Across from the fishing village of Baltimore, in West Cork, is the inspiring retreat of Sherkin Island. One of Carbery’s Hundred Isles, Sherkin is the ancestral home of the O’Driscoll clan whose castle lies just above the pier. Nearby, you can also roam the ruins of a 15th century Franciscan abbey.

Wander along lane ways past banks of red fuschia, bright orange mombrisha and rocky fields hemmed in by dry stone walls.

Sherkin has an automated lighthouse, maintained by locals, that is situated at Barrack Point and dates back to 1835. The lighthouse marks the southern entrance to Baltimore Harbour and the Baltimore Beacon. On the south western side of the island there is a fully functioning Roman Catholic church.

Sherkin buzzes with activity during the summer months and locals are renowned for their warmth and hospitality. Come to hear great live traditional music or enjoy the activities of the Sherkin Family Regatta, a big splash in the island's social calendar.

Sherkin's three sandy beaches make great secluded swimming areas and walking along the shore you may see seals, otters, schools of dolphins or the porpoises which gave the island its name. A number of artists live on the island and Sherkin is unique in running a Fine Arts Degree Course.