Dingle peninsular

Sun 30/8/26

Today would be a long drive from Killarney to Lisdoonvarna in County Clare via the Dingle peninsular for a scenic drive. The drive would cover 330 km with stops at Dingle peninsular along the Wild Atlantic Way. We set out for our drive at 9.30am after having our self made breakfast at the apartment. It was sunny this morning.

Our first stop was Minard castle, a castle ruin by the beach. The road to the beach was narrow and there is a small, free car park. It rained briefly here.

Minard castle ruins

Minard beach

We then drove onwards to Coumeenoole beach. There is a free car park here. We made our way down to the beach. There was a signage prohibiting visitors to swim but I did see someone swimming. It did also rain briefly here. We had our packed sandwich for lunch at the bench with views of the beach and Atlantic Ocean. Better to arrive here early as when we were about to leave at 1pm, we were blocked briefly by a tour bus which was just arriving. 

Coumeenoole beach

Coumeenoole beach

Coumeenoole beach

Our next stop not far away was Dun Chaoin or Dunquin, with beautiful views of the cliffs. Be careful not to go to near the edge. The car park was also free here.

Dunquin

Dunquin view point

Moving on to the next stop at An Chonair or Connor Pass with scenic view at 151m (1496 ft). There is a free car park to stop for photographs. We skipped the nearby waterfall as it was raining at the time and the rocks might be slippery. 

Connor pass

We then made our way to County Clare via Caherconree scenic route, a single lane paved road with beautiful views. We stopped by the road at a pullover when there was no other cars to take some pictures then quickly continued driving as there was no proper car park. 

Caherconree scenic route

We finally arrived at our Apartments Balinsheen House and Gardens (EUR 386 or RM 1864 for 3 nights) at almost 6pm. Our host, Mary welcomed us with scones, how lovely of her. Finally Partner In Crime managed to get the scones he had been craving for.

scones with jam, butter and milk

lovely kitchen

For dinner tonight, we prepared fried rice at our self catering apartment.