As an avid tower enthusiast, fascinated by anything involving towers or related to them, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to visit Minard Castle on the Dingle Peninsula in Ireland. This castle, constructed by the Fitzgerald clan, had long been on my list of places to explore. With high expectations, I embarked on my journey to the castle.
However, upon arrival, I encountered a small challenge: there was limited parking available. This was just the first obstacle on my path. After parking my car, I decided to walk to the castle, but I soon discovered that it was easier said than done.
Minard Castle is situated in the midst of a field filled with grazing sheep and was not readily accessible to visitors (apologies for adhering to the guidelines). My disappointment grew as I gazed at this impressive stone fortress, separated only by what seemed like an impenetrable barrier of grazing animals.
I yearned to experience that feeling of touching the ancient stones, of getting up close to the history etched into the castle’s walls. But initially, that desire went unfulfilled. It was a bittersweet disappointment to be so close to something extraordinary and yet unable to truly reach it.
Furthermore, during my visit, I had to contend with high tide, making it even more challenging to capture a beautiful photograph of the castle from the beach. The sea submerged the shore, and the image I had in my mind seemed unattainable.
Sometimes stubbornness can be both a virtue and a flaw. Ultimately, I threw in the towel, feeling disappointed and no longer motivated to seek out the perfect photo angle. (Sometimes, a journey is not solely about reaching the destination but about the journey itself. These are comforting words that anyone can offer, but in that moment, they didn’t console me.)
Minard Castle, though inaccessible at that moment, taught me a valuable lesson: things don’t always go as planned.
How to Reach?
Exploring Minard Castle is easily accessible for travelers. From Dingle town, head east on the N86 for approximately 8 kilometers until you reach Lispole. After 2 kilometers, turn right onto the road leading directly to Minard Castle. The exact coordinates are Longitude: 10° 6′ 38″ W and Latitude: 52° 7′ 34″ N.
Is it Suitable for Camper Access?
Yes, but please be aware that parking is extremely limited, with space for only 6 vehicles.
A nerdy deep dive into Minard Castle
Perched majestically atop a picturesque bay, affording enchanting views of the Irish Sea and the Iveragh Peninsula, Minard Castle (is a historical gem that) immediately captures one’s attention. This castle, one of just three Fitzgerald castles dating back to the mid-16th century on the Dingle Peninsula (alongside Rahinnane and Gallarus), still bears the marks of its glorious past. The ruins of Minard Castle consist of a sturdy rectangular tower house constructed from roughly hewn sandstone blocks, firmly held together with mortar.
While the ravages of time have taken their toll on Minard Castle, the outlines of its original design are still visible. Originally featuring four stories, with the first two boasting vaulted ceilings, this castle’s extraordinary solidity became evident in 1650 when Oliver Cromwell’s army planted explosives at each of its corners in a futile attempt to destroy it. The castle withstood this brutal assault, but tragically, all its inhabitants perished during the violence, and the resulting structural damage rendered it uninhabitable.
What sets Minard Castle apart extends beyond its architectural grandeur and historical resilience. It is the breathtaking location that makes this castle one of the highlights of the Dingle Peninsula. Even at high tide, the surrounding beach is a spectacular sight to behold. The beach’s pebbles, smoothed by the force of the sea, are thrown up during storms, creating a natural and impressive storm beach, considered one of the finest in Ireland.
Minard Castle is the third castle on the Dingle Peninsula built by the Fitzgerald clan, following Rahinnane Castle and Gallarus Castle. Despite its ruinous state, the castle continues to impress with its original structure, which has stood the test of time. For visitors, the highlight of their experience is the proximity to the beach, making a visit to Minard Castle an unforgettable and enchanting adventure. Don’t hesitate to have a picnic on the beach while soaking in the breathtaking view of this historical masterpiece. Minard Castle, with its dramatic history and stunning surroundings, remains a timeless symbol of Ireland’s rich heritage.
Updated: Regarding its history, indeed there is evidence that cannonballs have been found at Minard Castle, indicating past sieges and attacks, in addition to attempts to destroy the castle with explosives, which were also repeatedly unsuccessful.
Would I Recommend Minard Castle?
I would personally say no, but that’s based on my own experience. If, like me, you sometimes truly crave the feeling of being right in the midst of history, you might consider skipping it. However, if you do feel compelled to visit, you now have all the necessary information to impress those who wish to visit with your knowledge and enthusiasm.