Dingle Peninsula: Slea Head Drive Tour & Gallarus Oratory

Summary

Windy cliffs, ancient stones and soft wool on the Dingle coast

You’ll ride along dramatic cliffs on Slea Head Drive, hear local stories from your guide, hold a baby lamb (it’s softer than you think), and step inside ancient places like Gallarus Oratory—all with transport included from Dingle town. Expect wild weather and small surprises that stick with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, we almost missed our pickup for the Dingle Peninsula group tour because I thought I’d have time for “just one more” scone at the café. The driver waited with that patient Irish smile (I think he’s seen this before). Once we finally set off, the rain came sideways for a minute—classic Kerry weather—but then it cleared so suddenly I laughed out loud. Our guide, Tomás, told us that’s just how it goes here: “If you don’t like the weather, give it five minutes.”

The drive along Slea Head was something else. Not in a postcard way—more like you’re right up against the Atlantic, wind sneaking through the van door seals, sheep everywhere. We stopped at Ventry Harbour where an old man was mending nets and whistling something I didn’t recognize. There was this salty smell mixed with wet grass; I still think about that moment. At Eask Tower, Tomás pointed out how you could see all the way to the Blasket Islands if you squinted past the mist. He told stories about fishermen who used to row out there—honestly can’t imagine braving those waves.

We got to hold a baby lamb at one of the farms (softer than I expected, kind of warm and wiggly). Someone in our group tried to take a selfie and ended up with a mouthful of wool—everyone cracked up except maybe the lamb. The beehive huts were smaller than I pictured but standing inside them felt weirdly peaceful. And then there was Gallarus Oratory—just this silent stone building older than most countries. It smelled faintly earthy inside; Tomás said people still come here to pray sometimes.

On the way back through Commennole Beach, we watched clouds rolling over golden sand while someone pointed out Ceann Sibeal—the Star Wars spot. Didn’t expect to care about that but seeing it in person made me want to rewatch those scenes. So yeah, not everything went as planned but honestly that’s what made it feel real.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Dingle Peninsula highlights

• Visit Eask Tower for views
• Explore Ventry Harbour and Pier
• Drive the iconic Slea Head
• Hold a baby lamb and see Beehive Huts
• View the Blasket Islands
• Relax at Commennole Beach
• See Star Wars filming locations
• Visit Gallarus Oratory

Top questions

How long is the Dingle Peninsula & Slea Head Drive group tour?

The tour covers several key stops along the Dingle Peninsula in one day by air-conditioned vehicle.

Is hotel pickup included for this Dingle Peninsula tour?

The tour includes pickup; check details when booking for exact locations or meeting points.

What are some main stops on the Slea Head Drive tour?

Main stops include Eask Tower, Ventry Harbour, Blasket Islands viewpoints, beehive huts, Commennole Beach, Ceann Sibeal (Star Wars site), and Gallarus Oratory.

Can children join this Dingle Peninsula group tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; suitable for all fitness levels.

Are there Star Wars filming locations on this route?

Yes, Ceann Sibeal (Sybil Head) is featured as Luke Skywalker’s Jedi Temple in Star Wars: The Last Jedi.

Is lunch included on this Dingle Peninsula day trip?

No mention of lunch being included; plan to bring snacks or buy food during stops.

What is special about Gallarus Oratory?

Gallarus Oratory is an early Christian stone structure dating from the 6th–9th centuries AD.

Will we see local animals on this tour?

You’ll have a chance to hold a baby lamb at one of the farm stops along the route.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle from Dingle town or nearby points, guided stops at sites like Eask Tower and Gallarus Oratory, time to meet local farmers (and their lambs), plus plenty of chances to wander beaches and ancient ruins before heading back by evening.