town

Dingle Town

Drive time Gap of Dunloe to Dingle: 1 hour
Approximate time there: 1-2 hours

A quaint little colourful town on the coast. Dingle is the perfect stop before setting off on your drive around the Slea Head Loop on the Peninsula. While you’re here, stop for some fresh seafood at a locally owned restaurant, or simply enjoy the brightly painted town.

Ceann Tra Beach

Drive time Dingle to Ceann Tra Beach: 20 minutes
Approximate time there: 30 minutes-1.5 hours

Located a short drive from Dingle Town, you’ll find three miles of white sand in a protected cove. The calm waters are the perfect place for a dip before beginning on the Slea Head Drive. If you’re visiting in the cooler months, consider joining the locals in their love of saunas — dash between the cold water, the beachside sauna and back again!

Cross at Slea Head

Drive time Ceann Tra Beach to Slea Head: 15 minutes
Approximate time there: 15 minutes

This is a super quick stop at a viewpoint on the side of the road. There are a couple pull-off spots, one before the cross and one right across from it. Here you will find a white cross from which the site gets its name, but the truly impressive part of this stop is the views looking out over the Atlantic.

Tys at Dunquin Pier

Dunquin Pier

Drive time Slea Head to Dunquin Pier: 10 minutes
Approximate time there: 45 minutes-1.5 hours

The Dunquin Pier is a short walk down a steep, narrow road to the pier. I say “road”, but do NOT drive down, cars have been known to get stuck. No one wants to waste time or money with car trouble. Views of seastacks and cliffs create beautiful scenery. When we visited, a seal was in the nearby water, playfully poking its head out of the waves. 

Did I miss your favourite stop in the Dingle Peninsula? Let me know what I need to see next time below!

Megan Petrie