The Dingle Peninsula Situated on the southwest coast of County Kerry, this finger of a land stretches 30 miles into the Atlantic Ocean. Dominated by a spine of mountains, it is known for its rugged scenery, dramatic sea cliffs and sandy beaches. There are at least three things largely guaranteed along the Wild Atlantic Way: castles, castle ruins and Irish pubs. On the Dingle, there are three main surviving castles (Minard, Gallarus and Rahinnane), with all three being 15th- and 16th-century tower houses. Regarding the pub situation: there are plenty, with more than 50 in the town of Dingle alone. Many of them are what is known in Ireland as trade-shop pubs in which dual businesses are conducted; the pouring of Guinness is on one side of the pub, and the selling of various goods ranging from groceries to hardware, linens, souvenirs, clothing, gifts and more is on the other side. Bunratty Castle Situated in the southwest coastal region of County Clare, this is the most complete and authentic castle in Ireland. Dating back to the 15th century, this historic icon stands on land that was once a Viking trading camp. Regular tours and medieval banquets held in this imposing edifice are designed to reveal the castle’s restored magnificence, period furnishings, tapestries and works of art. Medieval dinners are held in the castle’s Great Hall where lords, ladies and royals once lived and dined. The banquets regularly feature a period-clad group of castle singers, dancers and music. Today, Bunratty sits on 26 acres of rolling countryside amid walled gardens, a popular folk park and a “living” village heritage site. CSANews | SUMMER 2026 | 17 Travel
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