From the Killarney to the Cliffs of Moher– Ireland’s Natural Wonders

A Journey of Scenic Splendor

The next leg of Cath’s journey with Scorch, her trusty Free Spirit campervan, brought her to the Dingle Peninsula and onward to the Aran Islands. 

These regions are celebrated for their rugged coastlines, unique wildlife, and ancient history. With the freedom to explore at her own pace, Cath uncovered breathtaking landscapes, embraced cultural traditions, and experienced the magic of Ireland’s west coast.

Day 6 – Ireland’s Natural Wonders: A Day of Delight in Killarney

Killarney, —Nestled in the heart of County Kerry, this picturesque town offers a perfect mix of serene landscapes, rich history, and warm Irish hospitality. Here’s a day in Killarney that promises no driving, plenty of adventure, and all the charm of the Emerald Isle.

Morning Wanderings: Killarney House Gardens and Ross Castle
The day began with a leisurely bus ride into Killarney, a town renowned for its proximity to the stunning Killarney National Park. A stroll through Killarney House Gardens unveiled meticulously maintained flowerbeds and scenic pathways—a tranquil introduction to Ireland’s Natural Wonders.

The walk continued down to Ross Castle, a 15th-century tower house on Lough Leane’s shores. This historic site, built by the O’Donoghue clan, offers breathtaking views of the lake and a glimpse into medieval Irish life. “Wander around Killarney House Gardens, then walk down to Ross Castle,” capturing the essence of a peaceful morning.

A Sweet Lunch and Island Adventures
Lunch was a simple but delectable affair: “a pear and almond scone with raspberry jam, washed down with vat coffee.” Afterwards, a traditional boat carried the group across Lough Leane to Innisfallen Island, home to the ruins of Innisfallen Abbey, founded in the 7th century.

One fascinating tidbit? “Welsh stone is used for arches!” The island is a haven of peace, where the quiet is punctuated only by birdsong and the occasional rustle of deer—like the majestic herd spotted and filmed that day. “A beautiful and peaceful… herd of deer was filmed.”

Evening in Town: Shopping, Music, and Seafood
Back in town, a coat purchase was a practical yet stylish memento of the day. The evening offered a taste of Irish culture with stops at two pubs for live music. One showcased traditional Irish tunes, while the other veered toward contemporary sounds—but the musicianship in both was top-notch. “Trad in one pub, not so trad in the other but the musicianship was great.”

Dinner was a culinary delight at Quinlan’s Mad Monk, a celebrated seafood spot. “Octopus and scallops. Delish.” The fresh flavours of the Atlantic perfectly capped off the day.

Meeting Lovely Locals
The day was enriched by encounters with a friendly group from Tipperary and their delightful dogs. “A group from Tipperary were lovely, and the dogs were lush.” Their warmth and stories added an extra layer of charm to the experience.

 

Day 7 – Ireland’s Natural Wonders: Exploring the Dingle Peninsula

Pint of Dingle session ale. This pub is definitely different & that’s quite a collection of whiskies they have … wonder how many tots of 30-year-old Bushmills they sell for €200 a tot.”

Cath began her day at Inch Beach, a vast expanse of sand where the sound of crashing waves set the perfect tone for a morning walk. 

Known for its popularity among surfers and nature lovers, Inch Beach also offers panoramic views of Dingle Bay. “Inch Beach for a paddle & long walk in the surf.”

“Next, she headed toward the famed Slea Head Drive, a scenic route that winds along the peninsula. This stretch is filled with dramatic cliffs, ancient landmarks, and breathtaking views of the Blasket Islands. 

Along the way, Cath visited the Fahan Beehive Huts, believed to date back to the 8th–12th centuries. These unique dry-stone structures once served as dwellings for monks or early settlers. “Saw some Fahan Beehive Huts – they were definitely on my list. Beautiful structures built any time between 8th & 12th century…”

‘’Stopped for a walk up Mwnt – my god, this coastline is so like Ceredigion .. for views across to the Blasket Islands, saw pod dolphins in the bay & chatted to a lovely French couple from Bordeaux. Stopped off at Brandon Creek, & then onwards to Dingle.

Booked a 2.5 hour sea safari tomorrow morning on a rib. Hopefully,y I’ll see the dolphins & minky whales they saw today – and puffins (my favourite) & seals. Keep your fingers crossed for me ..

I parked up for the night in the harbour carpark so hoping for a good night’s sleep. Better not have too many sherbets, though the forecast tomorrow is calm’’

Cath’s day ended in Dingle Town, renowned for its colourful streets, lively pubs, and warm hospitality. At Dick Mack’s Pub, she enjoyed local ale while marvelling at the quirky shop-pub hybrid and later dined at Fish Box, a family-run seafood eatery. “Wander around till I found some music at J. Curran’s bar. Can’t get more trad than Irish acapella.”

Learn more about the Dingle Peninsula

 

Day 8 – Ireland’s Natural Wonders: Wildlife and the Magic of Dingle Sea Safari

“An early post as am buzzing! Went on Dingle Sea Safari rib & it was awesome!!!!”

Cath’s morning was filled with excitement as she embarked on a Dingle Sea Safari, a rib boat tour of Dingle Bay. Led by a knowledgeable skipper, the safari offered close encounters with bottlenose dolphins, seals, and puffins. “Bottlenosed dolphins, seals & puffins. Best €70 I have ever spent.” The skipper also shared insights into the bay’s geology and history, including a stop at “Fungie’s bedroom,” a playful nod to Dingle’s famous resident dolphin.

‘’I have never seen so many seals!

Puffins are a bit skittish!’’

After the safari, Cath journeyed toward Doolin, a charming coastal village that serves as a gateway to the Aran Islands. Known for its traditional music scene, Doolin also offers stunning views of the Cliffs of Moher. That evening, Cath parked Scorch, her Free Spirit campervan, at a campsite and enjoyed a seafood platter at the Doolin Hotel before retreating to her cosy campervan for a restful night.

‘’If you’re out for a pint & need some weed killer then head to Foxy Johns (I kid you not) or need a lovely new belt or a pair of wellies then Dick Macks the place for you.

 An Daingean (Dingle)’’

 

Book a Dingle Sea Safari
Learn about Doolin

Day 9 – Ireland’s Natural Wonders: From Kerry to Clare

Day 9 of the adventure for Cath saw a journey from the rugged beauty of County Kerry to the softer, verdant landscapes of County Clare. There were breathtaking views, historical stops, and unforgettable culinary experiences along the way.

Leaving Kerry: Ice Age Landscapes and Mixed Impressions
The day began with a breezy departure from Kerry, with stunning views of a landscape profoundly shaped by the Ice Age. “What a stunning view… and brilliant example of the impact of the Ice Age on the landscape.”

The drive over Conor’s Pass offered dramatic vistas, but the northern leg of Kerry wasn’t as inspiring. “Banna Beach looked lovely,” though Ballybunion lived up to its name as a disappointing stop. “Painful and ugly,” as aptly described.

A visit to Carrigafoyle Castle turned things around, offering an impressive slice of history and sweeping views from its winding staircases. “Carrigafoyle Castle is impressive and great views from the top (lots of winding steps).”

Crossing the Shannon: Clare’s Soft, Lush Welcome
The ferry ride across the Shannon marked the transition into County Clare, where the landscape shifted dramatically. “Off the ferry and County Clare turned the day around big time. Very different landscape from Kerry, much softer. No stone walling. Lush hedges, boggy areas, marsh grasses.”

The drive led to Loophead Lighthouse, a highlight of the day. Narrow, windy roads offered stunning scenery enhanced by sunshine and blue skies. “Narrow windy roads (my favourite) and stunning scenery made all the better by the sun and blue skies.”

History and Ice Cream Stops
A visit to the Grave of the Yellow Men provided a fascinating historical moment, with photos and panels to delve deeper into the story. Ice cream at Killballyowen paired perfectly with reading the Scroll, a beautiful artistic creation. “Stopped in Killballyowen for ice cream and read the Scroll while scoffing—see the photos of panels—beautiful work.”

At Lovers’ Leap near Loophead, the dramatic rock formation sparked my imagination. “If Diarmuid and Grainne did jump it, then they deserved to live happily ever after.”

Evening at Tubridy’s: A Culinary Masterpiece
The day ended in Doonbeg at a cosy campsite with spacious pitches and a gorgeous sunset view. After settling in, a short walk into the village led to dinner at Tubridy’s Restaurant. The meal was a revelation: “The chef is a genius! Pan-fried wild halibut with prawns, cauliflower, pak choi… perfectly cooked and absolutely delicious.”

Full of the exquisite meal and surrounded by the beauty of the Clare coastline, it was time to relax and reflect. “Now have food coma—night night. Sunset view from my camping pitch.”

Day 10 – Ireland’s Natural Wonders: Cliffs, Characters, and Coastal Charms in Doolin

Today in Cath’s adventures brought a mix of Ireland’s most iconic views, engaging local encounters, and peaceful moments amidst otherworldly landscapes. From the bustling Cliffs of Moher to the serenity of Doolin, this day offered an authentic taste of Clare’s diversity.

The Cliffs of Moher: Stunning Views and Busy Vibes
The day started with a stop at the world-famous Cliffs of Moher, located conveniently en route to Doolin. “It’s a big thing—visitor centre, cafe etc—so you have to walk a fair distance to escape the crowds.” And the crowds were indeed overwhelming: “OMG busy busy.”

Despite this, the cliffs delivered on their promise of stunning views. Taking a breather, there was a chance to meet with David and Adrian, fellow travellers from a previous evening in Dingle. “Bumped into David & Adrian who were sat boozing with me in Dick Mack’s in Dingle.”

A memorable highlight was a conversation with Padraig, a lively local character with a knack for storytelling—and an impressive Instagram presence. “He was a real character and has a massive Instagram following: sing_andstep_withpadraig—that’s lockdown for you!”

Exploring Doolin: Surfing, Burren Limestone, and a Seafood Feast
After checking into the campsite in Doolin, a wander through the area set the stage for tomorrow’s adventure. Per Padraig’s advice, a ferry was booked to Inis Oírr, the smallest of the Aran Islands, promising a quieter, more intimate experience than Inis Mór. “Booked a ferry for Inis Oírr tomorrow morning—cycling and beach on the agenda.”

Back on land, surfers provided entertainment with their impressive moves. “Watched some surfing guys doing their thing—looked great fun. Chatted with one of them and also got some walking tips.”

The Burren Limestone formations, unique to this region, offered a chance to wander in peaceful solitude. “Burren Limestone formations are really weird—look like a different planet. Was nice to wander in peace and quiet after the crowds.”

Dinner at the Doolin Hotel was a perfect way to end the day, with a seafood platter that delighted the taste buds. “Supper at Doolin Hotel… seafood platter—lush.”

Winding Down: Steps and Serenity
The day’s activities added up to an impressive 23,000 steps—a testament to the joys of exploring on foot and escaping the hustle and bustle. “That’s what happens when you avoid the crowds!” By evening, it was time to relax and put up weary feet at the campsite. “Back at base now—a tad weary and need to put my feet up.”

Learn more about the Cliffs of Moher
Explore The Burren

Freedom on the Road with Scorch

Throughout these days, Scorch, from Free Spirit Campervans, proved its worth time and again. 

The campervan offered the flexibility to linger in scenic spots, escape crowded tourist areas, and explore remote corners of Ireland. 

With its cosy interior and well-equipped kitchen, Scorch provided the perfect balance of comfort and adventure, turning every moment into a memory.

Practical Tips for Days 6–9

• Overnight Parking: Doolin’s campsites offer excellent facilities and easy access to ferries for the Aran Islands.
• Local Highlights: Don’t miss Dingle Sea Safari or cycling on Inis Oírr for unforgettable experiences.
• Driving Advice: The Slea Head Drive requires careful navigation, but the views are worth every twist and turn.
• Wildlife to Spot: Bring binoculars for dolphins, seals, and puffins in Dingle Bay, as well as seabirds at the Cliffs of Moher.

Day 11 Teaser: Inis Oirr and Beyond

Next, Cath and Scorch journey to Aran Islands, where rugged mountains, bike rides and shipwrecks await!

Stay tuned for Blog 4 as the adventure reaches its stunning finale.

Call-to-Action: Your Campervan Adventure Awaits

Ready to explore Ireland’s west coast? 

With a Free Spirit campervan like Scorch, you can experience the freedom to discover hidden gems and iconic landmarks at your own pace. 

Contact us to plan your campervan purchase so you are ready for your dream trip.