Why You Need to Visit Mizen Head — the Most Beautiful Peninsula in Ireland

Mizen Head might be one of the least known of southwest Ireland’s peninsulas.

But it may be the most stunning.

Most people have heard of the Iveragh Peninsula — better known as the Ring of Kerry.

And the Dingle Peninsula has become busier with each passing year as more people visit this stunning part of County Kerry.

However Mizen — the most southerly of the 5 peninsulas that extend out into the Atlantic Ocean — is not so famous.

In fact it may not be famous at all.

But I think it should be!

Let’s start by placing this beautiful destination on the map.

Where exactly is Mizen Head?

Mizen Head Peninsula is located in western County Cork.

As I mentioned above it is the most southerly of the peninsulas.

It’s not all that big coming in at the second smallest.

And I recently learned that it’s correctly known as Kilmore Peninsula. 

But because the tip of this piece of land is known as Mizen Head, the peninsula is now better known as Mizen Head Peninsula.

The Mizen Head drive

The drive starts around the village of Ballydehob and wends its way through Schull, out to Goleen and to the most southwesterly point in Ireland.

There are a few spurs you can take one of which is out to Crookhaven and Brow Head which features in the recent Star Wars trilogy.

Unfortunately I didn’t take this spur but I wish I had.

Next time!

The road is well posted for getting to Mizen Head so you won’t miss it.

And — being Ireland — the roads get smaller and smaller as you get out to the end.

It’s not a drive I’d make in bad weather.

But as long as it’s dry and not too windy, you’ll be fine.

The Mizen Head experience

When you reach the end of the road you’ll get to see Mizen Head up close and personal at the Mizen Head Experience.

For €7.50 you have access to all the trails that wind their way across bridges and to various lookout points.

It’s very well done, safe and really cool.

But it is a lot of walking and going up and down ramps and stairs.

So it won’t be for everyone.

There’s a wonderful sea arch to walk down to — and then back up.

And the bridge offers some canyon-like views to the northern cliffs.

Being out at the Mizen Head Signal Station is amazing.

There’s nothing beyond that but the Atlantic Ocean.

I love this!

But there’s more!

The drive itself offers some great spots to take in the stunning Irish landscape as well as some incredible ruins and sites.

The Altar Tomb just west of Schull is very cool if ancient sites are your thing.

And there are some beautiful views from there as well.

Barleycove Beach is a must.

It’s a stunning beach that you have to stop at and take a walk on.

The beaches in Ireland never cease to amaze me.

As I mentioned above, the detour to Crookhaven and Brow Head shouldn’t be missed.

And as you drive back toward Barleycove there’s a turn off that takes you to Three Castle Head which is basically the northern part of the Mizen Head peninsula.

My hostess swears she told me about this before I made my drive — but I don’t remember.

She probably did but I only caught part of what she told me.

I then found out from some other locals a few days after my drive about this.

It’s supposed to be incredible — 3 castle ruins and a lough right at the edge of the cliffs.

So I guess I’ll go back!

A few tips

Definitely make this drive in good weather — or good for Ireland weather.

Don’t miss Barleycove Beach.

Do make the side trips to both Brow Head and Three Castles Head.

Be sure to leave early so you can take your time and do this in daylight. Check sunrise and sunset times. Obviously spring, summer and early autumn (mostly September or early October) will be the most ideal times to have your Mizen Head experience.

Definitely pay the €7.50 to walk the paths out at the Mizen Head Signal Station. Worth every euro cent!!

Please note that Wander Your Way is only recommending international travel to those who are vaccinated and feel comfortable doing so. While travel to Europe is getting easier, we are still not out of the woods with COVID.

If you do decide to travel internationally, please do your research or use a travel planning service such as Wander Your Way. Please stay up to date using official sources like the WHO and CDC.

And if you are ready to go soon, please contact Lynne for any assistance you may need.

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