Welcome to Schull
In welcoming you to Schull we very much hope you will enjoy your visit. You’ll be well and truly spoiled for choice when you visit Schull! Areas of outstanding beauty along with local interest and a rich history will have you totally captivated. Summertime in West Cork offers many diversions for your holiday entertainment and enjoyment. Avail of the many water sport activities including sailing, kayaking, power boating, and scuba diving. The waters off our picturesque coastline are filled with marine wildlife throughout the summertime.
Angling
The Schull Sea Angling Club holds regular competitions which are open to all visitors; you should check locally for exact dates. If a private outing is your choice, then check the adverts and pick a boat for the day with your family and friends.
Beaches
Every child is dying to spend a day with his toes buried in the sand, and Barleycove is just the place! Waiting invitingly with its golden sand and stretching surf, Barleycove is absolutely a must. Nationally known as one of the most picturesque strands in Ireland, as the rolling sand-dunes collide with rugged cliffs, children will find warm rivers meandering from the warm sandy dunes into the waiting sea. A perfect day out. If a quick swim on shallow, sandy beaches are what you’re looking for, then Ballyrisode is just for you. But, make sure you leave early as parking is limited and sometimes difficult.
Sailing
If sailing is your chosen adventure, novice or just for a tune-up, the Fastnet Marine Outdoor Education Centre offers ‘5 day sailing courses’ throughout the summer.
Many sailing events are hosted by Schull throughout the summer: Calves Week (4 days of competitive yacht sailing), the Fastnet International Schools’ Regatta, the Munster Laser Championships, European Junior 420 Championship Trials and camp and the Junior Helm Championships for the younger sailors.
Ferries
Ferries are available for tours around the islands, or for those wishing to spend a day on Cape Clear, Sherkin and even over to Baltimore, a ferry will deliver you and shuttle you back to Schull in the evening.
On-Shore Activities
On the land based side of things, there is a number of pony trekking facilities varying from riding on the local roads to venturing off towards the sunset across the open countryside. Bicycles can be hired for a closer and more intimate look at the sights that flash past, usually seen by the motorists, at a pace to suit yourselves.
There are plenty of walks and golf for those who enjoy a walk with a purpose. There are tennis courts, a squash court (at Schull Community College), a planetarium, a library and a children’s playground.
Country Market
Sunday is also the day for the ever-popular Schull Country Market, running from Easter to Christmas you’ll find the finest of local produce, crafts and lots more besides.
Garden Trail
Garden enthusiasts should look for the ‘West Cork Garden Trail’ brochure with details about area gardens which are available to the public. Further afield, you could visit the Mizen Head Visitors Centre , at the outstretched tip of the Mizen finger with its famous suspension bridge. Enjoy your tour of the lighthouse.
Arts & Crafts
Those interested in arts and crafts should stop at one of the craft centres locally and take advantage of the talents of the many excellent craftspeople in the area of West Cork. Courses are held in many local studios and galleries and give children and adults the rare opportunity to exploit their own talents and take home a treasured piece of jewellery, sculpture, pottery, or just a decorative object which only you can appreciate and cherish.
And of course, a fine selection of pubs and an ever increasing variety of restaurants are waiting to cater for you after a long day’s excursion. Could there possibly be a better way to prepare for tomorrow?