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Cape Clear Island - Oileán Chléire
Dog friendly
Family friendly
Free to visit
The Gaeltacht island of Cléire, or Cape Clear, is Ireland’s southernmost island and is a paradise of solitude and inspiration. West of the island stands the iconic Fastnet Rock and to the northwest stretches Mizen Head.

This wildly romantic island can not help but impress those who visit. Cape Clear, or Oileán Chléire, is a Gaeltacht island 13km off the coast of West Cork. It is Ireland’s southernmost inhabited island.

Only 5km long and 2km wide, Cape Clear's remote isolation has created a unique and fiercely proud culture.

Heather, gorse and wild flowers cover the rugged hills between dry stone walls. Megalithic standing stones, a 5,000-year-old passage grave, a 12th-century church ruin and a 14th-century castle are testament to the island's rich cultural heritage.

Cape Clear's rugged scenery, sheltered harbours, cliffs, bogs and scenic pebble beaches all contribute to the island’s unspoilt charm.

You'll be steeped in wildlife on the island: rare migratory birds, whales, sun fish and shark are spotted from the island every year, as well as the regular visitors, the dolphins. The abundance of flora and fauna makes for fabulous walking.

The islanders of Cape Clear are a friendly bilingual community removed from the hustle and bustle of mainland life. Whether you come to Cape Clear to get close to nature, learn a bit of 'an Ghaeilge', taste some goats milk ice cream or enjoy the island's famous hospitality, Oileán Chléire offers relaxation, nature and peace.

Tips from locals

Visit the holy well of of St. Ciarán, the patron saint of Cape Clear Island.

Contact details
Cape Clear Island,Co Cork,Republic of Ireland
More to discover at Cape Clear Island - Oileán Chléire
Coastal escapesCape Clear - Gleann Loop

No trip to West Cork’s iconic Cape Clear is complete without a hike around the 7km Gleann Loop. Moderately challenging, it’s a real breathtaker, with unmatched views of the wide and wild Atlantic your reward for hitting the trail and spending an hour or two in the great outdoors.

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