Did you know that Mizen Head is Ireland’s most southern point?!
Being at the southernmost point of the country provides a feeling of standing at the edge of the world, with nothing but the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean stretching out before you.
Exploring this remote and scenic location allows visitors a unique way to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of Ireland’s coastline and delve into its rich maritime history.
From the breathtaking views of the cliffs and the wild crashing waves to the iconic Mizen Head lighthouse standing tall, there’s something truly captivating about this place.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, Mizen Head offers an experience that’s both scenic and educational, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring the Emerald Isle.
This article will offer all the information you will need for your visit here.
Where is Mizen Head Located?
Ok by know we know it is Ireland’s most southern point but where exactly is Mizen Head?
Mizen Head is situated near the village of Goleen, Count Cork, approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) west of the town of Schull, and it marks Ireland’s most southern point.
Tell Me About Mizen Head
Mizen Head holds importance as a navigational landmark, a symbol of Ireland’s maritime heritage.
One of the main attractions here is the iconic Mizen head lighthouse, which has been guiding ships through the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean since 1909.
Visitors can explore the lighthouse and its surrounding buildings, learning about the history of maritime navigation and the role of the brave lighthouse keepers who once manned this remote outpost, often in challenging conditions, to ensure the light remained operational.
In addition to the Mizen Head lighthouse, the surounding area offers breathtaking cliff walks that provide panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the crashing waves below.
These walks offer visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area while enjoying the fresh sea air and the sounds of seabirds.
Mizen Head is also home to an award-winning visitor center, which features interactive exhibits, displays on local wildlife and geology, and a café serving refreshments.
The visitor center provides a wealth of information about the history and ecology of the area, making it a perfect starting point for exploring Mizen Head and its surroundings.
Overall, Mizen Head is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a unique experience of the raw beauty of Ireland’s coastline.
Now that you have been convinced to visit this astonishing destination, let’s find out how you are going to get there.
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Getting to Mizen Head
To reach Mizen Head, you can follow these general directions:
By Car: Mizen Head is accessible by car, and driving is the most convenient way to reach the site.
If you’re traveling from Cork City, head towards Bantry, or for a more scenic route take the N71 south towards Skibbereen, and then follow signs for Schull to continue towards Goleen/Mizen Head. The journey is over 2 hours through scenic landscapes.
If you want an ultimate road trip, from Mizen Head to Malin Head, Irelands’ most Northern point is over 600 kilometres (370 Miles) and will take you 9 hours!
By Public Transportation: While there isn’t direct public transportation to Mizen Head, you can take a bus or train to nearby towns like Cork or Bantry and rent a car or use a taxi service to reach Mizen Head.
By Bicycle or Walking: If you’re feeling adventurous and enjoy cycling or hiking, you can explore the area around Mizen Head using the local roads and trails.
Keep in mind that the terrain can be hilly and challenging, but the scenic views along the way make it a rewarding journey.
Now that you know how to get to Mizen Head, let’s find out what there is to do.
To get the most out of your Ireland adventure, consider renting a car from Discover Cars below.
Discover Cars compares all rental websites and offers the best options based on your requirements.
While you are on a road trip, why not begin to tick some of Ireland’s Famous Landmarks off your bucket list and while in the county, we highly recommend visiting Cork’s Greatest Towns?!
What is There to Do in Mizen Head?
Mizen Head offers more than just its iconic lighthouse; it’s also known for its wildlife and stunning natural features.
Footbridge: The Mizen Head footbridge is one of the most thrilling attractions of the site.
This dramatic suspension bridge stretches across a gorge that separates the mainland from the rocky cliffs of the Mizen Peninsula.
Crossing the bridge provides visitors with breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the crashing waves below, creating an exhilarating experience that adds to the adventure of exploring Mizen Head.
Wildlife: Mizen Head is home to a colony of seals that inhabit the rocky shores and nearby islands.
Keep a look out to spot these playful creatures basking on the rocks or swimming in the surrounding waters.
Explore the Lighthouse: As mentioned above you can tour the lighthouse tower, learn about its history and significance, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding coastline from the top.
Take a Cliff Walk: Embark on one of the cliff walks along the rugged coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, dramatic cliffs, and diverse wildlife at Ireland’s most southern point.
It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Ireland and experience the power of the ocean first-hand.
Visit the Visitor Center: Explore the award-winning visitor center, which features interactive exhibits, displays on local wildlife and geology, and a café serving refreshments.
Birdwatching: Mizen Head is a haven for birdwatchers so make sure to keep an eye out for gannets, puffins, guillemots, and other seabirds soaring along the cliffs and nesting on the offshore islands.
Photography: Bring your camera or smartphone and capture the stunning coastal scenery, dramatic cliffs, and crashing waves.
Mizen Head offers endless opportunities for photography, whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just snapping pictures for your Instagram!
Important information about your Mizen Head Visit
- Opening times for Mizen information centre – Daily from 10am-6pm during the peak season June, July and August.
- Opening times vary depending on the time of year so please check the Mizen Head website for current updates.
- Buy your tickets at the Ticket Desk on arrival as there are no online tickets.
- Ticket fees: Adult 7.50 Euro, Child 4.50 Euro, and children under 5 are free.
- Dogs are welcome, but they must be kept on a lead at all times during your visit.
- You are advised to allow 2 hours for your visit.
- Lastly, there is limited access to paths after 3-30pm.
Things to Do in the Surrounding Area
Explore Nearby Towns: Take some time to explore nearby towns such as Goleen, Schull, and Skibbereen.
These charming coastal villages offer quaint shops, cafes, restaurants, and galleries, allowing you to experience the local culture and famous Irish hospitality.
Indulge in Irish Foods: Sample the delicious cuisine of West Cork by dining at local restaurants, seafood shacks, and farmers’ markets.
Treat yourself to a hearty meal by a cozy fireplace, and enjoy a pint of Cork’s famous Murphy’s Stout, just make sure you read all about Irish Pub Etiquette here first!
Scenic Drives: The surrounding area boasts some of Ireland’s most scenic drives along the Wild Atlantic Way, a coastal route that stretches along the west coast of Ireland, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged cliffs, and picturesque villages.
If you plan to continue on the Wild Atlantic Coastal Drive towards the Cliffs of Moher, make sure to check out our favourite town of Doolin.
Outdoor Adventures: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can partake in outdoor activities such as sea kayaking, surfing, or paddleboarding along the coastline.
Barley Cove: Barley Cove, one of our favourite places, offers a stunning sandy beach surrounded by picturesque landscapes, perfect for swimming, water sports, nature walks, and family-friendly outings.
Historical Sites: Explore the region’s rich history by visiting historical sites such as ancient stone circles, medieval castles, and prehistoric forts.
Nearby attractions include Ireland’s famous Drombeg Stone Circle.
Mizen Head Accommodation
Since Mizen Head is located in the remote area of Ireland’s most southern point, this means that unfortunately you are going to have to stay in accommodation that is a little bit further away.
Luckily the drive there is almost as beautiful as the destination itself, and you get to spend a night in one of Ireland’s most charming towns, so we think it’s a win win really!
The recommended Mizen Head accommodation were chosen based on value for money, guest reviews and location – offering three different but equally stunning Irish coastal towns.
Schull Harbour Hotel and Leisure Centre
Located at the eastern edge of Schull village in West Cork, Schull Harbour Hotel boasts stunning views of Schull Harbour.
Its modern leisure center features a 16-meter swimming pool, a fully equipped gym, sauna and steam room.
Rooms offer views of the harbor, equipped with amenities such as a flat-screen TV, toiletries, and tea/coffee facilities.
Most importantly, there is a fabulous breakfast included!
Enjoy mouth-watering dinner at the Bistro each evening, and relax in the Gracie Blue Bar offering a diverse bar menu along with live entertainment.
Berehaven Pods
Are you after something a bit different? Berehaven Pods are for you!
This unique accommodation, located in beautiful Castletownbere, features a private beach area, a garden and barbecue facilities.
This beachfront property offers access to a patio, free private parking and free WiFi.
The campground features 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchenette, and a terrace with sea views.
Guests can enjoy a meal on an outdoor dining area while overlooking the mountain views.
For those times when you’d rather not dine out, you can even choose to have groceries delivered.
Find Unique Ireland stays here.
Happy Irish Wanderers are huge fans of booking accommodations offering kitchen facilities, to cook our own meals in order to keep the spending costs down.
This enables us to continue to travel the world full time.
Read all about how we Travel Smart and keep costs down here.
Channel View Bed & Breakfast
Last but definitely not least, is Channel View B & B.
Perched overlooking a stunning bay along the tranquil southern coast, Channel View offers a peaceful retreat to your adventure-packed Ireland trip.
Conveniently located just a short stroll from the accommodation is the charming fishing village of Baltimore, where guests can explore a ruined castle overlooking the harbor and catch regular ferries to Cape Clear and Sherkin Islands.
Run by a warm and friendly family, this bed and breakfast features spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities like a television, hairdryer, tea/coffee-making facilities, and a private bathroom.
Each morning, guests are treated to a FREE delicious traditional Irish breakfast featuring homemade produce and locally sourced ingredients.
Plus, every room boasts breathtaking sea views.
Guests can relax in various areas including the landscaped garden, picnic spot, cozy lounge, and sunny conservatory.
For those in need of extra services, bike rentals and barber/beauty services are available upon request.
We don’t think it can get much better than this!
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Enjoy Mizen Head!
Mizen Head is truly a special place and if are looking to connect with our beautiful country on a deeper level then it doesn’t get more raw and pure than this Wild Ireland.
We can guarantee that you will love your visit to Ireland’s most southern point as much as we did.
In fact, why don’t you tell us all about it!
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