Garinish Island in Glengarriff is a hidden gem that offers a breath taking experience for nature lovers, stepping off the ferry, I was immediately struck by the enchanting beauty of the place. The island, also known as Ilnacullin, set on a small 15-hectares it is home to a variety of rare and exotic plants.
The gardens of Garinish Island are a testament to the creative partnership that existed over eighty years ago between Annan Bryce, a Belfast-born businessman, and Harold Peto, a celebrated garden designer. Together, they transformed the island into a cascade of rare and exotic plants, creating a garden that has become a must-visit destination for horticulturists and lovers of nature from all over the world.
There is little doubt their vision has left something very special for the world to enjoy from the vibrant colours of the flowers to the peacefulness of the surrounding waters. Garinish Island is a truly magical experience that transports you to a world of wonder and beauty.
Whether you are a nature lover, a horticulturist, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Garinish Island is a destination that should not be missed. So why not take a trip to this enchanting island and discover the beauty of Glengarriff for yourself?
Getting to Garinish Island
If you’re planning a visit to Garinish Island, there are several ways to get there, below i have listed the most practical in order of preference
By Car
If you’re driving to Garinish Island, head to Glengarriff and park in the designated car park. From there, it’s a short walk to the pier where you can catch a ferry to the island. The car park is located at the entrance to Glengarriff Woods Nature Reserve and costs €5 per day.
By Bus
If you’re travelling by bus, the nearest stop to Garinish Island is in Glengarriff village. From there, it’s a short walk to the pier where you can catch a ferry to the island. Buses run regularly from Bantry and Cork City to Glengarriff.
Taking The Ferry
The only way to get to Garinish Island is by boat. Ferries run regularly from the pier in Glengarriff village to the island. The journey takes around 10 to 15 minutes and offers stunning views of Bantry Bay and the round trip usually costs €15 for adults and €8 for children.
Just want to make a little note here for those who get a bit queasy when getting anywhere near a boat, the island itself is in the bay not far from shore, so no going out to sea or choppy waters its a very pleasant trip with the boat operator often slowing down for passenger’s to look at some of the wildlife on the way.
It’s worth noting that the ferry does not run during bad weather, so it’s best to check the forecast before you set off. Additionally, the island is only open to visitors from April to October, so plan your trip accordingly.
Once you arrive on the island, there are plenty of things to see and do. The island is home to beautiful gardens, rare plants, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Take a stroll around the gardens, enjoy a picnic on the grass, or simply soak up the peaceful atmosphere.
Overall, getting to Garinish Island is easy and well worth the effort. Whether you’re travelling by car, bus, or boat, the journey is part of the experience and offers a taste of the natural beauty that awaits you on the island.
Exploring Garinish Island
Garinish, is a small island located in Glengarriff Harbour in sheltered part of Bantry Bay on the Southwest of Ireland, renowned for its stunning gardens, which are laid out in beautiful walks and feature some rare specimen plants that thrive in the climate.
The Italian Garden
One of the highlights of Garinish Island is the Italian Garden, which is located at the highest point of the island. The garden was designed by Harold Peto in the early 20th century and features a stunning collection of Mediterranean plants, including cypress trees, lemon trees, and Italian cypresses. The garden also boasts a central fountain and a beautiful pergola.
The Martello Tower
Another interesting feature of Garinish Island is the Martello Tower, which was built in the early 19th century as part of a network of coastal defences to protect against a potential invasion by Napoleon. The tower has been restored and now houses an exhibition on the history of the island.
The Walled Garden
The Walled Garden is another must-see attraction on Garinish Island. This garden features a beautiful collection of plants, including camellias, azaleas, and rhododendrons. The garden is also home to a stunning water feature and a charming tea house.
The Temple of the Sun
The Temple of the Sun is a unique feature on Garinish Island. This circular temple was designed by Harold Peto and features a beautiful mosaic floor and a central statue of Apollo. The temple is surrounded by a stunning collection of plants, including magnolias, camellias, and Japanese maples.
The Bamboo Glade
Finally, the Bamboo Glade is another highlight of Garinish Island. This area features a stunning collection of bamboo plants, including some rare species. The glade also includes a beautiful pond and a charming bridge.
Exploring Garinish Island is a truly enchanting experience. The island’s stunning gardens and unique features make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in horticulture or simply looking for a peaceful and beautiful escape.
Wildlife on Garinish Island
As you may or may not know the Island is home to a variety of wildlife. From the smallest insects to the largest mammals, this island will definitely bring out wildlife enthusiasts you.
One of the most impressive animals I saw on the island was the grey seal. These beautiful creatures can be seen lounging on the rocks surrounding the island, basking in the sun. I was thrilled to see them up close, and I even got a chance to snap a few photos, I know I am so easily please.
In addition to seals, I was also lucky enough to spot a variety of birds during my visit. The island is home to a number of seabirds, including cormorants, guillemots, and razorbills. I loved watching them dive into the water to catch fish, their speed and agility was just breath taking.
Exploring the lush fragrant gardens on the island, I also spotted a number of beautiful butterflies and other insects. The gardens are designed to attract pollinators, which make it a haven for busy bees who buzzing around the flowers is somehow relaxing in itself.
Overall, the wildlife on Garinish Island was a highlight of my visit, although it really is hard to pick out just one thing since there really is so much to take in.
Tips for Visiting Garinish Island
As someone who has visited Garinish Island in Glengarriff, I have a few tips to help make your trip enjoyable and stress-free. Here are some things to keep in mind before you go.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Garinish Island is during the summer months when the weather is mild and the gardens are in full bloom. I recommend going in the morning to avoid the crowds and to have more time to explore the island. Keep in mind that the island is closed during the winter months, so plan your trip accordingly.
What to Bring
When visiting Garinish Island, be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and a jacket in case the weather changes. The island can be quite windy, so it’s important to dress in layers. Additionally, I suggest bringing a camera to capture the stunning views and beautiful gardens.
Food & Drink
There’s a small cafe on the Island serving light snacks and refreshments such as teas coffees and sandwiches etc.
Tickets and Fees
To visit Garinish Island, you will need to purchase a ticket from the Glengarriff Nature Reserve. The cost of the ticket does not include a ferry ride to the island. I recommend purchasing your ticket in advance to avoid long lines and ensure availability. Keep in mind that there are no ATMs on the island, so be sure to bring cash for any additional purchases.
Here is a breakdown of the fees:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult | €5.00 |
| Senior/Student | €3.00 |
| Child (5-15) | €3.00 |
| Family (2 adults, 2 children) | €13.00 |
Is Glengarriff worth visiting?
To be honest Garinish Island is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Glengarriff, not only is there so much to see and do, but its also a great place to relaxing and enjoy some of nature at its best.
Martina has been writing travel blogs since 2004, having spent all her life living in Ireland she has travelled the length and breath of the emerald Isle and still to this day finds some new to see and do.