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A luxurious multi-centre, guided walk of the Dingle and Kerry Ways, staying
in a wonderful selection of hotels, manor houses and guesthouses.
The southwest of Ireland, washed by the Gulf Stream, has a mild climate - natives
call it sub-tropical. This is reflected in the rich vegetation, particularly the
wild flowers and hedgerows which contrast with the rugged coastline and inland
mountains and lakes. This tour gives an opportunity to explore the spectacular
landscape, the Atlantic coast, the thriving Gaelic culture, music and language
of both the Dingle and Iveragh peninsulas.
DAY 1 Arrival
Arrival in the beautiful harbour town of Dingle,
once fortified and steeped in history. It is the gateway to the Gaeltacht, where
Gaelic is the first language. Visit the numerous craft shops, pubs and restaurants
or take a boat trip in Dingle harbour to visit Fungi, Dingle's friendly resident
Dolphin. Overnight in Dingle.
DAY 2 The Dingle Way
Gaeltacht walk from Ventry Harbour along the slopes of Mount Eagle to the dramatic
Slea Head to Dunquin ("the nearest parish to America"). Visit Dunbeg
pre-historic fort, local pottery and the early Christian sites of Reask and Gallarus.
Overnight in Dingle.
Distance: 9.5km/6 miles Ascent: 600m/1,800ft
DAY 3 Mount Brandon Area
Coach trip through the scenic Connor Pass. Return to Dingle by old walking path
over the Brandon Range, which may have been used as the route to the workhouse
in Famine times. Overnight in Dingle.
Distance: 11km/7 miles Ascent: 825m/2,400ft
DAY 4 Transfer/Beach Walk
Coach transfer along Dingle Bay and Ring of Kerry to Sneem.
Experience the fresh Atlantic breeze as you walk along the beautiful Rossbeigh
beach. Overnight in Sneem, an award winning picturesque village.
Distance: optional
DAY 5 Boat Trip to Skellig Islands (weather permitting)
A group of rocky islands called the Skelligs lie 9 miles off the south-west coast
of Ireland. Skellig Mhichil was a monastic settlement from 600AD. Well preserved
stone beehive huts in which the monks lived, oratories, stone crosses, cemeteries,
holy wells and the Church of St. Michael remain here as they have done for centuries.
Overnight in Sneem.
If weather conditions are unsuitable, walk from Sneem to Parknasilla along the
inlets and islands of the coast.
Distance: 13km/8 miles
DAY 6 Killarney National Park
Visit the ruins of Muckross Friary and Muckross House and gardens. Discover the
unique flora and fauna of the parkland, perhaps see some of the last remaining
Irish Red Deer. Lunch in the Muckross House tea rooms. Afternoon free for shopping
and sight seeing. Overnight in Killarney.
DAY 7 Boat Trip through Lakes of Killarney
Boat trip in traditional 12-seater open wooden boat through the three lakes of
Killarney followed by a walk through the dramatically ice carved valley of the
Gap of Dunloe. Finish the day with an Irish Coffee in Kate Kearney's Cottage.
Overnight in Killarney.
Distance: 10km/6 miles Ascent: 200m/640ft
DAY 8 Departure
Depart for home.
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What your Guided Walk includes: |
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• Arrive in Dingle, Co. Kerry
• 7 nights accommodation based on 2 adults sharing superior hotels, manor
houses and guesthouses
• 7 Full Irish Breakfasts
• 6 Packed Lunches
• 7 Four Course Gourmet Dinners
• Boat Trip to Skellig Islands (Day 5)
• Jaunting Car Trip from Muckross to Killarney (Day 6)
• Boat Trip through Lakes of Killarney (Day 7)
• Experienced Guide throughout itinerary
• Luggage Transfers
• Notes and maps by Sean O Suilleabhain |
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