Top Things to do in Ireland’s Ancient East
Top 9 Islands in Ireland’s Ancient East, Ireland’s Ancient East
Discover the best top things to do in Ireland’s Ancient East, Ireland including Saints Island, Garinish Island, Dursey Island, Cape Clear Island, Sherkin Island, Heir Island, Spike Island, Saltee Islands, Long Island.
Restaurants in Ireland’s Ancient East
1. Saints Island
2. Garinish Island
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 792 reviews
Garnish Island (Ilnacullin Garinish or Garnish) is located in the sheltered harbour of Glengarriff in Bantry Bay, in Southwest Ireland. Garnish is world renowned for its gardens which are laid out in beautiful walks and it has some stunning specimen plants which are rare in this climate.
Reviewed By Morr2013 - Limerick, Ireland
Going to Garnish Island is a must. It is stunning. The ferry over was equally as good we got the Harbour Queen ferry company, lovely people gave great information, we got to see dolphins and seals up close, which my daughter loved. Walking around garnish Island was so nice and relaxing, and stunning to see.
3. Dursey Island
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 138 reviews
Reviewed By uplands99 - Cork, Ireland
We got a cable car around 11am and we only had to wait 30 minutes. It is a hilly walk on the island so bring good shoes and some water. There is no shop or pub on the island. There was a van selling teas and coffees and snacks when we were leaving the island. The views are breathtaking
4. Cape Clear Island
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 185 reviews
Reviewed By Irish_Lights_Up - Dublin, Ireland
We took the Cape Clear Ferries boat from Baltimore and got a beautiful sunny day. Cape Clear is unspoiled and reminds me of rural Ireland when I was a kid - before the motorways and convenience stores homogenised it. You are surrounded by idyllic beauty and have time to slow down to the island’s pace. Bring a lunch, Prepare for all weather conditions and enjoy!
5. Sherkin Island
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 207 reviews
Reviewed By MartinH325 - Dún Laoghaire, Ireland
Easy to get to with regular ferries from Baltimore. Lovely walks and views. Nice sheltered beach for swimming and sunbathing followed by food and drinks in one of the nice bars.
6. Heir Island
7. Spike Island
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,550 reviews
Discover Ireland's Captains & Convicts, Rebels and Rioters & Sinners and Saints at Spike Island Cork, voted Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction of 2017! The Island is located off the coast of Cobh in Cork harbour & has over 1300 years of Irish history. From an island monastery & fortress to the world's largest prison in the 1850's and centuries of island homes. Your journey starts with a ferry ride before Ireland's best storytellers take you on a guided tour of the outer island and fortress. You can then self explore our prison cells, fortress, beautiful island walks and also use our on-site cafe. Attractions include the 1850's punishment block with its dark cells, the 1980's prison cells and riot exhibition, Ireland's largest artillery gun park and several penal, military and social history museums. With activities for children and families and guided and self-guided tours, Spike Island has something for everyone. Groups welcome, audioguides in French, German and English available.
Reviewed By LindaS3814
What a great experience we had on a day out to spike island ,I have lived in Cobh for the last 48 years and never new what history was at our door step . From start to finish it was a great few hours spent Our tour guide (Ross) had us enthralled with his knowledge and story telling and made it an experience that I will defiantly be repeating soon Thanks Claudine Kavanagh for recommending this tour to us .Colie and Linda O Sullivan
8. Saltee Islands
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 147 reviews
Reviewed By 205kieranr - Bray, Ireland
A definite must for anyone visiting the area. Although we were too late in the season to see the puffins we were directed to the spectacular Gannett colony a 40+ minute walk from the landing. The 40 minute is dependant on how much time you want to spend looking at some awe inspiring sea views. We had a pleasant trip with Declan and his first mate Cian (good luck with your results!) You will get your feet wet at landing where we were watched by some curious seals. Bring good footwear and mind your footing as the pathway has holes and can be slippery in some areas. Bring some supplies too - water, light food and appropriate clothing for wilderness walking in Ireland. We'll definitely be back again in Puffin season.
9. Long Island
