Mizen Head



Regarded as the most south-westerly point of Ireland, Mizen Head is famous for its jaw-dropping cliffs and provides one of the main highlights of a trip to County Cork.

The tip of Mizen Head is more or less an island, cut off by a deep chasm and spanned by a bridge giving access to an old signal station, weather station and lighthouse.

Once manned permanently, the signal station has been transformed into a museum highlighting the peninsula’s important strategic links to transatlantic shipping and communications, including the groundbreaking efforts of Italian inventor Guglielmo Marconi, known for his work on long-distance radio transmission.

The “99 steps” that made up part of the original access route have been improved with a series of paths and viewing platforms and there is a full range of facilities at the entrance to the site.

Once you have experienced the wild beauty of the peninsula, projecting out around copper-rich Mount Gabriel, you can head south to explore Ballydehob and Schull, a once-small fishing village turned into a buzzing little resort by the boating fraternity and arts community.

Whilst you’re on the peninsula check out Durrus, a well-known gourmet hotspot, the westerly outpost of Crookhaven and beautiful Bantry Bay, one of Ireland’s most attractive inlets.

Barleycove, West Cork’s finest beach, is rarely disturbed by big crowds and is a fabulous place for youngsters. Access to its golden sands and safe bathing waters is via a long boardwalk and pontoon that protect the surrounding wetlands.

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

2 Marconi House, Apartment

2 Marconi House, Apartment

Crookhaven
2 Marconi House, Apartment
Stunning large stone cottage on the Wild Atlantic Way with sea views and WI-FI

Stunning large stone cottage on the Wild Atlantic Way with sea views and WI-FI

Goleen
Stunning large stone cottage on the Wild Atlantic Way with sea views and WI-FI
The Chalet,  Schull

The Chalet, Schull

Schull
The Chalet, Schull
Rock Cottage Self Catering Cottage

Rock Cottage Self Catering Cottage

County
Rock Cottage Self Catering Cottage
Schull Harbour Hotel

Schull Harbour Hotel

4 out of 5
East End, Schull, Schull
Schull Harbour Hotel
Stunning cottage, overlooking Harbour

Stunning cottage, overlooking Harbour

Schull
Stunning cottage, overlooking Harbour
Luxury House on Seafront, with Pool, Sauna, Jacuzzi and Woodlands

Luxury House on Seafront, with Pool, Sauna, Jacuzzi and Woodlands

castletownbere
Luxury House on Seafront, with Pool, Sauna, Jacuzzi and Woodlands
Stunning Sea views 3 bed bungalow - 5 mins from beach!

Stunning Sea views 3 bed bungalow - 5 mins from beach!

Castletownbere
Stunning Sea views 3 bed bungalow - 5 mins from beach!
Mulroe Cove - Studio

Mulroe Cove - Studio

Dunbeacon
Mulroe Cove - Studio
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Mizen Head

Mizen Head offers a fantastic array of activities for adventure seekers, including exhilarating walking trails, birdwatching, and water sports like kayaking and diving. The stunning scenery is complemented by an amazing campsite, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Additional attractions such as the Mizen Head Signal Station provide insight into the area's maritime history, ensuring a memorable and engaging holiday experience.

Shopping

Mizen Head offers a charming shopping experience with local boutiques and craft shops. If you're up for a drive, visit Whyte Bookshop, located 20.9km away, where you can find a delightful selection of books and unique gifts to take home.

Recreation

At Gleninchaquin Park, immerse yourself in serene landscapes perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. The Glengarriff Golf Club offers a spirited outdoor experience with its beautiful fairways, while the Ring of Kerry Golf and Country Club combines sport with stunning scenery for a refreshing day out.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Dursey Island Cable Car, located 29.0km from Mizen Head, offering stunning views and an outdoor adventure vibe. For hiking enthusiasts, the Torc Mountain Walk, 38.6km away, and The Way the Fairies Went, 43.5km away, provide breathtaking scenery and a true sense of adventure.

Nightlife

Visit Schull Planetarium, situated 20.9km from Mizen Head, for an enchanting evening of stargazing and cosmic exploration. The venue offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for unwinding while enjoying informative shows and a hint of wonder in the night sky.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Mizen Head

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, a beach lover, or seeking stunning scenery, Mizen Head has something for everyone. Explore the charming castles, relax at beautiful beaches, and enjoy the picturesque harbour. With a variety of attractions and points of interest in and around Mizen Head, your visit promises to be a delightful experience filled with exploration and enjoyment.

  • Barleycove Beach: Located 3.2km from Mizen Head, Barleycove Beach offers a stunning stretch of golden sands and gentle waves. Perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a leisurely stroll, it embodies the quintessential beach vibes, making it an ideal spot for relaxation amidst picturesque surroundings.
  • Three Castles Head: This enchanting castle, situated 3.2km from Mizen Head, is steeped in romance and rich culture. With breathtaking views and a fascinating history, exploring the ruins provides a unique glimpse into Ireland's storied past, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
  • Mizen Vision: Just 644m from Mizen Head, Mizen Vision is a historic site that celebrates local culture. Its intriguing exhibitions and captivating stories allow visitors to immerse themselves in the heritage of the region, offering a deeper understanding of the area's significance.

Best time to go to Mizen Head

The best time to visit Mizen Head is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. February and March are its coolest month on average. At the time of March, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January48.0°F (8.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
February47.5°F (8.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
March47.5°F (8.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighSlightly High
July59.7°F (15.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighSlightly High
August60.1°F (15.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighSlightly High
September58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November51.6°F (10.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mizen Head

For an affordable visit to Mizen Head, consider travelling during the cheaper months of January to February and November. Booking accommodation about a month in advance can yield better rates, while last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia may offer savings. Saturdays are generally less expensive for stays, so aim for that day if possible. Utilise Expedia’s tools to filter by budget and eco-friendly options, and look for package deals that combine flights and activities to further cut costs. Don't forget to explore free local attractions and the public transport system for economical travel around the area.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Mizen Head are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Mizen Head is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Mizen Head is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Mizen Head is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can organise your search results by price, displaying the most affordable hotels at the top. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel category—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you’ll discover a range of sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save on costs by combining your hotel reservation at Mizen Head with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Explore a world of travel with Expedia