Open Seniors Golf Competition | Local Events | Activity Week
There is a wealth of things to do and see on the Dingle Peninsula. You will find entertainment and activities for all ages and interests, just some of which are listed below.
The Slea Head Drive
The Slea Head Drive on the Dingle Peninsula is one of the most spectacular areas of natural beauty in the world. This area which was the setting for the famous film Ryan’s Daughter has enchanted its’ visitors for many years. It’s worth spending a couple of hours on this drive, stopping to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, the dramatic cliff face at Coumeenole strand or white sandy beaches along the coast.
The Dingle Peninsula is rich and dense in archaeological monuments. There are almost 2000 sites spanning from the Mesolithic period right up to Cromwell’s time. One can lose oneself in the stories of ancient folklore and mythology at the stone circles and passage tombs or marvel at the ingenious architecture of the famous Gallarus Oratory. This is one of the finest examples of an early Christian church in Ireland and is renowned for being built entirely without mortar and yet never having leaked a drop of rainwater in. One may also examine the unique Ogham Stones which are scattered all over the area, the Beehive huts, ancient monastic dwellings or the various castles and forts around the area. One may choose to explore the rich soul of Ireland, which shines in these sites independently or with a local guide. There are a number of options when booking an archaeological tour but most tours focus on small groups between four and ten people and may be booked in advance.
Great Blasket Centre
While on this journey around Slea Head one will experience the breathtaking views of the Blasket Islands and may wish to visit the Great Blasket Heritage Centre. This interpretive centre is a celebration of the lives of the unique community who lived on the Great Blasket Island until 1953. This centre, which is operated by the Office of Public Works was opened in 1993 and honours the wealth of literature, which was produced by this community including the classics such as “Peig”, “Twenty Years a Growing”, and “The Islandman”. The centre also examines the way of life of the islanders and visitors may explore this while enjoying the panoramic view of the Great Blasket and its family of surrounding islands.
Dún Chaoin, Trá Lí, Co. Chiarraí
Tel: +353 (0) 66 915 6444
Opening Times:
Easter – June 10.00 am – 6.00 pm
July & August 10.00 am – 7.00 pm
September – October 10.00 am – 6.00 pm
Last admission is 45 minutes before closing. The centre is opened on request from November to Easter.
Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium - Mara Beo
Dingle’s aquarium ‘Oceanworld’ is situated along the seafront and provides an interesting activity for all ages particularly on a rainy day. Situated near Dingle Harbour this interactive centre takes the visitor on a journey beneath the ocean, coming face to face with Reef Sharks and deadly Piranha. The aquarium introduces the visitor to the many species of fish in our waters and one can meet Molly the Turtle, hold a starfish and stroke the rays. One can also attend the daily feedings during the summer season and experience the Amazonian jungle feature. All in all Oceanworld is a fantastic fun day out for all the family.
Near Dingle Harbour, Dingle
Tel: +353 (0) 66 915 2111
Email: marabeo@iol.ie
Website: www.dingle-oceanworld.ie
Outdoor Activities with Irish Adventures
Offer a variety of outdoor activities and tours on daily and weekly bases that are aimed at all levels and abilities.
Adventure tours, Hill Walking and Hiking,Cycling tours, Mountain Biking, Rock-climbing, Abseiling, Rappelling, Horse riding, Mountaineering, Kayaking, Sea Kayaking.
Brides for Brandon and Carrauntoohill, mountain skills.
All activities are run by experienced, qualified and knowledgeable staff, we go that bit extra to give you that personal touch and an experience / adventure to remember.
Open all year round
Irish Adventures
Tel: +353 (0) 87 419 0318
Email: info@irishadventures.net
Website: www.irishadventures.net
Blasket Island Ferry & Cruise Services
Ferry leaves Dunquin pier every half hour weather permitting
Tel: +353 (0) 66 915 6422
Dingle Marine Eco Tours (2 Hour) Guided Tour of the Harbour
Tel: +353 (0) 86 285 8802
Dingle Marina Activities
Tel: +353 (0) 66 915 0768
Fungie - The Dingle Dolphin
Fungie the dolphin, has been Dingle’s favourite resident since 1983. His story has touched the hearts of the many visitors who come to see this bottle nosed friend each year. What is so unusual about Fungie is that he has remained within the bay, despite the trait of his species to constantly travel. This wild dolphins choice is to live within the community of the harbour. Visitors may like to take a boat trip out to see the playful antics of Fungie who is a born entertainer, jumping and splashing around the boats who visit him each day. These boat trips are run by approved boatmen and may be booked from the point of departure at the head of the pier. Alternatively, one may choose to swim with the dolphin. People have travelled from far and wide to have the experience of coming face to face with Fungie and it is said to be an enlightening, calming experience. Swimmers would need to book in advance for these trips, which depart early morning. The early departure allows the visitor to meet the dolphin in the tranquillity of the calm morning waters. So whether you choose to swim with Fungie or revel in his antics from the deck of a boat or spot his leaps and twirls from a sandy beach, an encounter with the dolphin is something you will never forget.
Boat Trip to Fungie: Trips leaving Dingle daily.
Tel: +353 (0) 66 915 2626
Swimming Trips (8.00 am - 10.00 am)
Tel: +353 (0) 66 915 1967
Dingle Bay Charters
Located at the Yacht Marina in Dingle, Dingle Bay Charters provide a wide range of options for visitors to enjoy the beautiful coastline and islands of the Dingle Peninsula.
Dingle Bay is a superb sailing area with many sheltered anchorages, magnificent scenery and interesting islands. An abundance of seals, puffins and other wildlife will be encountered on your cruise around the bay. See website for more details.
Dingle Bay Charters
Tel: +353 (0) 66 915 1344
Email: info@dinglebaycharters.com
Website: www.dinglebaycharters.com
Arts & Crafts
The Dingle Peninsula has become a paradise for arts and crafts lovers and shoppers alike. Leading the way over the last 25 to 30 years, creative inspiration has propelled the Peninsula both nationally and internationally through masters such as Louis Mulcahy and Brian de Staic.
Louis Mulcahy Pottery
Tel: +353 (0) 66 915 6366
Email: dingle@louismulcahy.com
Website: www.louismulcahy.com
Brian de Staic Jewellery
Tel: +353 (0) 66 915 1298
Email: info@briandestaic.com
Website: www.briandestaic.com
Holden Leathergoods
Tel: +353 (0) 66 915 0099
Email: info@holdenleathergoods.com
Website: www.holdenleathergoods.com
Dingle Crystal
Tel: + 353 (0) 66 915 1550
Email: info@dinglecrystal.ie
Website: www.dinglecrystal.com
Fishing
Sea fishing trips are available departing from the head of the pier where a booking office is situated. The best time for these trips is between March and September. Angling is also available in the locality.
Dingle Marina Activities
Tel: +353 (0) 66 915 0768
Swimming
There are many sandy beaches in close proximity to the town, which have blue flag status, and some offer rental of water sport equipment. One may also choose to swim with Fungie the Dingle Dolphin on organised early morning sunrise trips.
Swimming Trips (8.00 am - 10.00 am)
Tel: +353 (0) 66 915 1967
Sailing
The marina facilities in Dingle make an ideal berth for sailing enthusiasts or novices who may choose to take part in sailing courses introducing them to the joys of sailing and also the waters of Dingle. These are available for all age groups.
Dingle Marina Activities
Tel: +353 (0) 66 915 0768
Diving
Scuba diving in Dingle is suitable for every level of diver, from try dives in the shallow protected harbours to diving through kelp gardens or plunging rock formations and the wrecks around the Blasket Islands.
Dingle Marina Dive Centre
Tel: +353 (0) 66 915 2789
Email: dinglemarinadivecenter@eircom.net
Website: www.divingdingle.ie
Watersports
Open 7 days in high season. Wind surfing and surfing lessons.
Castlegregory
Tel: +353 (0) 66 713 9411
Horse Riding
There are a number of equestrian centres in the environs of Dingle town where riders of all abilities may partake in treks either along sandy beaches or rolling hillsides.
Long’s Horse Riding, Ventry
Tel: +353 (0) 66 915 9034
E-mail: info@longsriding.com
Website: www.longsriding.com
Dingle Horse Riding, Mountainside & Beach Treks
Tel: +353 (0) 66 915 2199
Email: info@dinglehorseriding.com
Website: www.dinglehorseriding.com
Pet Farm
Scanlon's Pet Farm – Baile an Locaigh
Tel: +353 (0) 66 915 5135
|
