A hiker walking along the grassy slopes of Mount Brandon on the Dingle Peninsula, with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and rugged headlands in the distance.
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Dingle Way

Dingle Way – Walking Holidays & Outdoor Adventures

Type of trail?
National Trail
Is it for me?
A little challenging
Regular climbs, mixed terrain, good fitness recommended.
What will I see?
Atlantic coastlines
Coastal Shores
Historic towns and villages
Rolling Countryside
Islands & ocean views
Mountain Passes
Rural Villages
What’s the vibe?
Adventurous & Challenging
Traditional Irish hospitality
Historic & Cultural
Scenic & varied

Coastal Headlands, Mountain Passes, and Ireland’s Western Edge

Mountains, Blaskets, and Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Shores

The Dingle Way is a 111-mile (179 km) circular long-distance trail around the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry. Starting and finishing in Tralee, the route follows sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and mountain passes, making it one of Ireland’s most diverse and dramatic walking holidays.

Walkers encounter everything from long stretches of shoreline at Brandon Bay to the high mountain pass of Mount Brandon, Ireland’s second-highest peak. Along the way, the trail passes ancient beehive huts, ogham stones, and small Gaelic-speaking villages where traditional music and warm welcomes are part of the journey.

It’s a route that combines history, culture, and scenery in one of Ireland’s most iconic Wild Atlantic Way destinations.

Trail Overview

Type: National Waymarked Trail
Distance: 111 miles (179 km)
Start/End: Tralee, County Kerry
Time Required: 8–10 days
Terrain: Coastal paths, sandy beaches, mountain passes, farmland, quiet lanes
Difficulty: Moderate — gentle shoreline walking balanced with challenging upland climbs
Accessibility: Waymarked; accommodation in villages and towns along the route

Explore the Route

Tralee to Camp
The trail begins in Tralee, heading across low hills and farmland before reaching the coast at Camp on Tralee Bay.

Camp to Annascaul
From the shoreline at Camp, the path climbs over the Slieve Mish Mountains and descends into Annascaul, a village famed for explorer Tom Crean.

Annascaul to Dingle
Coastal and inland walking leads past Inch Strand before reaching Dingle, the peninsula’s lively cultural hub.

Dingle to Dunquin
One of the most stunning sections, with views of the Blasket Islands, ancient beehive huts, and dramatic Atlantic cliffs.

Dunquin to Cloghane (via Mount Brandon)
The most challenging stage, climbing over Mount Brandon and Conor Pass — Ireland’s highest mountain pass — with sweeping views in all directions.

Cloghane to Castlegregory
A gentler coastal stage along Brandon Bay, following one of Ireland’s longest sandy beaches.

Castlegregory to Tralee
The trail continues along quiet beaches, farmland, and back inland, completing the loop at Tralee.

Stay and Explore

Adventure Highlights

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the Dingle Way go?

It loops around the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, starting and ending in Tralee.

How long does it take to walk the Dingle Way?

Most walkers complete the full 111 miles (179 km) in 8–10 days, but it can be split into shorter sections for weekend trips.

Is the Dingle Way difficult?

It is moderate overall. Coastal and beach sections are easy, but the Mount Brandon stage is demanding with steep climbs and descents.

What is the best part of the Dingle Way?

Highlights include the views of the Blasket Islands, the Mount Brandon crossing, Brandon Bay’s beaches, and the lively town of Dingle.

When is the best time to walk the Dingle Way?

May to September offers the best conditions. Spring and autumn bring quieter trails and colourful landscapes.
SELF-GUIDED WALKING HOLIDAYS
IRELAND | GALWAY
WILD ATLANTIC WAY
Hillwalk Tours
www.selfguidedtravel.com > explore > hillwalk-tours
Cliffs and coves near Dunquin Harbour on the Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry — a highlight of self-guided walking holidays in Ireland with Hillwalk Tours.
Hillwalk Tours | Self Guided Travel

Atlantic headlands, mountain trails & island routes shape Ireland’s west — Hillwalk Tours offers self-guided walking holidays with local stays, route notes & luggage transfers.

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