There are two routes suggested on the maps . Rt N21 or N69...just a few minutes travel time difference. Which one do you suggest and why ? Thank you .
N21 goes via Adare which is Limerick's tourist hot spot so a typical tourist option on the way to Dingle.
The N69 follows the south side of the Shannon and passes Foynes (Flying boat museum) and Listowel which is one of Ireland's best Heritage towns and well worth a visit.
The next option is the N86 when you reach Camp and have to decide whether to head over the Connor Pass or stick to the main route.
Are you planning on driving this distance off a long haul flight ?
The N21 to Tralee will probably be faster. Fast being a relative thing in Ireland of course. Once past Tralee, the N86 is the faster way to Dingle. But, if you aren't in a hurry, and the skies are clear, consider taking the R560 over Conor Pass. It's a narrow road, but very beautiful. Or consider doing it on your way back off the peninsula.
Here are some tips for how to survive driving in Ireland. It explains the various road designations: https://wayfaringviews.com/driving-in-ireland-how-to-tips/
If you take the n69 stop at Listowel and take the free Castle tour . They take you up the redone remaining tower .
It really depends on when you are driving this.
Adare can really clog up, particularly on week days and school days. But there is a wonderful view - weather permitting - at the top of the Barna Gap.
There are some lovely views of the River Shannon Estuary on the N69, there is a lovely pull in spot in Foynes near the Yacht Club. And Listowel is lovely too.
A third alternative - but not the speediest by any means - is to drive from Shannon to Kilimer and take the Shannon Ferry to Tarbert http://www.shannonferries.com It won't save you time, and you will more than likely be waiting for a ferry. But its good fun.
The N69 is my preferred route. I treat myself to a take away cup of tea and a pastry from one of the garages along the way, then pull in to one of the viewing spots along the Shannon. Alternatively, the Seanachaí centre in Listowel has a lovely coffee shop, with parking (paid) on the square across the street. The centre has a huge selection of Irish books to browse, and perhaps buy as a literary souvenir.
Yes 👍
Just got back from our 1 week stay in Dingle . We ended up taking both routes. N69 from Shannon -Dingle and then N 21 from Dingle to Shannon to return home . I would recommend N21 as the roads are wider and less stressful . Both ways took us approx 3 hours with a stop at a gas station for a coffee and snack ! *Also I recommend getting the smallest car possible. We had rented a larger SUV because there were 5 of us , including a baby and luggage... and it was stressful in many places , including Slea Head and Dingle itself .
Just got back from our 1 week stay in Dingle . We ended up taking both routes. N69 from Shannon -Dingle and then N 21 from Dingle to Shannon to return home . I would recommend N21 as the roads are wider and less stressful . Both ways took us approx 3 hours with a stop at a gas station for a coffee and snack ! *Also I recommend getting the smallest car possible. We had rented a larger SUV because there were 5 of us , including a baby and luggage... and it was stressful in many places , including Slea Head and Dingle itself .