Overview
Carbery’s Hundred Isles (sometimes called Carbery’s One Hundred Isles) stretch across Roaringwater Bay and Long Island Bay on Ireland’s far‑south‑west coast. Although the poetic name suggests a hundred islands, the archipelago comprises roughly fifty landforms, ranging from inhabited islands such as Cape Clear, Sherkin, Heir and Long Island to countless rocky outcrops. The Gulf Stream gives the islands a mild climate, allowing patches of lush vegetation to thrive alongside stark, windswept cliffs and pebble beaches. The islands are a haven for birdwatchers, walkers, kayakers and anyone who loves dramatic Atlantic scenery.
History
The name “Carbery’s Hundred Isles” originates from Thomas Davis’s 1844 poem The Sack of Baltimore, which romanticised the landscape after the 1631 raid on the fishing village of Baltimore. The phrase entered popular usage despite the fact that the actual count is far lower. Historically the islands formed part of the medieval Barony of Carbery, a semi‑independent kingdom ruled by seafaring clans such as the O’Driscolls.
Key historic highlights include:
- Cape Clear – home to a 5,000‑year‑old passage grave, a 12th‑century church ruin and a 14th‑century castle. The island also hosts two Irish summer schools and an Irish Language Institute.
- Sherkin Island – the site of the O’Driscoll stronghold “Dún na Long” (Fort of the Ships) and the ruins of a 15th‑century Franciscan friary.
- Heir Island – once a clan stronghold, now known for its sailing school and the gourmet restaurant Island Cottage.
- Long Island – once a bustling copper‑mining community; today its eastern tip is marked by the historic Copper Point Beacon lighthouse, first lit in 1865.
These layers of pre‑historic, medieval and more recent history give the Hundred Isles a palpable sense of time, making each visit feel like a step back through centuries of Irish life.
What to See & Do
Cape Clear (Oileán Cléire)
- Cultural sites: explore the passage grave, church ruins and castle remains.
- Bird Observatory: a small centre where you can learn about the island’s resident seabirds.
- Outdoor activities: walking trails, kayaking, a goat farm and a heritage centre.
- Events: the Cape Clear Storytelling Festival (first week of September) and the annual O’Driscoll Clan gathering in June. More information at the island’s website capeclearisland.ie.
Sherkin Island (Inis Arcáin)
- Ruins: the 15th‑century Franciscan friary and the O’Driscoll castle “Dún na Long”.
- Natural highlights: Slievemore Hill for panoramic views, three sandy beaches, Horseshoe Harbour’s rugged cliffs and a natural lagoon.
- Lighthouse: the beacon overlooking Baltimore Harbour.
Heir Island (Inis Uí Drisceoil)
- Sailing school: the Irish Sailing Association training centre at Roaringwater Lodge.
- Beaches & Coves: seven sandy beaches, sea caves and creeks ideal for swimming, canoeing and diving.
- Gourmet dining: Island Cottage restaurant, which also runs weekend culinary workshops. Website: islandcottage.com.
Long Island (Inis Fada)
- Copper Point Beacon: a striking lighthouse guiding vessels into Schull Harbour since 1865.
- Walking: a 5 km long, narrow island offering tranquil coastal paths and historic mining remnants.
- Ferry access: a 5‑minute crossing from Colla Pier near Schull.
The Skeams, Goat Island, Calf Islands & Others
These smaller islands are primarily grazing lands but feature unspoiled beaches, old farm‑house ruins and, on the Skeams, an idyllic campsite (note: no fresh water). They are perfect for a quiet picnic or a brief wildlife spotting stop.
Practical Information
Getting There
| Departure Point | Destination Island | Approx. Crossing Time | Seasonal Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baltimore Harbour | Cape Clear (via Cape Clear Ferries) | 45 min | Year‑round service |
| Baltimore Harbour | Sherkin Island (local ferry) | 15 min | Year‑round |
| Schull (Mizen Peninsula) | Long Island (Colla Pier) | 5 min | Summer schedule, frequent departures |
| Baltimore | Heir Island | 20 min | Year‑round; also 5 min from Cunnamore Pier |
Ferry operators such as Cape Clear Ferries run regular tours that combine island‑hopping with wildlife spotting. The same vessels also stop at Fastnet Rock Lighthouse for photo opportunities.
Accommodation & Amenities
- Cape Clear offers a range of B&Bs, guesthouses and a small hotel, many of which provide meals featuring locally sourced seafood.
- Sherkin has several self‑catering cottages and a handful of pubs with accommodation.
- Heir Island provides lodging at the Roaringwater Lodge, attached to the sailing school.
- Long Island has a few holiday homes; most visitors stay on the mainland and use the island for day trips.
Fees & Access
All islands are free to land; there are no entry charges for the natural sites. Some attractions (e.g., the bird observatory on Cape Clear or guided heritage tours) may have modest fees, typically €5‑€10, but exact prices vary seasonally and are best confirmed on the individual island websites.
Websites & Further Reading
- General information on the Hundred Isles (official): baltimore.ie/islands
- Cape Clear Island official site: capeclearisland.ie
- Heir Island restaurant & workshops: islandcottage.com
- Cape Clear Storytelling Festival: capeclearstorytelling.com
Nearby Islands
For those looking to explore further, consider a short side‑trip to Adam Island, another small island in Roaringwater Bay that offers quiet beaches and excellent bird‑watching opportunities.
The Hundred Isles offer a micro‑cosm of West Cork’s natural beauty and cultural depth. Whether you’re tracing ancient stone circles, sampling fresh Atlantic seafood, or simply watching the waves lap against rugged cliffs, the archipelago promises an unforgettable Irish island experience.