One of Carbery’s Hundred Isles, in Roaring Water Bay, Sherkin is the ancestral home of the O’Driscoll clan whose castle lies just above the pier. Nearby, you can also roam the ruins of a 15th century Franciscan abbey.

Sherkin buzzes with activity during the summer months and locals are renowned for their warmth and hospitality. Come to hear great live traditional music or enjoy the activities of the Sherkin Family Regatta, a big splash in the island's social calendar.

Sherkin's three sandy beaches make great secluded swimming areas and walking along the shore you may see seals, otters, schools of dolphins or the porpoises which gave the island its name. A number of artists live on the island and Sherkin is unique in running a Fine Arts Degree Course.

Highlights

Celtic Music Festival (May); Sherkin family regatta (July); Old Franciscan Friary; ruins of O’Driscoll’s Castle.

Activities

Nature-trailing; sailing; live music; fishing; swimming.

Address

Fáilte Ireland Southwest Region

Áras Fáilte, Grand Parade

Cork

Cork

Republic Of Ireland

Telephone

+353 ((0)21) 4255100

Web

www.discoverireland.ie/southwest

Directions

 Located in Roaring Water Bay, Co. Cork, a 10 minute ferry journey from Baltimore (itself 13 km from Skibbereen)

Accommodation

 Hotel, guesthouse. Shop, restaurants, pubs. Taxi in summer.

Population

 Over 100.

Size

 Approx 4.8 km long & 2.4 km wide.

When to visit

Visitors welcome all year (hotel closed Jan & Feb), busiest time is June to September.