Sherkin Island

Sherkin island off the coast of West Cork is just three miles long, one mile wide and has a unique beauty and variety of landscape, which is both tranquil and breathtaking. You can choose from Sherkin's sandy beaches – Trabawn, Cow Strand or the largest, Silver Strand. All are safe for bathing and ideal for children. Alternatively, take a stroll along quiet leafy lanes or explore the old lighthouse and the ruined Franciscan Abbey by the pier. Dating from 1460, it was destroyed in 1537 by angry seafarers from Waterford in retaliation for the seizure and speedy consumption of 100 tons of their wine by the local O'Driscoll clan. Dún na Long (the Fort of the Ships) is the ruined O'Driscoll castle just north of the pier, a perfect spot to appreciate the beauty of Baltimore Harbour.

Bed and breakfast accommodation is widely available on the island and meals can be enjoyed at both the local pubs. Here, as evening descends, you can try a taste of Sherkin's legendary nightlife with formal or informal music sessions during the summer months. Sherkin with its relaxed atmosphere is a favourite retreat for many of Ireland s best known musicians escaping the rigours of the mainland circuit. Local crafts including knitwear, silverwork, jewellery, wrought iron, candlesticks and decorative silk scarves are on sale at the Island Craft and Information Shop near Baltimore pier. There is a regular ferry service between Baltimore and Sherkin. The journey takes only a few minutes.

	Anna M Sailing Trips		Tel: 028 20598 / 087 9961557
	Sail Roaringwater Bay, the islands and round the Fastnet in a comfortable, licensed wooden schooner. View the wildlife with an experienced skipper.
	joe@gannetsway.com		www.gannetsway.com
	Horseshoe Cottage, Sherkin		Tel: 028 20598
	Fiona and Joe offer hospitality with good home-produced food at their peaceful cottage overlooking Horseshoe Bay. Holistic treatments. Sailing trips on schooner Anna M
	info@gannetsway.com		www.gannetsway.com