Bere Island is a unique island destination along the Wild Atlantic Way.
The Island lies at the entrance to the magnificent Bantry Bay and guards the deep water harbour of Berehaven, in West Cork, in the southwest of Ireland. The island is just 2km offshore from the town of Castletownbere, one of the largest fishing ports in Ireland. The Slieve Miskish and Caha Mountain ranges of the Beara Peninsula tower over the island providing a dramatic backdrop. The island is roughly 11km x 5km in size with a population of just under 200.
Our Bere Island Favourites
The Bere Island Parkrun
In 2021, Bere Island Parkrun was voted the wrold’s most scenic Parkrun location. This weekly 5km run takes place each Saturday morning at 9:30am throughout the year. The single loop run offers fantastic views out over Bantry Bay, and the Beara and Sheep’s Head peninsulas.
Contact: bereisland@parkrun.com
Take a Guided Tour of the Island’s Heritage Sites
Explore Bere Island and learn about its past on one of the guided Bere Island Heritage Bus Tours which alternate between the east and west ends of the island (Details to be announced for 2024 season)
Contact: Barry +353 (0)86 884 5709
Kayak Tours
Experience the Wild Atlantic Way from a different perspective - there’s no better way to explore the rocky inlets and hidden coves of Bere Island’s coastline than from the sea! Kayak the calm sheltered waters of Lawrence Cove to the rugged shorelines of Bantry Bay for a close-up view of the West Cork coast, with its breath-taking scenery and its wonderful birdlife and wildlife. A truly unique experience.
Details to be announced for the 2024 season.
Sailing & Kayaking
Learn to sail on the sheltered waters of Bantry Bay. Sailing weeks are held each summer for adults and children. (Details to be announced for 2024 season)
Contact: John +353 (0)27 75099