Visit Fahan to discover centuries-old ruins and experience western Ireland’s inspiring countryside. Fahan is a small village area with a collection of archaeological landmarks, including a fortress and primitive stone abodes. It’s a popular point on the picturesque Slea Head Drive. While here, admire emerald green meadows, marvel at dramatic ocean landscapes and spot varied wildlife.
A major highlight of Fahan is Dún Beag Fort, which sits on a hillside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Wander around the remains of guards’ chambers, pathways, tunnels and ramparts. Archaeologists date the fort to the 8th and 9th centuries and believe it served as a defensive stronghold, ritual site or tribal home. Watch audiovisual displays about the fort at the Visitor Centre.
A short walk from fort are the Fahan Beehive Huts. Peek inside the group of five humble stone huts, thought to date back to the 12th century. Note how the huts once formed a residential complex via interconnecting doors. They make up part of what was once a collection of about 400 homes known as the City of Fahan.
Amid the stunning natural beauty of the Dingle Peninsula, see magnificent views stretching in all directions from the village. Gaze up at the verdant slopes that cover 1,693-foot-tall (516-metre) Mount Eagle. Hike to the mountain summit, watch seabirds flying overhead and spot the remote Blasket Islands in the near distance.
Explore parts of the Dingle Way hiking route, within easy reach of the village. Follow a trail over gently rolling countryside from nearby Ventry Beach to Dunquin. Alternatively, bike or drive along Slea Head Drive, which weaves around the peninsula’s untamed coastline. Stop off at additional natural attractions such as Coumeenole Beach and Dunmore Head, the westernmost tip of Ireland.
Fahan is about a 20-minute drive west from Dingle Peninsula’s main town, Dingle. Fly to the nearest airport to the peninsula, Kerry Airport, which is about 44 miles (71 kilometres) east.
