Southern Islands Mini-Break Guided Walking Holiday
The "magic" of Island life comes alive in this Walking Tour, covering the Southern Islands of West Cork and Roaring Water Bay. Island people have uniqueness and character which has to be experienced to be appreciated, but it’s the wealth of history, culture, wildlife, flora and fauna that makes this trip special…not to mention the stunning, wild and rugged scenery. The island people are waiting to welcome you, show you their heritage and share the history of these most beautiful Islands.
Day 1 Arrive to the little fishing village of Baltimore, looking out at the Fastnet Rock. Transfer by ferry at 17.40 hrs to Sherkin Island for our first night’s accommodation. Evening meal together and a general chat about the coming week’s walks. A short walk after dinner sets the tone for this holiday.
Meeting time at Baltimore Harbour is 17.00 hours.
Day 2 After breakfast we walk around the magnificent Sherkin Island. a treasure of nature. The birdlife of its historical shores attracts people from all over the world. Overnight and dinner on Sherkin.
Walk Details: Full day’s walking - 5 to 6 hours. Level walks. Open countyside. Boots essential.
Day 3 Today we transfer by ferry from Sherkin to Cape Clear, with a walkl on the northern shore, stunning views over to Schull and Mount Gabrial, not to mention the remains of the O’Driscoll Castle, now lasted by the seas. Overnight and Dinner on Cape
Walk Details: Half day’s walking - 4 hours. Slight hills. Open countryside. Boots essential.
Day 4 A full day’s walking on Cape Clear, where its vast depth of history, archaeology, culture, music and wildlife awaits us. Views West to Mizen Head and South to the Fastnet Rock make this day a memorable experience. Overnight and evening dinner on Cape Clear Island.
Walk Details: Full day’s walking. 5 to 6 hours. Level walks. Open countryside. Boots essential
Day 5 After breakfast we say “goodbye” to Island life and take a leisurely ferry trip through the islands of Roaring Water Bay, past Sherkin and Heir as we return back to the seaside village to Baltimore for our farewell and onward departure. Arrival in Baltimore at approx 1030hrs.
Public Bus service back to Cork City, Airport and Killarney. Excellent Taxi service available if required.
Should you wish us to arrange transfers to/from the Walk location, delighted to do so … please do ask at time of booking. Pre/Post tour extra nights available also. … again please do ask at time of booking.
Holiday Includes: 4 nights bed in room with private shower/ bathroom. Full Irish breakfast each morning. 4 Picnic lunches. 4 Evening Dinners, Expert Irish Walking Guide accompanies the group for the full holiday. Transport to/from each day’s walking locations. Luggage transfers when required. * Souvenir book ‘Ireland ---- a Travellers Guide’.
Not Included: Transfer from airport to first night’s accommodation, departure transfers, personal drinks, entrance fees to theatres, parks or museums etc. or gratuities.
Please make your own way to Baltimore Harbour, where your guide will meet you at 17.00 hrs. The short ferry transfer will be followed by check-in and dinner with the group at 19.00 hrs.
Please note that Ireland can be a bit ‘damp’ both underfoot and overhead, with some liquid sunshine! Irish weather is unpredictable and the nature of walks can change quickly and dramatically because of the weather. This is one of the many pleasant aspects of walking in Ireland. SouthWestWalks Ireland reserve the right to alter this itinerary due to weather conditions or the walking ability of each group.
Please refer to the accompanying “General Holiday Information” document to assist in your holiday preparation.
2008 Tours Dates: May 27 - 31
July 22 - 26
Aug 05 - 09
Sept 09 - 13
Difficulty of Walks: 1 Boot
