Overview
Long Island (Irish: Inis Fada) lies in Roaringwater Bay, a short five‑minute ferry ride from the harbour town of Schull in West Cork. Stretching almost 5 km (3 mi) from east to west but barely a kilometre wide, the island lives up to its name – Inis Fada – “long island”. With a permanent population of around ten people, a surfaced road runs roughly half its length, while the remainder consists of rough tracks that lead to the historic White Tower lighthouse at the eastern tip and the remnants of an old copper mine on the western side. Shingle beaches, low‑lying fields reclaimed by wild flora, and a scattering of weather‑worn cottages create a sense of isolation that is perfect for a day‑long escape from mainland life.
History
In the early 19th century the island supported a modest copper‑mining community; the mine’s remnants are still visible as stone walls and earthworks. By the 1840s the island’s census recorded 305 residents, and the combined population of the Roaringwater Bay islands approached 5 000 before the Great Famine. Emigration was common – one notable son, Florence “Big” Driscoll (born 1837), left the island in the late 1850s, eventually settling in Kansas, USA, where his descendants became writers and historians of Irish‑American experience. The White Tower lighthouse, erected in 1865 at Copper Point, has guided mariners into Schull Harbour for more than a century and remains the island’s most recognisable landmark.
What to See & Do
| Activity | Highlights | Practical notes |
|---|---|---|
| Walk the island | A surfaced road covers the central spine; rough tracks lead to the White Tower lighthouse, the old copper mine, and the western cliffs. | The whole island can be explored on foot in a day; wear sturdy shoes for uneven ground. |
| Bird‑watching & wildlife spotting | Otters, seals, dolphins, occasional whales and even basking sharks are seen from the shoreline; the island is a haven for seabirds. | Early morning or late afternoon offers the best chances; bring binoculars. |
| Beach time | Shingle beaches on the south‑west side provide quiet spots for a swim or a picnic. | The water can be brisk; there are no lifeguard services. |
| Sea angling | Local operators provide gear and boats for a few‑hour fishing trip; fresh catch can be cooked on the spot. | Book through the same contact number listed for sailing trips. |
| Sailing & boat trips | Short pleasure cruises around Roaringwater Bay showcase the island’s coastline and neighboring isles such as Sherkin and Cape Clear. | Trips run year‑round; weather‑dependent. |
| Historical exploration | Visit the White Tower lighthouse, the copper‑mine ruins, and the scattered 19th‑century cottages that hint at the island’s once‑busy community. | No entry fee; the lighthouse is not open for interior tours but can be photographed from the outside. |
Highlights in Detail
- White Tower Lighthouse – Built in 1865, the white‑painted tower stands on the island’s eastern tip, marking the entrance to Schull Harbour. Its silhouette is a favourite subject for photographers, especially at sunset.
- Copper Mine Remains – The old mine shafts and stone walls lie on the eastern side of the central road. Interpretive signs added by local heritage groups explain the 1800s mining techniques.
- Wildlife – Otters are frequently seen darting between rocks, while seals haul out on the shingle beaches. Dolphin pods and, on rarer occasions, basking sharks have been recorded off the western coast during summer months.
- Walking Trails – The most popular route follows the surfaced road from the ferry jetty at Colla Pier, passes the lighthouse, loops past the mine, and returns via the rough western track that offers dramatic cliff views over Roaringwater Bay.
Practical Information
Getting there – Ferries depart daily from the Colla Pier near Schull (approximately 30 minutes from Bantry and 1 hour 50 minutes by road from Cork city). The crossing takes about five minutes; up‑to‑date timetables and ticket information are available at the official ferry site longislandferry.ie.
Transport on the island – Walking is the recommended mode of travel; the surfaced road is suitable for bicycles, but the rough western tracks are best tackled on foot.
Facilities – There are no shops, cafés or public toilets on Long Island. Visitors should bring water, food and any required supplies. Self‑catering accommodation is available in a few holiday cottages; bookings are best made in advance, especially during the summer months.
Opening hours – The island is open year‑round; the ferry runs on a regular schedule (check the timetable). The lighthouse can be viewed at any time, though interior access is not provided.
Accessibility & safety – The island’s terrain is uneven and includes steep cliffs; it is not wheelchair‑friendly. The Atlantic can be cold and sea conditions change quickly – swimmers should stay close to shore and heed local safety advice.
Nearby attractions – After a day on Long Island, consider exploring the neighbouring islands of Sherkin, Cape Clear, or the Calf Islands, all reachable by short boat trips. The town of Schull offers pubs, restaurants and a vibrant arts scene, making it a perfect base for a West Cork weekend.
Useful links
- Ferry timetable & tickets – longislandferry.ie
- West Cork tourism – Long Island page
- Walk of the Week – Long Island walk (Irish Examiner)
Enjoy the peace, the sea‑sprayed air and the sense of stepping back in time on Long Island – a tiny slice of Irish wilderness that feels worlds away, yet is only a short boat ride from the mainland.