Discover the Enchantment of O'Driscoll's Castle
Experience the rich history and stunning scenery of O'Driscoll's Castle on Cape Clear Island, a hidden gem in County Cork, Ireland.
O'Driscoll's Castle, perched on the stunning Cape Clear Island, offers a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's rich history and breathtaking landscapes. This remarkable tourist attraction draws visitors with its captivating stone structure, scenic views, and the enchanting backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, making it a must-see for those exploring County Cork.
A brief summary to O'Driscoll's Castle
- Ballyieragh North, Cape Clear, Co. Cork, IE
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit, as coastal weather can change rapidly.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain around the castle can be uneven.
- Take some time to explore the surrounding area; the island is known for its beautiful walking trails.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Mizen Head to O'Driscoll's Castle, start by heading northeast on the R591 from Mizen Head. Continue for about 23 kilometers until you reach the ferry terminal at Baltimore. From there, you will need to take a ferry to Cape Clear Island. The ferry ride takes approximately 45 minutes and costs around €20 round trip for adults, with discounts available for children. Once you arrive at Cape Clear, follow the signs to Ballyieragh North. O'Driscoll's Castle is a short walk from the ferry terminal.
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Public Transportation
To reach O'Driscoll's Castle using public transport, you can take a bus from Mizen Head to Skibbereen, which operates several times a day. From Skibbereen, take another bus to Baltimore. Once in Baltimore, you will need to catch the ferry to Cape Clear Island. The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes and costs approximately €20 for a round trip. After arriving at Cape Clear, follow the local signs to Ballyieragh North where O'Driscoll's Castle is located, which is a short walk from the ferry landing.
Discover more about O'Driscoll's Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mizen Peak
20.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Mizen Peak in Co. Cork, Ireland's stunning southwestern point, perfect for adventure and scenic photography.
Mizen Head Visitor Centre
20.7 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich maritime history at Mizen Head Visitor Centre in County Cork, Ireland - a true gem along the Atlantic coastline.
Mizen Head Signal Station
21.2 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich maritime history at Mizen Head Signal Station, a must-visit destination on Ireland's stunning coastline.
Mizen Head Lighthouse
21.2 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich maritime history at Mizen Head Lighthouse, a must-see destination on Ireland's stunning southwestern coast.
Bere Island
32.6 km
Discover Bere Island: A West Cork gem with ancient history, stunning scenery & tranquil island life. Perfect for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way.
Drombeg Stone Circle
32.7 km
Explore the ancient Drombeg Stone Circle in Co. Cork, a historical landmark steeped in mystery and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Healy Pass Scenic Viewpoint
35.1 km
Discover Healy Pass Scenic Viewpoint: Breathtaking panoramic vistas along a winding mountain road in County Cork, Ireland.
Healy Pass
35.6 km
Experience the wild beauty of Ireland on the Healy Pass: a historic mountain road offering breathtaking views and an unforgettable journey.
Caha Pass
37.9 km
Drive through the rugged Caha Mountains on the N71, and experience breathtaking panoramic views of Ireland's stunning natural beauty.
Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @Galley Head View
39.1 km
Experience the stunning views at Galley Head View, a scenic gem along the Wild Atlantic Way in County Cork, Ireland.
Priest's Leap
39.6 km
Experience the thrill of Priest's Leap: a legendary mountain pass with stunning views on the Cork-Kerry border.
The Beara Gallery
42.1 km
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Uragh Stone Circle(Ciorcal Cloch Uragh)
43.3 km
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Kilcatherine Church
44.1 km
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Loughane More Ring Fort
44.7 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cape Clear
2.3 km
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Standing Stones
3.1 km
Explore the ancient mystery of the Standing Stones in Co. Cork, a serene and scenic tourist attraction steeped in history and natural beauty.
Cow Strand
7.5 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Cow Strand on Sherkin Island, a hidden paradise in County Cork perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.
Goat Island Beacon
8.0 km
Explore Goat Island Beacon in Ballybrack, Co. Cork, where stunning coastal views and rich maritime history await every visitor.
Castle Point Tower House
10.0 km
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Schull Harbour Picnic Area
10.0 km
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Altar Wedge Tomb
12.3 km
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Túr an Chaisleáin
14.2 km
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Ogham Stone
16.4 km
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White Strand
16.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of White Strand in Co. Cork, Ireland, where golden sands meet tranquil waters and stunning coastal views await.
Gortdubh pier
17.8 km
Gortdubh Pier: A serene escape in Co. Cork, where nature meets tranquility amidst breathtaking views of Ireland’s coastline.
Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @Barley Cove
18.0 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Barley Cove, a picturesque beach along the Wild Atlantic Way, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Floating Walkway, Barleycove
18.2 km
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Barley Cove Beach
18.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Barley Cove Beach in Cork, a perfect escape for relaxation and adventure by the sea.
Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point @Mizen Head
20.6 km
Discover the stunning cliffs and iconic lighthouse at Mizen Head, a signature point on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way, where nature and history meet.
Essential places to dine
Sean Rua's Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience delightful dining at Sean Rua's Restaurant in Cape Clear Island - where local flavors meet breathtaking views.
Pizzheiria
8.7 km
Discover Pizzheiria on Heir Island – where artisanal pizzas meet breathtaking coastal views in County Cork.
Island Cottage
8.7 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Island Cottage on Hare Island – where hospitality meets breathtaking views.
The New Haven
10.0 km
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The Townhouse O D's
10.1 km
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Nico's Food & Wine
10.1 km
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The Bunratty Inn
10.1 km
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Restaurant Chestnut - West Cork
14.3 km
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Budds Restaurant
14.3 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Budds Restaurant in Ballydehob - where fresh local ingredients meet warm hospitality.
The Heron's Cove Restaurant and B&B
15.0 km
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O'Sullivans Bar, Crookhaven
15.0 km
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Nottage Bar and Restaurant
15.0 km
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Beach Bar Restaurant
18.9 km
Experience exceptional coastal dining at Beach Bar Restaurant in Barleycove, where stunning views meet delicious local cuisine.
The Old Creamery
20.5 km
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Bridge View House Restaurant also B&B
20.6 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Bridge View House Restaurant & B&B in Bantry, Co. Cork – where culinary delight meets cozy comfort.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
An Siopa Beag
0.6 km
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Sean The Shop
8.8 km
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Nurture & Bliss
9.8 km
Discover Nurture & Bliss in Schull, Co. Cork – a baby store dedicated to quality, sustainability, and the joy of parenting.
West Cork Natural Cheese Limited
10.0 km
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Present company
10.1 km
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The Vintage Room
10.1 km
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Barnett’s of Schull
10.1 km
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East Meets West Schull West Cork Ireland
10.1 km
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Courtyard Crafts
10.1 km
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Bru Columbanus
10.1 km
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Kiki's Corner Studio
12.5 km
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OSKA
13.7 km
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Ancient Irish Remedies
14.3 km
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The Copper Merchant
14.3 km
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Out there Ware
14.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cotters Bar
0.6 km
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Minihan's Bar
12.4 km
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Irish Whip
14.2 km
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Rosies Bar
14.3 km
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Crookhaven Inn
15.0 km
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Ahakista Bar
19.8 km
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The Longboat Bar
20.4 km
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Eileens Bar
20.6 km
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The Wild Atlantic Bar
29.6 km
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Murphy Pub Bar
30.1 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Murphy Pub Bar in Adrigole, Co. Cork, where local brews and stunning landscapes await.
Railway Bar
30.2 km
Experience the heart of Irish culture at Railway Bar in Baurnahulla, Co. Cork, where great drinks and lively atmosphere await.
Dessie's Bar
30.3 km
Discover Dessie's Bar in Millcove, a cozy Irish pub offering a delightful selection of drinks and a warm atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Mc Carthy’s Bar
30.3 km
Experience the authentic Irish pub atmosphere at McCarthy’s Bar in Baurnahulla, Co. Cork, a hub for local culture and delightful beverages.
The Beehive Bar
34.0 km
The Beehive Bar in Connonagh, Co. Cork, offers an inviting Irish pub experience with local cuisine and lively ambiance.
Cottage Bar
34.8 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Cottage Bar in Glengarriff, where local brews and traditional cuisine await in a cozy setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Chléire
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Club Chléire, a lively bar in Co. Cork offering local drinks and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Hackett's Bar
10.1 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Hackett's Bar in Schull, where delicious drinks and live music create unforgettable memories.
Levis Corner House
14.3 km
Experience the heart of Ballydehob at Levis Corner House, where local culture meets charming hospitality in a vibrant bar setting.
The Wild West Bar
15.1 km
Discover the heart of Goleen at The Wild West Bar, where lively music, delicious food, and a great selection of drinks await you.
Cotter's Bar & Chaser's Nightclub
21.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Gortnaclohy at Cotter's Bar & Chaser's Nightclub, where great drinks and music create unforgettable memories.
Tanyard
21.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Skibbereen at Tanyard, a lively bar offering a fantastic selection of drinks and live entertainment.
Murphys Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse Killarney
69.0 km
Discover the charm of Killarney at Murphys Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse, where traditional Irish hospitality meets modern culinary delights.
Sully's Bar Killarney
69.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and authentic Irish hospitality at Sully's Bar, a must-visit spot in Killarney, County Kerry.
Jimmy Brien's Bar
69.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Jimmy Brien's Bar in Killarney, where sports, local brews, and hearty meals come together in a warm, inviting setting.
Kingdom Comedy Club @ The Shire Killarney
69.1 km
Discover Killarney's Kingdom Comedy Club for a night of laughter and unforgettable entertainment in a cozy atmosphere.
The Shire Bar & Cafe
69.1 km
Explore The Shire Bar & Cafe in Killarney for a delightful fusion of breakfast, lunch, and live entertainment in a cozy atmosphere.
Speakeasy Bar
69.1 km
Discover Killarney's vibrant nightlife at Speakeasy Bar, where authentic Irish charm meets contemporary culture.
The Sportsmans Bar
69.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Sportsmans Bar in Killarney, where locals and tourists gather for great drinks, sports, and live music.
Jack C's Bar
69.2 km
Discover the charm of Jack C's Bar in Killarney, where traditional Irish culture meets a vibrant atmosphere and delicious local brews.
Husseys Bar
69.2 km
Discover Husseys Bar, a vibrant Killarney pub offering a true taste of Irish culture with friendly locals and live music.
