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Ventry
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The little village of
Ventry lies on the spectacular coastal Slea Head drive 7 km west of
Dingle Town. The village, which sits at the centre of Ventry
Harbour, was once the main port of the Dingle Peninsula.
Today however , due to its long sandy beach, Ventry has become a
popular tourist destination. The beautiful sandy horseshoe-bay that
stretches over 5km provides a safe swimming area that’s also popular
with windsurfers and horse-riders. There are plenty of local walks
that span out from the village including the renowned Dingle Way.
The Dingle Way passes through Ventry, up Caherard Hill and then down
to and along Ventry Beach before going on to Dunquin
Although small, the Ventry area is oozing with historical activity
which adds to its tourist appeal. Situated about 5km outside Ventry,
the first major ancient monument to be found is Dun Beag. This fort,
dating back to the 8th /9th century, has four earthen rings as its
defenses and an underground escape route. This fort overlooks the
open sea for breathtaking views. Another popular historical monument
is the cross at Kilvicadowning. The legend surrounding this cross
says that, during the battle of Ventry , the king's son was killed
and buried here with the cross marking the spot.
Ventry is the scene in which the ancient romantic tale ‘Cath
Fionntrágha’ (Battle of Ventry Strand) is set. The tale, as told in
a 15th century manuscript, now in the Bodleian Library, Oxford, has
clear descriptions and endless rows of alliterative adjectives. It
describes how Daire Donn, King of the World, and his vassal monarchs
landed at Ventry (Ceann Trá) in an attempt to invade Ireland, and
how they were defeated on the beachhead by the Fianna under Fionn
Mac Cumhaill. It is thought that the writer must have been a native
of the area.
There is plenty to do in Ventry with pony trekking, swimming,
surfing, snorkelling and deep sea fishing (for sharks and conger
eels) all readily available |
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Ventry Holiday Homes - County Kerry, Ireland