Cosán na Naomh (Saints' Road)
Walk in the footsteps of pilgrims on Cosán na Naomh, an ancient 18-20km route on the Dingle Peninsula, rich with history and stunning views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for clear skies
Cosán na Naomh (Saints' Road)
Best Time
Best chance for clear skies
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk in the footsteps of pilgrims on Cosán na Naomh, an ancient 18-20km route on the Dingle Peninsula, rich with history and stunning views.
"An ancient pilgrim route steeped in history and religious significance, offering breathtaking views. "
🚗 Drive with Care
The road to the carpark is narrow; drive cautiously. :car:
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Hiking boots and poles are essential for slippery and stony sections. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Saints' Path
Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry
An ancient 18-20km pilgrim route steeped in history and religious significance.
Ancient Crosses
Along the trail
Discover numerous ancient crosses marking the path, some with challenging terrain.
Panoramic Views
Higher elevations
Breathtaking vistas of the Dingle Peninsula and surrounding coastline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Plan Your Route & Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive with Care
The road to the carpark is narrow; drive cautiously. :car:
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Hiking boots and poles are essential for slippery and stony sections. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Follow White Markers
White markers guide you along the pathway, but be prepared for challenging terrain. :compass:
🧥 Pack for All Weather
Be ready for rapid weather changes, including snow and hail, even on sunny days. :cloudwithrain:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Care
The road to the carpark is narrow; drive cautiously. :car:
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Hiking boots and poles are essential for slippery and stony sections. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Follow White Markers
White markers guide you along the pathway, but be prepared for challenging terrain. :compass:
🧥 Pack for All Weather
Be ready for rapid weather changes, including snow and hail, even on sunny days. :cloudwithrain:
📜 Get a Pilgrim Passport
Collect a certificate at Dingle Tourist Office for completing the trail. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the historical significance and breathtaking views of Cosán na Naomh, calling it a truly special ancient pilgrim route. However, the challenging and unpredictable weather, coupled with slippery and stony terrain, requires thorough preparation and sturdy gear.
"Road to carpark is pretty narrow so drive with care. Parked up headed up by the grotto, went left up a field over a little stream onto the field again, pathway has white markers to guide you, gets pretty strenuous as you pass the first cross, 9 in total( I may be wrong), weather was great, fantastic views when you turn around and look back. Getting to the cross was pretty dodgy as a lot of loose stones, got to the top and within 5mins it snowed then it pelted down hail stones, I put on my wet gear, but my hands and knees were numb from the hail stones so it was tricky, headed back down, thank god for the hiking boots and poles as it was slippery all the way on way down for about 200m but then I was back to the sunshine 🙏🙏, well worth it."
Helen Theresa Mccoy
"awesome"
Phil Bundy
"Quiet beach ideal for walking and swimming."
Portrait Fotokunst (黒)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cosán na Naomh is located on the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, Ireland. Access is typically via car to a designated parking area. Be aware that the road leading to the carpark can be narrow and requires careful driving.
Yes, there is a carpark available. However, visitors are advised that the road leading to it is quite narrow, so drive with caution.
Public transport options to the specific trailhead might be limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car to reach the starting point of the trail. Research local bus services in Dingle for potential connections.
Many begin their hike from the shore below where horses might be standing, following the ancient pilgrim route towards Mt. Brandon. This section passes significant historical sites.
The road is described as narrow, so while generally passable, drivers should exercise caution, especially with larger vehicles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cosán na Naomh is a public trail and does not typically require an entrance fee or tickets. It's an ancient route open for exploration.
As an outdoor trail, Cosán na Naomh is generally accessible at any time. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery.
No, there is no fee to hike the Saints' Road (Cosán na Naomh). It's a historical trail open to the public.
Yes, you can receive a certificate or 'passport' by visiting the Dingle Tourist Office upon completion of the trail.
While there are no official entry restrictions, it's important to respect the historical and natural environment. Always stay on marked paths and be prepared for challenging weather conditions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The full Cosán na Naomh trail is approximately 18-20km and can take around 5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and stops. Some visitors explore shorter sections.
The terrain can be challenging, with stony paths, loose stones, and slippery sections, especially after rain. Hiking boots and poles are highly recommended.
Restroom facilities are generally not available along the trail itself. It's advisable to use facilities before you start your hike, perhaps in Dingle town.
The trail passes numerous ancient and historical sites, including several ancient crosses that mark the pilgrim route.
While beautiful, the trail can be strenuous and the weather unpredictable. Beginners should consider hiking shorter sections or going with an experienced guide. Proper gear is essential.
📸 📸 Photography
The trail offers stunning panoramic views of the Dingle Peninsula, especially from higher elevations. The ancient crosses and dramatic skies also make for compelling shots.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic effects, especially with the often moody Irish skies. Be prepared for changing light conditions.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a sturdy tripod can be useful if you encounter challenging light. Ensure your camera gear is protected from the elements.
Lookouts along the path, particularly as you gain elevation, offer expansive views. The area around the crosses also provides unique photographic subjects.
Focus on the ancient crosses and the rugged, timeless landscape. Consider including elements of the trail itself, like the white markers, to convey the journey.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ensure children are equipped with appropriate footwear and clothing layers, just like adult hikers. The potential for sudden weather changes means constant vigilance is needed. The reward of a 'pilgrim passport' from the Dingle Tourist Office might also be a fun incentive for older children to complete a portion of the trail.
🚶 Solo Adventurers
Solo hikers must prioritize safety. Inform someone of your hiking plans, including your intended route and expected return time. Be extra vigilant about weather conditions and carry all necessary safety gear, including a fully charged phone. The white markers are helpful, but always be aware of your surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient Pilgrim's Journey
As you walk, you'll encounter numerous ancient crosses that mark the way, each with its own story and weathered beauty. These crosses are not just waymarkers but also testaments to the enduring spiritual heritage of the region. The journey offers a profound connection to the past, allowing visitors to walk in the footsteps of those who have traveled this path for centuries.
Many visitors find a unique sense of peace and connection to history while hiking Cosán na Naomh. The experience is often described as more than just a hike; it's a journey through time. Completing the trail can even earn you a certificate from the Dingle Tourist Office, a tangible reminder of your pilgrimage.
Navigating the Trail and Weather
One of the most crucial aspects of planning a hike on Cosán na Naomh is preparing for the notoriously changeable Irish weather. Even on seemingly clear days, conditions can shift rapidly. Visitors have experienced sudden snow, hail, and heavy rain, even within minutes of each other. Layering clothing, including waterproof and windproof outer layers, is essential.
Despite the potential challenges, the rewards are immense. The stunning panoramic views of the Dingle Peninsula from the higher points of the trail are breathtaking. The dramatic skies, often a signature of the Irish landscape, add to the atmospheric beauty of the experience.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit