Official tourism website for Cork, Ireland

Cape Clear Island

Cape Clear Island, Ireland's most southerly Gaeltacht, is a glistening jewel in the crown of Cork’s Maritime Paradise. It sits at the southerly end of Roaring Water Bay facing the wild Atlantic but its rugged green hills, cute harbours, spectacular views and isolation emanate tranquillity.

The gentle chug of a distant fishing boat or the gleeful chirp of a migratory bird that has flown a thousand miles north to be here is all that ‘threatens’ your serenity. Exploring the natural world here brings rewards like no other - there are daily trips to watch whales, basking sharks, seals and dolphins and the island’s location makes it birdwatching heaven.

A trip to the iconic Fastnet lighthouse is a must – the rock’s peaceful appearance belies the dramatic, seafaring tales that have made it famous. In fact, stories are so valued in this part of Cork that there’s even a festival dedicated to it – the International Storytelling Festival draws big names and big crowds to the island in late August.

Take the Cailín Óir ferry from Baltimore or Cape Clear Ferries operate services from both Baltimore and Schull.

Getting to Cape Clear Island

Cape Clear Island is accessible by ferry from Baltimore and Schull which are both approx 1hr 40min drive from Cork City and Cork Airport. Bus 237 departs the bus station at Parnell Place, Cork City several times a day serving both villages.

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