Highlight • Naturdenkmal
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Garnish Island, also known as Ilnacullin, is a world-renowned island garden and natural monument nestled in the sheltered waters of Glengarriff Bay, an inlet of Bantry Bay, off the scenic Beara Peninsula in County Cork, Ireland. Rising to an elevation of 73 meters, this horticultural masterpiece is celebrated for its unique microclimate, which allows a stunning array of exotic plants from around the globe to flourish, making it a distinctive highlight along the Wild Atlantic Way.
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24. Juni 2018
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Die beliebtesten Touren zu Gärten von Garnish Island (Ilnacullin)
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21
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6,14km
01:37
60m
60m
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9
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1,26km
00:20
10m
10m
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Höhenmeter 70 m
Wetter
Bereitgestellt von Foreca
Heute
Sonntag 8 März
12°C
7°C
56 %
Zusätzliche Wettertipps
Max. Windgeschwindigkeit: 28,0 km/h
Am häufigsten besucht während
Januar
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Garnish Island offers a leisurely walking experience through its meticulously cultivated gardens. The paths are generally gentle and suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it a family-friendly destination. While the island rises to an elevation of 73 meters, the walks are not strenuous. You can easily spend 30-45 minutes traversing the main areas, but many visitors choose to take more time to explore and enjoy the scenery.
While the Italian Garden is a highlight, Garnish Island boasts several other notable features. Don't miss the historic Martello Tower, built in 1805, which offers panoramic views of the gardens, Bantry Bay, and the Caha Mountains. The Grecian Temple provides beautiful vistas, and the Italian Casita is another charming architectural gem. The Walled Garden, with its clock tower and vibrant herbaceous borders, is also a must-see.
Garnish Island itself does not have parking, as it's an island accessible only by ferry. Visitors should park in Glengarriff village, near the pier from which the ferries depart. There are public car parks available in Glengarriff, and fees may apply depending on the specific car park and duration of your stay. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking can fill up quickly.
Ferries to Garnish Island depart regularly from Glengarriff Pier. The journey typically takes about 10-15 minutes. While specific schedules and prices can vary by operator and season, ferries generally run frequently during opening hours. It's recommended to check with local ferry providers in Glengarriff for the most up-to-date information on departure times and ticket costs before your visit.
Yes, Garnish Island is considered a family-friendly destination. The walks are gentle and suitable for all ages, including young children. The short ferry ride is often an exciting part of the adventure, with opportunities to spot seals. The diverse plant life and architectural features can also capture children's imaginations. However, be aware that the island is a garden, so children should be supervised to ensure they stay on paths and respect the plantings.
While the paths on Garnish Island are generally gentle, the terrain can be uneven in places, and there are some steps and inclines, particularly when accessing certain architectural features or viewpoints like the Martello Tower. Some areas may be accessible with a robust stroller or wheelchair, but full accessibility throughout the entire island might be challenging. It's best to contact the Office of Public Works (OPW) directly for detailed accessibility information before your visit.
Garnish Island offers beauty throughout its open season, but specific months highlight different flora. Spring (April-May) is ideal for seeing rhododendrons and azaleas in full bloom. Summer (June-August) showcases a vibrant palette of exotic plants and herbaceous borders. Autumn (September-October) brings rich colours to the foliage. The mild microclimate ensures something is always in bloom, but for the most dramatic floral displays, late spring to mid-summer is often recommended.
Garnish Island itself does not have extensive dining facilities. There is a small tearoom or kiosk that may offer light refreshments during peak season. For a full meal or a wider selection of cafes and restaurants, it is best to plan to eat in Glengarriff village before or after your visit to the island. Glengarriff offers various options to suit different tastes.
No, generally, dogs are not permitted on Garnish Island (Ilnacullin) Gardens, with the exception of assistance dogs. This policy is in place to protect the delicate plant collections and wildlife on the island. Visitors with pets should make arrangements for their care before taking the ferry to the island.
Beyond the main architectural gardens, keep an eye out for the island's unique flora thriving in its mild microclimate, including rare and tender plants from around the world. The surrounding waters are home to a colony of seals, often spotted basking on rocky outcrops during the ferry journey. The island's transformation from a barren rock to a horticultural paradise is a testament to human ingenuity, and exploring the less manicured areas can reveal glimpses of its rugged past.
Garnish Island was once a barren rock with a Martello Tower. In 1910, John Annan Bryce purchased the island and, with garden designer Harold Peto, began its transformation. Over a hundred men moved soil, blasted rocks, and planted trees from 1911-1914. Later, gardener Murdo Mackenzie established shelter belts, allowing exotic plants to thrive. The Bryce family continued its development, eventually bequeathing the island to the Irish people in 1953, with the Office of Public Works managing it since.