What to see on the Dingle Skellig Peninsula Loop: A Chronological Guide to Attractions along Slea Head Road
- The Kick Team
- Mar 12
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 24
The Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, Ireland, offers one of the most scenic drives in the country. Taking the loop clockwise along Slea Head Road reveals stunning coastal views, ancient sites, and charming villages.
Also check out our Ring of Kerry video blog . It may help you decide priorities.
Starting Point: Begin your Roadtrip In Dingle Town
Begin your journey in Dingle town, a lively fishing port known for its colorful streets, traditional pubs, and friendly atmosphere. Before heading out, consider grabbing a coffee or breakfast here. Dingle offers a good selection of local crafts and seafood, setting the tone for your adventure. Dolphin and whale Boat tours Dingle Guided Tours Blasket Islands Day Tour
Kilmore Cross and Dunbeg Fort
As you leave Dingle heading west on the R559, your first stop is Kilmore Cross, a quiet spot where you can enjoy views of the surrounding countryside. Shortly after, you’ll reach Dunbeg Fort, an ancient promontory fort perched on a cliff edge. Dating back to the Iron Age, this site offers a glimpse into early Irish defensive structures and spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Beehive Huts at Dun Chaoin
Continuing along Slea Head Road, you’ll find the famous Beehive Huts near Dun Chaoin. These stone huts, built without mortar, served as homes and monastic cells centuries ago. Walking among these well-preserved structures gives a sense of the rugged lifestyle of early inhabitants. The nearby coastline is dramatic, with cliffs plunging into the sea.
Slea Head Drive Viewpoint
Next, reach the iconic Slea Head Drive viewpoint, one of the most photographed spots on the peninsula. From here, you can see the Blasket Islands on the horizon, a group of islands once inhabited but now unpopulated. The view captures the wild Atlantic waves, rolling green hills, and the winding road you’ve traveled.
Coumeenoole Beach
A short drive from the viewpoint brings you to Coumeenoole Beach, a stunning sandy beach framed by cliffs. It’s a perfect place to stretch your legs, take photos, or enjoy a picnic. The beach’s clear waters and dramatic backdrop make it a favorite for visitors.
Dunquin and the Blasket Islands Centre
Driving on, you reach Dunquin, a village overlooking the Blasket Islands. The Blasket Islands Centre here offers exhibitions about the islands’ history, culture, and the people who lived there until the mid-20th century. The centre provides context for the views you enjoyed earlier and deepens your appreciation of the area.
Ballyferriter Village
A little further along is Ballyferriter, a small village with a strong Irish-speaking community. Here, you can experience local culture, visit a café, or browse small shops selling crafts and local produce. It’s a good spot for a break before continuing your journey.
Gallarus Oratory
Heading eastward along the loop, you’ll come to Gallarus Oratory, one of Ireland’s best-preserved early Christian churches. Built between the 6th and 9th centuries, this stone structure resembles an upturned boat and is remarkable for its dry-stone construction. It remains a place of quiet reflection and historical interest.
Return via Connor Pass
After completing the loop along Slea Head Road, head back to Dingle town by taking the Connor Pass. This mountain pass is one of the highest in Ireland and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the peninsula and surrounding mountains. The winding road can be narrow and steep, so drive carefully. The views from the top reward the effort with sweeping vistas of valleys, lakes, and distant coastline.
Inch Strand.
With a small detour on the way back, you can find Inch Beach a long stretch of golden sand and a surfer's paradise. Drive on to the beach and watch the kids enjoy it.
Final Stop: Back in Dingle Town
Returning to Dingle town completes the loop. You might want to relax with a meal or a drink in one of the town’s many pubs or restaurants. Reflect on the diverse landscapes, historical sites, and coastal beauty you experienced on this memorable drive.
