Nature spot · County Cork
Illnacullin - Garinish Island
Unlock your inner plant lover by visiting Garinish Island (Illnacullin) in West Cork.
Set in the sheltered harbour of Glengarriff in Bantry Bay, Garinish Island is home to a garden of rare plants which was established by Annan Bryce and Harold Peto, and was officially bequeathed to the Irish people in 1953. Due to its sheltered position and the warm elements from the Gulf Stream, the garden offers almost a subtropical climate that is perfect for plants from across the globe.
Browse the stunning colours of the rhododendrons and azaleas that blossom during May and June, or stop by from June to August to see the climbing plants and herbaceous perennials reach their full potential.
Buy your ticket to the island and take a seat on either a small ferry boat or a 60 seater water bus. It's worth noting that there is limited access for visitors with disabilities.
Outdoors in County Cork this week
Best day outdoors: Sat, 10 Oct — dry by day, breezy, up to 13°C
- Fri, 9 Oct14° / 8°Sun with light cloud
- Sat, 10 Oct13° / 7°Sun with light cloud
- Sun, 11 Oct15° / 14°Light rain
Make a day of it
The nearest trails, beaches, woods and heritage within 25 km.
Trails & walks
Beaches & bathing waters
Parks, gardens & islands
Nature spot · 1.8 km awayGlengarriff Bamboo ParkGardenGlengarriff Bamboo Park is an exotic garden of the South West, with 30 different varieties of bamboo combined with palm trees and other tropical plants. The park sits overlooking Glengarriff Harbour in County Cork.
Nature spot · 2.6 km awayGlengarriff Woods Nature ReserveParkGlengarriffGlengarriff Woods are situated in a deep rough glacial valley which opens out into the north side of Bantry Bay near Glengarriff village, County Cork. Above the woods rise the Caha Mountains, with their dramatic layers of sheer rock.
Nature spot · 5.6 km awayFaoideWhiddy IslandIslandWhiddy IslandGet lost in the incredible floral haven that calls Whiddy Island in County Cork home.