Sybil Head

Nestled on the rugged coast of County Kerry lies a hidden gem that many visitors to Ireland have yet to discover: Sybil Head(Ceann Sibéal in Irish Gaelic). This natural wonder is a series of cliffs on the Dingle Peninsula. They offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the nearby Blasket Islands. But Sybil Head isn’t just a beautiful sight – it’s also steeped in history and folklore, with tales of ancient warriors and a tragic shipwreck still haunting the area today.

History of Sybil Head

A place marked by mythology and shipwrecks

View from Sybil Head, on the Dingle Peninsula – © Monica

Sybil Head is steeped in history and legend. According to legend, the Irish king Lir was buried in the area after being poisoned by his wife. The area is also known for its links with the ancient Irish warriors, who would have used the cliffs as a base for their epic battles.

More recently, Sybil Head was the scene of a tragic shipwreck in 1985, when the infamous fishing vessel FV Tónaí crashed into the rocks off the coast.

Today, visitors can see the remains of the wreck on the beach below the cliffs. Expect a heap of rusty sheet metal, and a lot of debris here and there against the rocks…

Visit Sybil Head

Cliffs facing the ocean

Sybil Head is a group of cliffs in County Kerry, in the west of Ireland. The area is famous for its sheer cliffs, towering over the Atlantic Ocean at over 260 meters, offering breathtaking panoramic views typical of the Irish countryside.

For hikers, Sybil Head offers a wide range of activities for visitors. Here are some of the most popular things to do when visiting Sybil Head:

Hiking trails :

Sybil Head is famous for its magnificent hiking trails, which offer breathtaking views of the coastline. The most popular hiking trail at Sybil Head is the Dingle Way, a 179 km hike that crosses the Dingle Peninsula and passes by these cliffs.

The hiking trail offers spectacular views of the area’s wilderness, including the sheer cliffs of Sybil Head. The level is reasonable, but requires specific hiking equipment, including shoes, rucksack, water, food and everything else needed to complete the tour. Beware: it will take you several weeks to complete the 179km trail! But believe us: the Dingle Way is an adventure in itself!

Fauna and flora at Sybil Head

Sybil Head is a favorite spot for nature lovers. The region is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including seals, dolphins and seabirds. Visitors can also admire the many plants and flowers that grow in the area, including heather and broom.

Tips for visiting Sybil Head

Before visiting the cliffs, it is important to consider a few tips to maximize your experience:

Wear warm, waterproof clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable in the region.
Make sure you have comfortable hiking boots for the trails.
Bring a bottle of water and snacks to make sure you have enough energy to explore the area.
Respect the natural environment and follow safety rules when visiting the region.
Choose a day with clear weather, otherwise you may be disappointed by the view (the panorama may be obscured by mist or low clouds).
Above all, don’t lean over: the cliffs have no barriers or railings. Accidents happen (not least because of the increase in selfies, with visitors falling from dizzying heights).