Atlantic Lodge Ballinknockane, Kerry

Location

The Gaeltacht region of Ballydavid (Baile na nGall) is a majestic area that comprises of the three adjoining villages Ballydavid, Feohanagh and Murreagh. There, Mount Brandon overlooks the north shores of Smerwick harbour with its stunning cliffs, dramatic seas and tranquil untouched beaches. There is something for everyone with archeological sights, incredible walks, great swimming and snorkelling at the Pier, windsurfing, surfing, fishing, excellent fish restaurants and lively pubs.

The Slea head drive takes you ‘Out West’ as it is fondly referred to by locals, through Dunquin, Ballyferriter, Ballydavid and then loops back to Dingle. A slight detour off the drive takes you to the quiet fishing village of Ballydavid with its memorable Pier, a well loved spot with a great atmosphere on summer days. There are two pubs/restaurants that overlook the pier and beach with tables outside where you can relax and take in the Three Sisters, Dun an Oir and the white sandy beaches. All of the restaurants in the area have quality seafood and are located close to the sea to incorporate the stunning cliff and sea views. The area is great for cycling as it is quite flat, you can rent bikes at Gormans Restaurant between Murreagh and Feohanagh.

The Dingle Way meanders through Feohanagh’s wonderful cliff and beach walks. There are stunning trails around the cliffs and coves of Brandon Creek and up Mount Brandon, Irelands second highest mountain range which has 360° views across the Dingle Peninsula. Brandon Creek is known to be the place from where Saint Brendan set sail across the Atlantic Ocean to discover North America in the 6th Century. There is a wonderful walk from the Brandon Creek along the cliff to a 16th century look out tower on the hill above Feohanagh. the views up there are breathtaking.

Murreagh village has a shop, a community hall, a national school and is also the home of the Gaeltacht Football team with its proud tradition of Gaelic Football. In Carraig, Teach Siamsa is a training centre for the famous Siamsa Tíre whose goal is to preserve traditional culture in the areas of dance, music and song.

One of the most famous landmarks on the Dingle Peninsula is Gallarus Oratory, believed to have been built between the 6th century as a place of worship for early Christian farmers of the area. Shaped like an upside-down boat, the simple dry-stone structure has remained waterproof and in perfect condition to the present day. Close by is Gallarus Castle built by the FitzGeralds in the 15th century. It is one of the few surviving castles on the Dingle peninsula stone. Kilmalkedar Church is an early Christian and later Medieval site with a few gems worth a visit. Amongst them, the Alphabet Stone, a holed ogham stone, a sun dial, a large stone cross and two Holy Wells.