Annascaul Lake and Valley
- Anthony O'Shea
- Oct 14
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 23
Harriet's Cottage Activity Suggestions (Drive/Walk)
The drive from Harriet’s Cottage in Dingle to Annascaul Lake and Valley is one of those quietly spectacular journeys that capture the essence of rural County Kerry — wild, winding, and full of beauty at every turn.
🚗 Route Overview
Starting Point: Harriet’s Cottage, Dingle town
Destination: Annascaul Lake (Loch Abhainn an Scáil)
Distance: ~22 km (14 miles)
Driving Time: Around 25–30 minutes, depending on stops and pace
Route: N86 → turn inland toward Annascaul village → local road to the lake
Click here for directions
🏞️ The Journey
Leaving Dingle town, you’ll ease out along the N86 toward Tralee. The road winds up gently through open countryside, with glimpses of Dingle Bay to your right and the Slieve Mish Mountains rising in the distance. As you climb out of Dingle, you’ll pass through Lispole, a small, charming village with stone cottages and a few local shops — it’s worth slowing down here just to enjoy the feel of authentic Kerry life. The landscape gradually becomes more dramatic: hedgerows give way to open fields, and you’ll start to see sheep scattered along the hillsides. After about 15 minutes, watch for signs for Annascaul — the birthplace of the Antarctic explorer Tom Crean. You’ll turn left into the village, which is small but full of history and warmth. If you fancy a short break, stop at The South Pole Inn, the cozy pub once owned by Crean himself.
🌄 Into the Valley
From Annascaul village, follow the narrow country road that winds south toward Annascaul Lake — about 4 km (2.5 miles) inland. The scenery quickly changes: the road narrows and twists between rising green hills, bogland, and stone walls. The further you go, the quieter it becomes — no traffic, just the sound of streams and wind. As you approach the lake, the valley opens up dramatically. The water sits in a glacial bowl surrounded by steep slopes and heather-covered ridges — it’s wild and deeply peaceful. There’s a small car park at the end of the lane, and you can take a short walk along the lake or explore trails leading further into the Annascaul Valley.
💡 Tips
Best time to go: Morning or late afternoon, when the light enhances the mountain shadows.
Bring: A camera, a jacket (weather changes fast), and walking shoes if you plan to explore.
Optional stop: Minard Castle
