Self Catering Accommodation Guide to Bere Island, Co. Cork, Ireland

About Bere Island

Bere Island the largest of the West Cork Islands, occupies a commanding position at the mouth of Bantry Bay. To the North there is the rugged and beautiful Beara Peninsula, while to the east and south lies the vast bay, which has paid host to some of the world’s largest ships. The Island faces the open Atlantic to the south offering spectacular views in all directions. Scattered throughout the island are many military artifacts from the Victorian fortification, which Britain built to protect its naval base up until 1938.

The Island has several safe and sheltered coves for swimming, snorkeling or deep-sea fishing.

There is excellent shore angling available on the Island.

There are several shops, pubs and an excellent Restaurant, together with a beautiful Marina full of Yachts and a craft shop. 

Local Amenities in Bere Island

  • Boat Trips
  • Forest
  • Hill Walking
  • Historical Sites
  • Pubs
  • Sailing
  • Deep-sea Diving
  • Scenic Walks
  • Sea Angling
  • Shore Angling
  • Walking Trails
  • Seaviews 

Places of Historical Interest

There is an endless amount of places of historical interest to visit including two Martello Towers built in 1804, a Gallan or standing stone, a Megalithic Wedge Tomb erected circa 2000 BC, a Lighthouse and a Holy Year Cross constructed in 1950.

Places to Visit Near Bere Island

If you feel like venturing off the Island, there are many attractions within a short driving distance. The town of Kenmare is a Mecca for some of the finest restaurants in Ireland. You really will be spoilt for choice when it comes to Dining out - from bar food to seafood and a range of other types of excellent restaurants to experience.

Bantry House and Gardens

The Hutchinson family built this mansion on the shore of Bantry Bay c 1740. The White family enlarged the house in 1765. Many treasures can be viewed, extensive art collection and tapestries. Guided tours and tearooms. Mar-Oct

'The Mizen Vision'

Visitor Centre in the Keeper's house and the Engine Room, the famous suspension bridge, the 99 steps and the views up the South and the West coasts, combined with the exhilaration and excitement of the wild Atlantic waves and ancient tortured rocks, guarantee a unique and authentic experience. in any weather the Magic of the Mizen is spellbinding.

Garnish Island

is bathed by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream and surrounded by scenery of great natural beauty. The Italian garden, designed by Harold Peto, has a Martello tower, clock tower, Grecian temple overlooking the sea, flights of steps and magnificent pediment gateways. All of those architectural features are integrated with a plant collection of world renown. The island is reached by licensed boats from Glengariff for which there are independent charges. The last landing is one hour before closing. Facilities include toilets, disabled toilets and self-guiding trails. Coffee shop. Last admission 45 minutes before closing.

Creagh Gardens

Creagh Gardens is an informal garden of light woodland filled with many of the plants that enjoy the gentle climate of West Cork. These include rhododendrons, camellias and magnolias. The design of the water garden lying below the house was inspired by the paintings of Le Douanier by Rousseau. The exotic foliage of gunnera, dicksonia and phormium on the banks of the stream evokes a jungle fantasy which a traditional walled kitchen garden has exotic varieties of fowl.