Overview

Slea Head - Ceann Sléibhe in Irish - is a promontory on the westernmost part of the Dingle Peninsula in southwest County Kerry. The headland itself is marked by a stone crucifixion scene with dramatic views toward South Kerry and the Blasket Islands, making it one of the most photographed stopping points on the entire Slea Head Drive.

The crucifix marks the boundary between two Church parishes - Dingle Town Parish and the Parish of Ballyferriter - and has been named the Cornerstone of the Peninsula. It was funded by an Irish-American lawyer who was a relative of a local priest, and was erected before the 1960s.

While there are a number of great pull offs along Slea Head, this is one of the most recognizable and easy to identify.

What You'll See

The white statue of a crucifixion scene is set amidst black and grey rocks at the cliff face, creating a striking contrast that is particularly dramatic in grey or misty weather.

rom the headland, on a clear day there are panoramic views of the Blasket Islands, Dunmore Head - the westernmost point of Ireland - and on the southern horizon the silhouette of Skellig Michael.

The site also serves as a memorial to the fishermen who have lost their lives at sea. The pull-off is small and the scale of the ocean from this point is extraordinary.

Visitor Essentials

No facilities are on site. Most visitors spend about 15 minutes at the cross and soaking up the views before continuing the drive - it is a stop rather than a destination on its own.

Tips

The Slea Head Drive is a one-way clockwise system for visitors - follow the local road signs as the road is two-way for local residents only.