7 Nights in Galley Head Lighthouse – A Wild Atlantic Way Adventure

Set along the rugged coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way, the Galley Head and Clonakilty area offers an idyllic mix of natural beauty, fascinating history, and warm Irish hospitality. From the iconic Galley Head Lighthouse watching over the sea to the vibrant streets of Clonakilty, with its colourful shopfronts and lively markets, every corner is a joy to explore.

Take in breathtaking cliffside views, enjoy fresh seafood at local spots, and embrace the relaxed atmosphere of coastal living. Whether you’re after outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or a peaceful retreat, this charming part of Ireland offers a truly unforgettable stay. Your visit to Galleyhead and Clonakilty with the Irish Landmark Trust promises to be a highlight of your trip.

With a thoughtfully planned 7-day itinerary, you can explore Clonakilty’s top attractions, savour the best local cuisine, and dive into outdoor adventures.

History of Galley Head Lighthouse

Galley Head Lighthouse has stood proudly on County Cork’s coastline since 1875, standing as a beacon to passing ships. Over the decades, it has safely guided countless vessels through the rough seas, becoming a symbol of strength and protection.

Now beautifully restored by the Irish Landmark Trust, this historic lighthouse offers a unique getaway for those looking to experience its charm and maritime history. Enjoy the stunning coastal views and step back in time with a stay at this remarkable piece of Irish heritage.

 

When is the best time to visit Galley Head?

Galley Head is a wonderful destination to visit any time of the year. The summer months are bustling in West Cork, offering a better chance of sunshine. In contrast, the winter months bring wilder weather, allowing you to experience the Lighthouse from a different perspective without the crowds. You can watch the storms rolling in over the coast from the warmth and comfort of your cosy accommodation.

 

The Ultimate 7-Day Galley Head Lighthouse Itinerary

 

Day 1: Sea Swim & Sauna

After checking into the Lighthouse, take a moment to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. When you’re ready for some adventure, head down to Red Strand for a refreshing dip in the Atlantic, followed by a rejuvenating beachside sauna. Be sure to check West Cork Sauna availability before your visit!

 This first day offers the perfect mix of relaxation and coastal excitement to kick off your stay.

 

Day 2: Discover Clonakilty

Explore Clonakilty, a town celebrated for its vibrant food scene and renowned for more than just its famous black pudding. Every Friday, the local market is a great place to sample organic produce, while the town’s restaurants offer dishes made from high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, including seafood, grass-fed meats, and wild-foraged delights. Clonakilty’s charm extends beyond food, with its inviting streets, lively pubs, and thriving music scene.

Here are a few places to visit in Clonakilty:

  • The West Cork Model Railway Village: Ireland’s only model village, where you’ll find a fully scaled, handmade model of the historic West Cork Railway Line, complete with working trains and towns from the 1940s.
  • Michael Collins Heritage Centre and Michael Collins House: Learn about the life and legacy of Michael Collins, one of Ireland’s most significant historical figures, who was born in Clonakilty and died during the Civil War at Béal na mBláth.
  • Clonakilty Distillery: Enjoy a multi-sensory tour to discover the process of crafting whiskey, gin, and vodka, ending with a tasting in the speakeasy bar. Be sure to prebook your tour for this popular experience. Visit their website for more details.

Additionally, don’t miss the Clonakilty Black Pudding Visitor Centre, where you can get an insider look at how Clonakilty Black Pudding is made today and sample their famous products. For more information, visit the Clonakilty Visitor Centre.

 

Day 3: Beach Day

Galley Head Lighthouse is perfectly placed between two stunning beach options: Red Strand and Long Strand. Long Strand, stretching a mile and a half, is a popular spot for surfers with its sandy shores and dunes. Red Strand is family-friendly, with plenty of rock pools to explore. On select days, the West Cork Sauna sets up on Red Strand for a unique beachside experience.

A short drive away is the beautiful Inchydoney Beach, where you’ll find Inchydoney Surf School, offering lessons for those keen to hit the waves. It’s a perfect day of sun, sand, and adventure in County Cork.

 

Day 4: Wild Atlantic Way – Galley Head to Kinsale

The Cork section of the Wild Atlantic Way covers about 131 km and takes around 2 hours and 56 minutes to drive. Staying at Galley Head gives you the perfect opportunity to divide the journey into two enjoyable day trips.

Start by heading to Kinsale, Ireland’s gourmet capital. Wander through the vibrant streets dotted with galleries, boutiques, and cafés. Don’t miss Charles Fort, a 17th-century star-shaped fort that offers breathtaking views of the harbour.

For lunch, enjoy a seafood feast at Fishy Fishy, a popular local restaurant known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Another great option is a Kinsale Food Tour led by Suzanne Burns, who will guide you through the best local food spots, from seafood to sweet treats. Choose from a walking tour, a picnic and foraging tour, or the luxe private yacht picnic charter, where you can enjoy a gourmet picnic while sailing around Kinsale Harbour with Sovereign Sailing.

For a fine dining experience, Bastion, Kinsale’s Michelin-starred restaurant, is worth a visit. There’s plenty to do in Kinsale, whether you prefer indulging in the local cuisine, playing golf, taking a harbour cruise, surfing, or exploring galleries. For a complete list of activities, visit Discover Ireland’s Kinsale guide.

 

Day 5: Clonakilty to Baltimore and Sherkin Island

The drive from Galley Head to Baltimore offers stunning views of the coastline, with plenty of scenic spots to stop and take in the landscape. It’s a relaxed and enjoyable drive, perfect for making the most of the picturesque surroundings.

Once in Baltimore, you’ll find a great selection of restaurants to choose from. Casey’s and Glebe Gardens are popular options, serving hearty meals in a cosy setting. Alternatively, try the Anglers Inn or La Jolie Brise for a delicious lunch with a local touch.

After enjoying your meal, take the ferry to Sherkin Island, which is just a short ride away. Once on the island, you can explore its peaceful atmosphere, wandering through the 15th-century Franciscan Friary ruins or relaxing on one of the beautiful beaches. Sherkin Island is also home to a vibrant arts community. Visit the Sherkin Island Development Society to discover the work of local artisans. For more information, visit Sherkin Island.

 

Day 6: Surfing and Spa at Inchydoney

Inchydoney Beach, just 15 minutes from Galley Head Lighthouse, is a popular spot for surfers of all levels. Whether you’re a skilled surfer or a beginner, the beach offers great conditions to enjoy the waves. The Inchydoney Surf School has everything you need for a successful surf session, including wetsuits, surfboards, boots, hoods, and gloves. For more information, visit Inchydoney Surf School.

After a morning of surfing, unwind at the Inchydoney Spa. The spa offers day retreat packages, and you can even add a relaxing afternoon tea to your experience. It’s the perfect way to spend your afternoon enjoying both adventure and relaxation. For more details, visit Inchydoney Spa Day Programmes.

Day 7: Relaxation and Departure

On your last day, take time to unwind at the lighthouse and spend some time spotting whales and dolphins in the waters nearby. After enjoying the serene beauty of Galley Head, bid farewell and start planning your next adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way. Whether it’s exploring more of Ireland’s breathtaking coastline or discovering hidden gems inland, the journey continues with endless possibilities.

 

Galley Head Lighthouse House Manager Tips

There are plenty of great places to eat and buy high-quality artisan produce locally. Here are some of the best options:

  • M. J. O’Neill Artisan Butcher in Clonakilty is a third-generation butcher who knows all about the history of the Lighthouse. Years ago, the O’Neills would come out to the lighthouse to butcher meat for the keepers. Today, they provide local meat, eggs, and seasonings for a farm-to-fork experience. For more information, visit M. J. O’Neill Butchers.
  • Organico in Bantry is perfect for zero-waste shopping. Check them out at Organico.
  • Pike Deli in Clonakilty offers delicious food that is ideal for a picnic.
  • Antiquity, a vegan café and vintage bookshop in Skibbereen, is a must-visit. Learn more at Antiquity.
  • Book a West Cork Farm Tour to meet innovative farmers and creative food producers. For more information, visit Discover Ireland – West Cork Farm Tours.

Additionally, there are several excellent markets in the local area:

There are a few other experiences in West Cork that shouldn’t be missed. Here are our insider suggestions: 

  • Clonakilty Distillery, where they produce Galley Head Lighthouse Whiskey. Take the tour and purchase a bottle as a souvenir of your holiday. For craft beer enthusiasts, visit [West Cork Craft Beer and West Cork Distillery in Skibbereen.
  • Be sure to explore the West Cork Garden Trail, where you’ll find beautiful gardens and plenty of delicious cake. For more information, visit West Cork Garden Trail.
  • Enjoy traditional music sessions at Fishers Cross Bar on Thursday nights, located just 3 km from Galley Head.

For more information on activities and shopping, visit Explore West Cork.

For crafts, check out West Cork Crafts in Skibbereen at West Cork Crafts, and in Clonakilty, you have The Green Dot Crafts and Spiller Lane Craft – Spiller Lane Craft.

For a list of events and festivals in West Cork throughout the year, visit West Cork Community Events.

 

Stay at Galley Head Lighthouse with Irish Landmark Trust 

Keep in mind that Irish Landmark Trust holidays become an even better value the longer you stay. With so much to see and do in the area, consider booking a few extra nights to fully enjoy your visit to Galley Head and West Cork on the Wild Atlantic Way. 

Please note that these suggestions are intended to help you plan your trip and are based on information available as of Winter 2025. Always check individual websites for the most up-to-date opening times and booking details before finalising your itinerary. Enjoy your stay and make the most of your time in this beautiful part of Ireland!

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Booking Conditions

HOW TO BOOK AN IRISH LANDMARK HOLIDAY : 

It is possible to reserve dates online at www.irishlandmark.com but bookings are not confirmed until a confirmation email is received from the bookings desk.     

BOOKING:  

Your booking must be for holiday purposes only.  Irish Landmark reserve the right to refuse hire for purposes other than holiday accommodation. When you make a booking, you accept full responsibility for all persons who will use or visit the property during the period booked.  When you book, you agree to indemnify us against all loss and damage arising directly or indirectly to the property and its contents from any deliberate or negligent act or omission by yourself, or any person accompanying you. 

CONTRACT OF HIRE:  

The hiring contract shall be between the Hirer and Irish Landmark and made subject to these Booking Conditions . The Contract of Hire is not effective until Irish Landmark dispatches to the Hirer written confirmation of a booking. 

PRICE OF YOUR HOLIDAY:   

Irish Landmark reserves the right to increase or decrease the price of unsold holidays at any time. However, such amendments to price will not be applied to holidays already confirmed.   

V.A.T.:  

All prices quoted are based on current prices and rates of V.A.T. at the time of going to press. Irish Landmark is unable to absorb increases in Value Added Tax or any new forms of taxation which may be introduced. Any such increases will be charged as notified and will be payable. 

DEPOSIT AND BALANCE PAYMENTS:   

All bookings can be paid for in full at time of booking. All bookings made within 12 weeks of stay must be paid in full at time of booking. Bookings made more than 12 weeks in advance of stay require a 30% non-refundable deposit with the balance due 12 weeks before arrival.  Irish Landmark shall be entitled to treat any failure to pay by the due date as a cancellation of the booking and will notify the Hirer by email.  The maximum number of payments for a booking will be limited to two – the deposit and balance payment.   A separate payment may be due where an amendment has been made to the original booking.  

PAYMENT TYPES: 

Payments can be made by credit/debit card (Visa or Mastercard ONLY).    

Payments for properties in the Republic of Ireland are taken in Euros, payments for properties in Northern Ireland are taken in Great British Pounds. 

VOUCHERS:  

Please note that only one voucher can be used per booking.  Vouchers have a strict expiry date. 

CONFIRMATION OF BOOKING:    

Upon receipt of payment by our bookings office, you will receive a confirmation of your reservation.  All charges for the booking will be confirmed in this notification.  Once confirmation has been issued, the Hirer is responsible for the total advertised price of the property and any extras notified.   

AMENDMENTS TO BOOKINGS (excluding cancellations):    

Irish Landmark does not offer a transfer of dates option. A complete change of dates is treated as a cancellation 

CANCELLATION POLICY: We hope that you will not have to cancel your stay, or part of your reservation.  If for any reason this is unavoidable, cancellations must be notified by email to bookings@irishlandmark.com. In the event of cancellation (this includes a reduction in number of nights) your deposit is non-refundable and the following cancellation charges will apply:  

Date of Cancellation 

Cancellation Charge 

More than 12 weeks before start date 

The deposit of 30% 

84 – 28 days before start date 

50% of total rental 

Fewer than 28 days 

100% of total rental 

Irish Landmark does not operate a cancellation insurance scheme for any reason, including Covid-19, and strongly recommends that all guests take out full holiday insurance cover.    

PARTY SIZE AND COMPOSITION:  In no circumstances may more than the number of persons listed on the booking form occupy the property overnight.   Irish Landmark reserves the right to refuse admission if this condition is not observed. Bookings can only be made by adults and cannot be accepted from anyone under the age of 21.  Irish Landmark only allows guest stays where the lead guest is aged 21 years or over.   

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE:  

Upon receipt of final payment, you will receive Access Details and Important Information via email about your rental. This includes the contact information of the Local House Manager, directions to the property, arrival and departure time, etc. However, the specific arrival time must be agreed with the relevant local House Manager at least four days prior to holiday start date.  It is the responsibility of the Hirer to arrive at the property at the time agreed with the House Manager. Irish Landmark reserves the right to levy an additional charge if the property is not vacated in accordance with these terms on the day of departure.  

DAY VISITORS:  

The number of day visitors will be limited to the capacity of the property – i.e., a 2-person property may have 2 day visitors, etc.   Prior written consent must be obtained from Irish Landmark Trust for additional numbers of day visitors. 

PERSONAL BELONGINGS: Baggage and personal belongings are always at the Hirers risk. No responsibility can be accepted for loss or damage to any car or its contents. 

POLICY REGARDING DOGS:   

Only certain Irish Landmark Trust properties accept a dog.  ALWAYS check this before you book.  Hirers who have made a reservation and are taking a dog will be required to read and agree to special terms, which details the conditions of bringing a dog to one of these properties.  Failure to comply with these conditions could result in the guest being asked to leave a property.  The rental cost is non-refundable in such cases.   

ELECTRIC VEHICLES: 

Irish Landmark respectfully request that you charge your electric vehicle at the nearest charging point and not at the property.  

HIRER’S RESPONSIBILITY:   

The Hirer is responsible for the property and is expected to take all reasonable care of it. Our House Managers work hard to maintain and clean the buildings and aim to ensure that the property is in a satisfactory condition for your enjoyment.  We ask that you leave the property in a clean and tidy condition upon departure, including all equipment, utensils etc. If the property is left in an unsatisfactory condition and additional cleaning costs are incurred, Irish Landmark reserves the right to recover these costs from the Hirer.   All breakages and damage must be reported to the House Manager immediately so that they can be rectified. All breakages and damage are the legal responsibility of the Hirer and the cost of repair or replacement must be paid to Irish Landmark upon demand.   If there are problems relating to the functioning of the building, please let the House Manager know immediately. Please note that candles are NOT permitted at any Irish Landmark property. Smoking is not allowed inside any Irish Landmark property. 

WEBSITE / LITERATURE:   

While every effort has been made to ensure that the representations stated on our website, or any printed literature, are made in good faith, neither they nor any oral representations made by employees or representatives of Irish Landmark Trust will create liability on the part of Irish Landmark. 

GENERAL:   

There shall be no liability for any claim arising from the act, omission or neglect or default of Irish Landmark Trust, its employees or representatives unless proved to be done with intent to cause damage or recklessly and with knowledge that loss or danger would probably result. Irish Landmark’s agents, servants and employees or other representatives have no authority to waive or modify these Conditions other than in writing. 

RIGHT OF ENTRY:   

On rare occasions Irish Landmark may need access to the property for essential maintenance work, should it be necessary, Irish Landmark will give you as much notice as is possible.   There is no need for you to stay in the property since our House Manager can accompany any such visits. 

COMPLAINTS:  

If you have any complaint during your holiday, please contact the House Manager.  If the matter is not dealt with to your satisfaction, please email bookings@irishlandmark.com outlining details of your complaint.   

IRISH LANDMARK’S RIGHTS:   

Irish Landmark reserves the right to refuse any booking and cancel any booking already made, if in its absolute discretion it considers this to be necessary. Where a booking is cancelled by Irish Landmark, every effort will be made to offer an alternative holiday at no increase in cost.  If the Hirer does not accept the alternative holiday offered, Irish Landmark will return to the Hirer the deposit paid and any other sum paid to Irish Landmark by the Hirer.  Liability for all consequential loss, damage and disappointments is accordingly limited to such return. 

SPECIAL CONDITIONS FOR SPECIFIC DOG – FRIENDLY PROPERTIES 

It is the hirer’s responsibility to ensure they book a specific dog-friendly property if they are bringing a dog.  There are specific terms and conditions that to which the hirer must adhere: 

We allow a dog, but only when they have been booked in and paid for. The “Taking a Dog” option must be selected at time of booking.  A charge will apply.  

Our policy is strictly ONE DOG. If you arrive at the property with more than one dog the House Manger is entitled to deny you access to the property.  If it becomes known during/after your stay that more than one dog is/was with you, you may be asked to vacate the property and a charge of €100/£100 per dog will apply. 

You must bring your own crate/bed in which your dog can sleep.  Please also bring bowls, towels, and waste bags for your dog. 

Your dog must be house-trained and kept under proper control.  Dogs are STRICTLY not permitted on beds, sofas, or any furniture.  There is no exception to this rule.  

Before departure, please thoroughly clean the property, paying particular attention to removing pet hair from rugs and soft furnishings.  A vacuum cleaner is available to you.   

If there is evidence that you have not cleaned up adequately after your stay, you will be charged a flat rate of €100/£100.   

You must double-check that the outside area around the property is free of any foul. Dog fouling inside the property is completely unacceptable.  Guests will be asked to vacate the premises immediately if this is discovered.  

Your dog must not be left unsupervised in the property.  We ask that you take your dog with you when you go out.  Please be mindful of any livestock nearby. 

 

By accepting a confirmation of a reservation from Irish Landmark the lead guest agrees: 

 

I have read and agree to be bound by the Booking Conditions. 

I agree to be held responsible for the balance of hire for the property due and payable in accordance with these terms. 

I understand that most Irish Landmark properties have no television or internet access; that some have no washing machines or dishwashers; and that many have limited mobile phone coverage. 

I understand that as the Lead Person, I am responsible, before their arrival, for informing all guests of Irish Landmark’s booking conditions, and for their observance of same. 

If I am bringing a pet or having day visitors, I have particularly noted the special conditions that apply in these situations 

 

Hirers making a reservation over the telephone are deemed to have read all Booking Conditions and agree to be bound by them.   

 

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Important Notes

1-night stays are not permitted.

Bank Holidays & Special Dates have a set minimum number of nights.

Deposits are strictly non-refundable & non-transferable.

Cancellation Fees will apply if you cancel your reservation.

Terms and Conditions apply to all bookings.

Special Offers and Discounts are not valid against existing bookings.

There are restrictions on arrival and departure dates over the Christmas and New Year periods.
Strictly no arrivals or departures on 24th, 25th and 31st of December.