Located at the foot of magnificent Mount Brandon, the twin villages of Cloghane and Brandon provide a peaceful retreat into one of Ireland’s least spoiled areas. Situated on the northern tip of the Dingle Peninsula, Cloghane and Brandon are among County Kerry’s secret treasures — little-known gems for hikers, art lovers, and quiet retreat hunters.

Finding the Spirit of Cloghane and Brandon
For those who want to be surrounded by Celtic tradition and Gaelic culture, Cloghane and Brandon are imbued with a deep-seated folk heritage and Irish mythology. Being part of the Gaeltacht (Irish speaking area), native language pervades normal living here — from signs and shop fronts to overhearing chat in local pubs and cafes. People come to enter into a world with slower rhythms and traditional patterns still dominating everyday life.

Local entertainment includes traditional music, storytelling, and Irish crafts that celebrate its strong connection to its heritage. From shopping for a locally made woollen scarf to listening to a sean-nós singer at the fire, you’ll hear the heart of Cloghane and Brandon echo through its people and places.

Walking through Time and Nature
For nature lovers, this region is a walker’s dream come true. From easy strolling to demanding hikes, every path holds out the promise of breathtaking vistas and an atmosphere of deep tranquility. Some of my own favorite walks in Brandon and Cloghane include:

• The Dingle Way – an extended hiking trail along the peninsula with anything from sheer cliffs to secluded beaches along its route. The route from Feohanagh to Cloghane is one of the best of the whole Dingle Way. An amazing example of an Ogham Stone on the route.
• Mount Brandon from Teer through Más an Tiompáin – Sacred path up one of Ireland’s highest mountains with far-reaching views and spiritual appeal.One of my very own favorite walks in all of Kerry.
  
• Sás Creek Loop Walk – An ocean path that treats hikers with unspoiled views and the exhilarating smell of the Atlantic Ocean. I’ve seen whales and dolphins on this walk.
  
• Slí Na nGallán Loop Walk – Scenic walk through surrounding hills and valleys full of local stories and traditions and taking in three Standing Stones (Galláin) in the townland of Cluain Searrach which are orientated on the rising sun at the summer solstice.
  
• Cloghane to Mount Brandon, The Faha Route – a strenuous but satisfying hike from the village to the top, following ancient pilgrim trails. For experienced walkers and those who love a dip in mountain lakes.
  

Local natural beauty spots such as Loch a’ Dúin, a glacial lake surrounded by prehistoric monuments, and Macha na Bó, steeped in myth and legend, add depths of nature and history to each footstep. 

A quiet gateway to Dingle Peninsula
In contrast to more hectic tourist areas further to the west, Cloghane and Brandon are quiet havens, perfect for visitors desiring authentic Irish village life. Take in Mount Brandon’s scenery, sample some local seafood at a pub, or sit by the water and watch events unfold.

Brandon Bay stretches out in a wide curve close by and is favored by bathers, surfers, and people who just want to see the tides roll in and out. Murphy’s Bar, located directly on the bay, is a must stop to indulge in a Pint and some good food! This region really is one of the most spectacular vistas on the island — and also one of the most peaceful.

Experience the very heart of the Dingle Peninsula
Whether following ancient paths on Mount Brandon’s slopes, listening to a song in a local pub, or strolling along a secluded lake shrouded in mythology, Cloghane and Brandon welcome you to experience Dingle Peninsula’s rural beauty in its true form.
Arrange to visit today and find out how this region is not just an entry point to nature’s beauty but a living testament to Ireland’s past and present story. A great website with lots more info on the area can be found here.