We recently returned from spending a few days in Dingle as a family and it was so beautiful. One of the lovely, unexpected places we visited during our trip was Conor Pass.
Conor Pass is a gorgeous, narrow drive located just a few minutes from Dingle town. At the top of the pass is a beautiful spot right off the road, with a waterfall, and just a short scamper up the hill is a secluded lake with gorgeous views.
Our kids loved scrambling on the rocks leading up to the lake, playing in the stream that leads to the waterfall and exploring around the lake itself.
By the time we were done, they were basically covered from head to toe in mud (thank heavens for rainsuits and rainboots!).
I loved the views from the lake overlooking the valley below, dotted with smaller lakes and the road winding its way up the side of the mountain.
Even if you’re short on time, a quick drive up Conor Pass is a good idea!
This short guide to Conor Pass in Dingle is to help you know what to expect if you want to visit, how to safely drive the pass, and the best things to see on Conor Pass.
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Is Conor Pass Difficult to Drive?
Driving Conor Pass is quite similar to driving on most other small roads in Ireland; however, you do factor in a (protected) drop on one side and some very narrow sections, and it can feel a bit scary to some.
It’s mostly a one-lane road with some drop-offs; however, there are multiple pull-outs allowing for cars to pass, and there is always a barrier protecting you from the edge.
I am someone who can feel uncomfortable driving on narrow roads with large drop-offs, but I felt comfortable on Conor Pass. However, if you read much online, there are plenty of people who find it scary.
The good news is that it only takes about 10 minutes to drive the entirety of Conor Pass, so even if it’s more difficult than you expected, it’s just a short drive that will be over soon.
The main thing to do is to take it slow and pay attention to oncoming cars so that either you or they can pull over in the designated pull-out zones to allow each other to pass.
If you feel confident enough driving anywhere else on the Dingle Peninsula, you’ll most likely l be just fine driving Conor Pass.
Things to See on Conor Pass in Dingle, Ireland
Conor Pass is a great place to visit from Dingle town, as the main highlights can be reached in just 10 minutes by car! Just 5 minutes up the pass itself, you’ve reached the top, where you’ll find Conor Pass Waterfall, Peddler’s Lake, and gorgeous views.
You could, of course, just drive through Conor Pass without stopping, but I highly recommend stopping at the car park next to Conor Pass Waterfall (it’s located right next to the road, you can’t miss it) and scampering up the rocks to Peddler’s Lake
Conor Pass Waterfall:
Conor Pass Waterfall is located at the top of Conor Pass, just a 10-minute drive from Dingle Town (and just a 5-minute drive on the pass itself).
It’s a picturesque, small waterfall located next to a small car park, and there’s even a picnic table to enjoy the gorgeous views from the top of Conor Pass in Dingle.
Our kids loved climbing around the waterfall and especially enjoyed playing in the stream above the falls, creating dams, splashing in the water, and throwing rocks.
The picnic table is perfectly situated with beautiful views below of multiple small lakes and the surrounding mountains.
Peddler’s Lake (above Conor Pass Waterfall):
If you stop at Conor Pass Waterfall, be sure to make the short climb up above the falls to Peddler’s Lake.
There’s no specific trail; however, there’s a sign indicating that Peddler’s Lake is located above the falls and some information about the creation of the lake in the ice age.
The climb up to the lake only takes 5-10 minutes (or much longer if you’re with kids who are enjoying themselves and playing along the way).
Be aware that the ‘path’ is more like a scramble that requires rock scrambling and avoiding muddy patches, but that’s what makes it fun!
No need to worry about going the wrong way, just head straight up from the car park/waterfall, and you can’t miss the lake.
The lake is lovely, but the views of the valley below were my favorite part!
Viewpoint:
Besides the waterfall car park, there is an additional viewpoint along Connor Pass with views reaching out to the sea.
Tips for Driving Connor Pass in Dingle
- Do not drive Conor Pass if you are in a camper van or something larger. There are signs at the beginning of Conor Pass strictly prohibiting vehicles over 2,000 kg and 7.2 meters in length, which usually includes camper vans. If you read much online, you’ll find stories from locals about camper vans and RVs getting stuck on Conor Pass. Obey the signs and turn around ☺️.
- Take it slow. Most parts of Conor Pass only fit one car, so take it slow and pay attention to cars coming your way. There are designated passing spots, so be sure to notice if the car coming is pulling over for you or if you need to find the closest passing spot for them to pass you.
- The road is easier from Dingle Town to the top and more difficult from Cloghane Brandon to the top. So, for the easiest drive, head up from Dingle Town, enjoy Conor Pass Waterfall and Peddler’s Lake, and then turn back to Dingle Town.
- Be sure to stop at Conor Pass Waterfall and visit Peddler’s Lake! The highlight of Conor Pass is definitely scampering up to Peddler’s Lake (especially if you are with kids, it’s a must-do!).
And that’s everything I think you need to know about visiting Conor Pass on the Dingle Peninsula! Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions. I’ll be sure to get back to you.
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