What's nearby
Heir Island
Heir Island, Co. Cork
Dog friendly
Family friendly
Free to visit
Hidden gem
Heir Island is one of Carbery’s Hundred Isles that lie scattered throughout Roaringwater Bay in West Cork. This small rugged island is home to spectacular flora and fauna, a famous restaurant and a highly regarded sailing school.

Heir Island, or as it sometimes referred to, Hare Island, is located in the spectacular Roaringwater Bay in West Cork. It is surrounded by a panorama of Sherkin Island, Cape Clear, the Calf Islands, the East and West Skeams and Mount Gabriel to the north.

Heir Island is one of the most accessible and sheltered of the Carbery’s Hundred Isles and can be easily explored on foot or on a bicycle. The extensive marshland at the centre of the island has a vibrant reed bed where you'll find many unusual birds, as well as over two hundred varieties of wild flowers.

The sheltered bays and sandy beaches are perfect for sailing, windsurfing, swimming and diving. The island's sailing school is the best way to make the most of these water sports.

Heir Island is also home to many well known artists, who were drawn to the island because of its breathtaking landscape and peaceful atmosphere.

Food lovers travel from far and wide to get a table at the famous Island Cottage restaurant. With no pubs, but quality B&Bs and self catering homes, Heir Island is a great place to get away from it all.

Tips from locals

Take the ferry to the island from Cunnamore Pier.

Contact details
Heir Island, Co. Cork, Ireland
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