Glanteenassig Forest Park: A Hidden Gem on the Dingle Peninsula

Glanteenassig Forest Park, whose name derives from the Irish 'Gleann Tí an Easaigh' meaning 'Valley of the Waterfalls,' is a stunning 450-hectare park located on the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry. A true hidden gem, it offers a diverse landscape of woodland, mountains, lakes, and peatland. The majority of the forest was planted in the 1950s and 60s and consists mainly of Sitka spruce and Lodgepole pine, but you can also find silver fir, larch, beech as well as native species such as birch, alder and holly. The park features three marked trails catering to various fitness levels. The River Trail is an easy 1 km walk that follows the Owencashla River, with picnic tables dotted along the route. The Lough Slat View is another easy, accessible 0.3 km walk offering fantastic views of Lough Slat and Carrignaspaniagh. For a more moderate challenge, the Lough Caum Loop is a 2 km trail that encircles Lough Caum, with boardwalks protecting the delicate bogland. Fishing is permitted in Lough Slat and Lough Caum with the appropriate permits. Glanteenassig is ideal for those seeking a remote escape and a chance to connect with nature. The park's location in a sheltered valley below the Slieve Mish mountains contributes to its serene atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy views of Brandon Bay, Tralee Bay, and the Maharees tombolo from certain points within the park. The park is open from 8:00 to 22:00 in the summer and 8:00 to 18:00 in the winter. Camping and overnight accommodations are not permitted.