2018 Dingle Walking Festival: take a step in the right direction...

WHILE it’s very much the unofficial start of the tourist season in west Kerry, the Dingle Walking Festival is also an event that’s perfect for breaking free of the clutches of winter by enjoying the great outdoors.

This year’s festival takes place over the weekend of February 16-18 and is all about promoting the wonderful amenity that is the Dingle Way - a beautiful and internationally recognised walkway right here on our doorstep.

“We just decided to focus on the Dingle Way this year as we’re trying to make more people aware of it. It’s a route that now has its own website (Dingleway. ie) and it’s an opportunity to showcase and introduce walkers who may not have heard about it,” said festival organiser, Colm Bambury.

The Dingle Way has everything to offer the seasoned or casual walker as they get to experience first-hand a natural paradise rich in archaeology, history, botany, ecology, geology. It’s an ideal weekend to enjoy all that’s wonderful about nature while getting in some good old-fashioned exercise along the way.

As is customary, the weekend kicks off on Friday evening with a walk around Dingle town which starts and finishes at Benner’s Hotel. There is no fee for this but people can make a donation, if they wish, towards the Dingle Cliff and Coastal Rescue Service.

On Saturday and Sunday, walkers will be spoilt for choice - and don’t worry if you feel a bit of a novice as the organisers have divided walks into categories to suit all levels of fitness. On Saturday a 20km walk from Dingle to Dunquin takes place which includes a walk along the shoulder of Mount Brandon and part of Ventry Strand. A shorter 11km walk along the same route is also planned. Walkers will be brought by bus back to the town where refreshments will be laid on.

Sunday is a must for all movie buffs as a walk along the Dingle Way will pinpoint where famous movies like Ryan’s Daughter and Star Wars were filmed. Also on the Sunday is a lovely walk from Dunquin to Ballydavid which takes in some lovely beaches and backroads.

Colm said the walking festival helps kick start the new season with an influx of walkers who know how to enjoy Dingle’s selection of restaurants, bars, hotels, guest houses and BandBs over the course of a memorable weekend.

“It’s a festival that’s really grown from strength to strength in its eight year existence. It’s a chance to get the season underway in Dingle as people enjoy a break away after a dull and dark winter. Everyone is welcome to attend the festival and the only requirement is a good pair of walking boots!” said Colm.

For more information about the 2018 Dingle Walking Festival visit www.dinglewalkingfestival.com or like their Facebook page.