Walk the Ardnakinna Lighthouse Loop
An 11 km, 4-5 hour loop from the West End ferry pier, waymarked with purple arrows along an old military track. Graded moderate to difficult, with varied terrain and some rough, rugged sections.
Ardnakinna Lighthouse(Teach Solais Ardnakinna)
4.8 (38)
About
A white lighthouse on the wild western tip of Bere Island, reached only by ferry and a rugged coastal loop trail, with sweeping views to the Sheep's Head and Mizen peninsulas.
Things to Do
The lighthouse
A 20 m white tower standing 62 m above the sea, established on 23 November 1965 after a trawler was lost nearby. It still shows two white and red flashes every ten seconds and is managed remotely by Irish Lights.
Views and a picnic
The route climbs the 248 m hill that forms the island's spine for 360 degree panoramic views over Bantry Bay and the Beara and Sheep's Head peninsulas. The ground around the lighthouse is a favourite picnic spot looking to the Mizen and west to Dursey Island.
Getting there by ferry
Bere Island has no bridge. Two car ferry services sail year-round, and Bere Island Ferries runs from Castletownbere to the West End slipway at Oilean na gCaorach, right at the start of the loop. Cars, bikes and foot passengers are all carried, first come first served; you cannot book ahead.
More island walking
Bere Island's paths form part of the 196 km Beara Way. The Rerrin Loop and the short Lonehort Heritage Trail explore the British-era battery, Martello towers and other military heritage at the island's east end.
Plan Your Visit
- Parking: No designated car park at the lighthouse or trailhead; walkers driving to the start of a looped walk are asked to park responsibly and not block gates or entrances. Cars, bikes and foot passengers can all cross on the car ferry.
- Food: On the island: The Lookout Restaurant & Bar on the pier at Derrycreeveen, 80 m from the West End ferry landing; Bere Island Bakehouse and O'Sullivans (Dessie's) Bar in Rerrin; The Hotel Bar & Restaurant at Ballinakilla.
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