We previously left our mighty Hillwalk Tours staff members as they settled down in Annascaul to rest before their first long day of hiking. You can catch up on their adventure right here! Here is the second part of their Dingle Way hiking adventure.
Day Two – 12th September
Setting Off
The team set out early in the morning and began their hike towards Dingle. It was a bright, sunny morning – the perfect conditions that brought with it a sense of enthusiasm and excitement.
The first few minutes involved a stroll along the road, before turning off and walking up some typical Irish laneways. Before long, the ocean was in sight and the quartet stumbled upon Minard Castle, a 16th century castle built by the Fitzgeralds. In 1650, some of Cromwell’s army attempted to destroy the castle using explosives, however the castle remained standing.
Like many rural country roads in Ireland, the Hillwalk Team didn’t pass many people, except for catching up to another group of walkers also on the Dingle Way.
Lunch Time!
As it neared lunch time, after about two and a half hours of walking, the troop decided to find a spot for lunch. On the route notes, an small petrol station and rest area was mentioned so they decided to stop by.
The picnic bench that they chose had a fantastic view of Lispole Viaduct, an old bridge used as part of the now defunct light-rail system.
Nursing already somewhat sore legs, they stopped for a quick lunch, where they were soon joined by the aforementioned group of other walkers.
When the recuperation process was complete, the Hillwalkers set off on the afternoon stretch towards Dingle town.
The Rain Begins…
After lunch, the route began to gradually ascend towards farmland. It was here that the rain decided to start, and it was from here on that the rain decided that it didn’t want to stop.
The tracks and trails became quite muddy, slowing the progress of the team. Their spirits were never dampened, however!
The rain continued all through the afternoon, and a much needed rest stop was taken near Garfinny Bridge.
This bridge was constructed without the use of cement or anything else to keep it together – just the design and construction of the stone was enough to keep it standing.
Dingle’s In Sight!
Drenched yet energy-replenished, the quartet continued on to Dingle. It got closer and closer with every hill that they summited, and with it the call of a hot shower and a hearty meal.
Some undulating terrain later, they arrived at Brosnan’s B&B where they showered, napped and went into town for some food.
A hearty meal at Sheehy’s Anchor Down seafood restaurant, followed by a traditional Irish music session for Hauke was the perfect way to end the first long day of hiking.
Interested in taking a Dingle Way hike?
