We're planning on three days in Dingle on our next trip and we want to make the Slea Head Loop. We know we'll only have one opportunity to do Slea Head during our lifetime and want to make it the best experience possible.
So we're torn between cycling or hiring a driver with local experience.
Question is, would cycling provide a more complete and better experience than driving ?
Would appreciate any insights but especially from those who've done the Slea Head Loop.
Posted by
Colorado Springs
2980 posts
Slea Head drive isn't exactly a bicycle friendly route. Narrow roads and distracted drivers would, I think, make for a pretty stressful experience. Better to drive the scenic route and save the cycling for less trafficked roads nearer to Dingle town. Am sure your guide, or the host at your accommodation, can point you in the right direction there.
Posted by
381 posts
I agree to hire a driver or pick up a small tour in Dingle Town. We have driven, and been driven, the Slea Heal Loop a half a dozen times and the most enjoyable experience is to be driven. There is no part of this drive that we felt we could relax and enjoy and take in all of the scenery. We saw several cyclist but unless you are used to cycling a strenuous route I would pass.
Posted by
1172 posts
We were just there 2 weeks ago and there is no way that I would cycle it or the Ring of Kerry. The roads are very narrow, with 2 way traffic and a posted limit of 100km/hour in many places.
We drove it and it was great. If I did not have access to a car, I would look to hire a driver for sure
Posted by
Seattle, WA
17418 posts
A contrary opinion. . . . I cycled the route on my 50th birthday and loved it. It was a beautiful sunny day and it was nice to be outside. We made all the usual stops and took our time. I am not a bold or enthusiastic road cyclist (prefer mountain biking on trails) but I did not find the traffic bothersome at all.
But maybe things have changed. I have to admit that was nearly 20 years ago. ; )
Posted by
OP
44 posts
This is a great forum. Much appreciated, folks.
Posted by
Kelowna, BC, Canada
451 posts
My wife and I biked it, age 50 and 47. Not avid bikers by any means and it took quite a while, but it was one of the best experiences. We both felt we really got to "see" the area. We stopped when we wanted to, and did it quite leisurely.