Garnish Island: A Horticultural Haven in Bantry Bay
Discover Garnish Island: A stunning island garden in Glengarriff Bay with exotic plants, historical architecture, and breathtaking scenery.
Garnish Island, also known as Ilnacullin, is a stunning island garden in Glengarriff Bay, County Cork, celebrated for its lush gardens and historical features. Transformed from a barren rock into a horticultural paradise, it offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and designed landscapes.
A brief summary to Garnish Island
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Local tips
- Book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during the summer months, to ensure you get a spot.
- Bring cash, as card payments are not accepted for the island admission fee.
- Allow at least 90 minutes to fully explore the island's gardens and Bryce House.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the island's paths and exploring the rocky landscape.
Getting There
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Ferry
Garnish Island is accessible only by ferry from Glengarriff. Several ferry services operate from Glengarriff Pier and the Blue Pool Amenity Area. The ferry trip takes approximately 15 minutes. Typical cost for a round-trip ferry is €12-€15 per adult. Upon arrival on the island, there is a separate admission fee of €5 per adult, payable in cash. It is advisable to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
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Public Transport
If arriving by public transport, Bus Éireann route 236 from Cork City stops in Glengarriff. The ferry departure points are a short walk from the bus stop. From the Glengarriff bus stop, walk towards the Glengarriff Pier or the Blue Pool Amenity Area to catch the ferry to Garnish Island.
Discover more about Garnish Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Caha Pass
5.4 km
Drive through the rugged Caha Mountains on the N71, and experience breathtaking panoramic views of Ireland's stunning natural beauty.
Priest's Leap
8.0 km
Experience the thrill of Priest's Leap: a legendary mountain pass with stunning views on the Cork-Kerry border.
Healy Pass Scenic Viewpoint
14.5 km
Discover Healy Pass Scenic Viewpoint: Breathtaking panoramic vistas along a winding mountain road in County Cork, Ireland.
The Beara Gallery
21.1 km
Discover the beauty of the Beara Peninsula through the eyes of local artists at The Beara Gallery, showcasing the Wild Atlantic Way's unique charm.
Ardgroom Stone Circle
22.5 km
Explore the ancient Ardgroom Stone Circle in County Cork, a Bronze Age monument offering a unique glimpse into Ireland's prehistoric past.
Bere Island
25.1 km
Discover Bere Island: A West Cork gem with ancient history, stunning scenery & tranquil island life. Perfect for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way.
Altar Wedge Tomb
25.7 km
Discover the ancient wonders of the Altar Wedge Tomb in Co. Cork, a significant megalithic monument steeped in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes.
The Bere Island Heritage & Information centre
25.8 km
Explore the rich history and natural beauty of Bere Island at the Heritage & Information Centre, a captivating museum in County Cork.
Ladies' View Gift Store Cafe Bar & Roof Terrace
25.9 km
Discover the charm of Ladies' View Gift Store Cafe Bar & Roof Terrace in Killarney, where stunning views meet unique shopping and delightful dining experiences.
Sneem Sculpture Trail
26.9 km
Explore the Sneem Sculpture Trail, where nature meets creativity in a stunning outdoor exhibition of over 30 captivating sculptures in County Kerry.
Owengarriff River
27.7 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of Owengarriff River in Killarney National Park – a hidden gem for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Derreenataggart Stone Circle
28.1 km
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Kilcatherine Church
29.5 km
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Head of the Gap of Dunloe
29.5 km
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Killarney National Park Car Park
29.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Killarney National Park from its accessible car park, your gateway to Ireland's natural wonders.
Unmissable attractions to see
Garinish Island (Oileán Garinis)
0.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Garinish Island, a horticultural gem in County Cork, where lush gardens and stunning coastal views await travelers.
Martello Tower
0.1 km
Discover the historical allure of Martello Tower on Garnish Island, a stunning landmark steeped in Ireland's maritime history and natural beauty.
Bryce House
0.1 km
Explore the restored home of Garnish Island's creators and discover the history of this horticultural paradise in Bantry Bay, County Cork.
The Grecian Temple
0.2 km
Discover tranquility at the Grecian Temple on Garinish Island, where classical architecture meets stunning natural beauty in a unique garden paradise.
Salmon Rock
1.4 km
Discover Salmon Rock & the Glengarriff Blue Pool: A scenic harbor, nature park, and gateway to Garnish Island on the Beara Peninsula.
Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @Blue Pool
1.4 km
Discover a tranquil woodland oasis where river meets sea, offering scenic trails and ferry access to Garnish Island.
Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @Glengarriff Harbour
1.4 km
Discover the scenic beauty of Glengarriff Harbour, a Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point and gateway to Garinish Island and the Beara Peninsula.
Maureen O Hara Statue
1.6 km
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Glengarriff
1.6 km
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Glengarriff Harbour
1.7 km
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Bamboo Park(Páirc Bambú)
1.8 km
Discover exotic bamboo, tranquil gardens, and stunning harbor views at this unique West Cork park. A serene escape for nature lovers.
Lady Bantry's Lookout
2.2 km
Hike to Lady Bantry's Lookout in Glengarriff for breathtaking panoramic views of Bantry Bay, lush woodlands, and the Caha Mountains.
Esknamucky Walk & Waterfall
3.0 km
Hike the Esknamucky Walk in Glengarriff Nature Reserve for stunning views, lush woodlands, and a refreshing waterfall experience in County Cork.
Pooleen Wood
4.6 km
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The Ewe Experience
4.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Bank House(Teach an Bhainc)
6.4 km
Discover Bank House in Co. Cork - where authentic Irish cuisine meets friendly hospitality in a cozy setting.
Con's Bar and Seafood Restaurant, Kenmare
14.1 km
Experience exceptional seafood dining at Con's Bar and Seafood Restaurant in Kenmare, where fresh flavors meet breathtaking views.
Sailor Bar, Kenmare
14.2 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Sailor Bar in Kenmare—where great food meets stunning scenery.
The Stables Brasserie & Bar
15.3 km
Experience exceptional local cuisine at The Stables Brasserie & Bar in Kenmare - where taste meets tradition amidst stunning natural beauty.
The Falls Restaurant
15.3 km
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Park Hotel Kenmare
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Discover unparalleled luxury at Park Hotel Kenmare—an enchanting blend of fine dining, lavish accommodations, and serene spa experiences amidst stunning Irish landscapes.
Josie's Lakeview House
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Lime Tree Restaurant
16.0 km
Experience culinary excellence at Lime Tree Restaurant in Kenmare – where local flavors meet modern dining.
Lagom Restaurant & Accommodation Kenmare
16.0 km
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The Purple Heather Bistro & Pub
16.1 km
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Tom Crean Restaurant
16.1 km
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Tom Crean Brewery & Shop Kenmare
16.1 km
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Lily House Thai & Chinese Restaurant
16.1 km
Experience authentic Thai and Chinese cuisine in the heart of Kenmare at Lily House – where every meal is a culinary journey.
Davitt's Kenmare
16.1 km
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O Donnabhain's
16.1 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine and vibrant live music at O Donnabhain's in Kenmare - your gateway to local culture!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Quill's Woollen Market
1.5 km
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The Spinning Wheel, Glengarriff
1.6 km
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Weavers of Ireland
1.6 km
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B-apparrell
1.6 km
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Beara Belts (Local Market : Fri-Sat-Sun.)
8.8 km
Explore Beara Belts in Bantry for exquisite handmade leather goods that embody the spirit of Ireland's artisan culture, perfect for unique souvenirs.
Mizenhead Outlet
8.9 km
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Meara and Morley
9.0 km
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Sola Boutique
9.0 km
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The Boutique
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The Weavers Shop
10.3 km
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Adrigole Arts
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Wild Atlantic Way Antiques
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Finnegan's Corner
16.0 km
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Roddy O'Donoghue
16.0 km
Explore the charm of Kenmare at Roddy O'Donoghue, your go-to destination for authentic Irish products and local treasures.
The White Room
16.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cottage Bar
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The Wild Atlantic Bar
10.1 km
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Collins Bar
11.3 km
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The Longboat Bar
12.8 km
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Murphy Pub Bar
12.9 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Murphy Pub Bar in Adrigole, Co. Cork, where local brews and stunning landscapes await.
Ahakista Bar
16.6 km
Experience the charm of Ahakista Bar, a cozy pub with a stunning beer garden overlooking the sea in County Cork, Ireland.
Irish Whip
20.1 km
Discover the essence of Irish culture at Irish Whip, where warmth, local brews, and traditional cuisine meet in the heart of Ballydehob.
Rosies Bar
20.2 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Rosie's Bar in Ballydehob, a local gem offering authentic Irish hospitality and a vibrant atmosphere.
Eileens Bar
20.5 km
Discover the charm of Eileen's Bar in Kilcrohane, where authentic Irish hospitality meets a cozy atmosphere and lively music.
Railway Bar
21.2 km
Experience the heart of Irish culture at Railway Bar in Baurnahulla, Co. Cork, where great drinks and lively atmosphere await.
Mc Carthy’s Bar
21.3 km
Experience the authentic Irish pub atmosphere at McCarthy’s Bar in Baurnahulla, Co. Cork, a hub for local culture and delightful beverages.
Dessie's Bar
22.1 km
Discover Dessie's Bar in Millcove, a cozy Irish pub offering a delightful selection of drinks and a warm atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Ardgroom Village
24.4 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich culture of Ardgroom Village, a hidden gem on the Beara Peninsula in County Cork, Ireland.
Top of Coom Ireland's Highest pub
25.4 km
Discover Top of Coom, Ireland's highest pub, where breathtaking views and authentic Irish hospitality await every visitor.
Minihan's Bar
26.1 km
Experience the heart of Irish culture at Minihan's Bar in Co. Cork, where friendly faces and great drinks await you.
