Oileán Cléire (Cape Clear Island)

This wildly romantic island can not help but impress those who visit. Cape Clear, or Oileán Chléire, is a Gaeltacht island 13km off the coast of West Cork. It is Ireland’s southernmost inhabited island. Only 5km long and 2km wide, Cape Clear's remote isolation has created a unique and fiercely proud culture. Heather, gorse and wild flowers cover the rugged hills between dry stone walls. Megalithic standing stones, a 5,000-year-old passage grave, a 12th-century church ruin and a 14th-century castle are testament to the island's rich cultural heritage. Cape Clear's rugged scenery, sheltered harbours, cliffs, bogs and scenic pebble beaches all contribute to the island’s unspoilt charm. You'll be steeped in wildlife on the island: rare migratory birds, whales, sun fish and shark are spotted from the island every year, as well as the regular visitors, the dolphins. The abundance of flora and fauna makes for fabulous walking. The islanders of Cape Clear are a friendly bilingual community removed from the hustle and bustle of mainland life. Whether you come to Cape Clear to get close to nature, learn a bit of 'an Ghaeilge', taste some goats milk ice cream or enjoy the island's famous hospitality, Oileán Chléire offers relaxation, nature and peace.

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Cork