Glengarriff

Introducing Glengarriff

Hidden deep in the Bantry Bay area, Glengarriff (Gleann Garbh) is an attractive village with a happy holiday feel. Its weird microclimate stems from its sheltered position and the shallow sea, which in turn encourages exotic plant growth, best seen on Garinish Island and in Bamboo Park.

The rough, rocky Caha Mountains make for good hill walking. There are plenty of gentler strolls too, in mature oak woodlands and through the coastal Blue Pool Amenity Area where seals, perched on submerged rocks, appear to levitate on the water.

In the second half of the 19th century, Glengarriff became a popular retreat for prosperous Victorians, who sailed across from England, took the train to Bantry, then chugged over to Glengarriff in a paddle steamer. By 1850 the road to Kenmare had been blasted through the mountains and the link with Killarney was established. Today Glengarriff lies on the main Cork to Killarney road; despite drawing crowds, there’s still a satisfying back-country feel to the place.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009