Courses and Services

Here are the courses and services that are available in Dún Chíomháin.

• A Gaeltacht semester for Irish students of University College Cork
• Specialised Irish and cultural courses for groups in Ireland as well as international groups
• Weekend courses for students of University College Cork
• During the summer months the Dún is made available as part of the UCC Family Language Scheme in order to promote the use of the Irish language amongst staff members.
• Lectures in literature, culture and local history for members of the community are organized in collaboration with Oidhreacht Chorca Dhuibhne
• A University Diploma in Irish for locals of Corca Dhuibhne
• A centre for conferences/seminars that is available to the public
• A centre for research and study that is available to the public

Resources

• Accommodation in the form of a hostel for up to 18 people (two or three people in every room)
• Modern kitchen
• Dining room
• Sitting room/library
• Fully fitted apartment which is wheelchair accessible
• A learning unit with workstations and video-conferencing facilities
• Fibre-optic broadband
• Seminar/Lecture room
• Carpark and an area to sit outside

An Halla at Dún Chíomháin

An Halla in Dún Chíomháin is designed with the needs of the 21st century learner in mind. It is fitted out with moveable and flexible equipment and furniture which are directed at the e-learning approaches associated with BYOD (Bring Your Own Device), and which encourage a student centred approach to teaching and learning. This new age learning space encompasses all aspects of the modern approach to teaching and learning insofar as it facilitates individual learning, group learning, informal learning, and the traditional lecture: at the same time as providing students with a social area with a strong climate conducive to the learning process. The principles of UDL (Universal Design for Learning) were firmly applied to the design and construction of this learning space.

Mr. Joe McHugh, Minister of State for the Gaeltacht, offically opened An Halla on 19 June 2018 in the company of UCC President, Prof Patrick O'Shea at an event which was attended by the communities of Corca Dhuibhne and UCC.

Travelling to Dún Chíomháin

Dún Chíomháin is situated approximately half a kilometre east of Ballyferriter. You can find pubs, a hotel, a grocery shop a coffee shop and other such services in Ballyferriter. The mountain summit of Cruach Mhárthain and one of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland, An Béal Bán, can both be found close to the Dún.

If you do not have access to a car, you can get a bus or a train to Tralee and then you can transfer to the bus to Dingle. On occasion a bus may even travel as far as Ballyferriter. There is a good taxi service in the region too.

The Surrounding Region

There are many restaurants and pubs nearby. Traditional music can be found in various different pubs in the region. It is worth visiting the Great Blasket Island and The Blasket Centre in Dún Chaoin to get an insight on the lives of the people who lived on the island up until 1954. If you are interested in walking, there are many amazing tracks and trails in the vicinity such as Cosán na Naomh, The Dingle Way and Heritage Walks. You can walk on these routes on your own or you can be accompanied by a guide. Many historical and archaeological sites can be found in the area too. If you are interested in water sports you can avail of sailing classes or you could even go kayaking.

Events in Dún Chíomháin

Violin Lessons for Adult Learners with Máire Breatnach

It is a great privilage that the renowned musician Máire Breatnach is living amongst us and that she is ready to get us all playing the violin.

Máire has plenty of experience of playing on the big stage, but now she wishes to share her skills with the people of Corca Dhuibhne. 12 students attended her first class, 7 November 2024. It was the first time for many of those in attendance holding a violin but it wasn't long before Máire put them at ease. We look forward to hearing a few carols from them at the Christmas party!