I'll be driving from Galway to Dingle in mid-September. I plan on taking the ferry from Killimer to Tarbert. This route will set me up to complete my trip to Dingle via the Conor Pass . I understand that bad weather/poor visibility can make this drive a challenge. Would anyone suggest alternative routes if the elements are working against me at this point in my travels? I am anticipating rain but poor visibility may be a route changer for me. Also, any estimates on how long this trip should take? I will already have visited Cliffs of Moher, Burren etc. so I won't need to revisit those areas on my run south. Thanks!
Posted by
Gig Harbor, Washington, USA
1862 posts
Instead of the ferry, you could instead use the tunnel under the Shannon, just west of Limerick. We drove across the Connor Pass on a rainy slippery April day. There was a section at the top where we had to hug the cliff side to let some fool's RV through - the signs say explicitly that oversized vehicles are not allowed. This was not a pleasant driving experience.
Posted by
Colorado Springs
2980 posts
I agree that using the tunnel would be your better option in the event of bad weather. Actually, it would be much quicker than driving around to catch the ferry which, while a pleasant excursion, isn't something I'd necessarily drive out of my way to do.
Conor Pass is really no fun in the rain - a real white knuckle experience. The N86 goes directly from Tralee down into Dingle, and would be a much more pleasant way to go if it's a rainy day. It also passes thru the little village of Annascaul where you could visit the South Pole Inn - a pub established by Tom Crean who was an Antarctic explorer with the Shackelton expedition back in the 1910's. The pub is essentially a museum with numerous photos and explanatory exhibits highlighting his amazing career. It also serves a terrific pint of Guiness and offers hearty pub meals if you're ready for a break on the 3+30 drive from Galway.
Safe travels.
Posted by
OP
Ontario, Canada
7 posts
Thank you for your posts. I didn't know about the tunnel and it sounds like a great alternative to a white knuckle drive through the Conor Pass on a bad day. I had already done some reading about Annascaul and had planned to make a stop at The South Pole Inn. At that point in my journey, I'm sure I'll have no need to rationalize a stop at a cozy pub, surrounded by history.
Thank you again!
Posted by
Gig Harbor, Washington, USA
1862 posts
We used that tunnel in 2012, so I don't remember the exact amount, but there is a small toll for the tunnel. Have about five euros in coins with you - that's probably more than you need.
Posted by
York, PA
300 posts
Is there a toll lane for the tunnel where they accept (small) bills? We'll be passing thru right after landing at Shannon and may or may not have much change in coins (haven't checked the €-coin bag recently). I've checked the toll-free driving directions that bypass the tunnel just in case and it doesn't appear to add much to the drive time but of course mid-week morning traffic will be what it will be.