Nestled in the picturesque waters of Bantry Bay in County Cork, Ireland, lies a hidden gem and a paradise for nature lovers: Garinish Island. This charming little island is a must-see for those wishing to immerse themselves in Ireland’s rich history and culture. The island boasts a unique blend of rugged landscapes, beautiful gardens and breathtaking views, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurers. Garinish Island is home to a plethora of exotic plants, trees and shrubs, all carefully cultivated over the years to create a magical garden. Whether you want to learn more about the island’s rich history, marvel at the beauty of its gardens or simply enjoy its breathtaking views, Garinish Island is a must-see.
Garinish Island – © timursalikhov
Garinish Island, also known as Garnish Island, is a small rocky islet in Bantry Bay on the southwest coast of Ireland.
The island can be reached by ferry from the village of Glengarriff, around 4 km away.
The island, which measures around 15 hectares, is known for its gardens and rich, fascinating history. In the 20th century, the island belonged to John Annan Bryce, a member of the British Parliament and Scottish lawyer, who decided to build his cottage here and began to lay out the gardens for which the island is now famous.
The gardens of Garinish Island are undoubtedly the island’s most outstanding feature. Created by Edwardian landscape designer Howard Peto, the gardens are divided into several distinct zones, each with its own theme and style. Popular areas include the Italian Garden, the Mediterranean Garden and the Tower Garden.
Plants and flowers here are exceptionally rare! The gardens are home to many exotic plants, including palms, tree ferns, rhododendrons and hydrangeas. Imagine subtropical flowers in the heart of Ireland, coexisting with wonderful trees and other species that are particularly hard to find anywhere else in the world!
For the record, Garinish Island was occupied by the British as a military base. That’s why the island boasts an imposing Martello tower in perfect condition.
Don’t hesitate to approach it: it’s a perfect example of the military defence towers that can be seen all along the Irish coast!
Garinish Island is an ideal place for hiking, with many marked trails through the island’s gardens and rugged landscapes. One of the most popular trails is the Lough Trail, which offers spectacular views of the nearby lake and Caha Mountain. Another popular trail is the Lighthouse Trail, which offers panoramic views over Bantry Bay.
In addition to its gardens, Garinish Island offers many other attractions. Visitors can explore the ruins of a 6th-century monastery, said to have been founded by Saint Finbarr.
The island is also home to a large colony of grey seals, which can be observed from the hiking trails that cross the island.
Garinish Island has a small café serving light snacks and drinks. There’s also a small souvenir store on the island, selling local souvenirs and gifts.
Garinish Island is accessible by ferry from the village of Glengarriff. Ferries depart regularly throughout the day, and the journey takes around 15 minutes. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or on site at the pier.
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