Schull Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Schull, Ireland. Read on for a complete guide to this charming town in Southwest Ireland.


Introduction to Schull

Located in Southwest Ireland, Schull is a picturesque town situated in County Cork. With its charming streets and stunning coastal views, it’s no wonder that Schull is a popular destination for tourists.

Whether you’re interested in cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing and taking in the local scenery, Schull has something to offer. Read on for a comprehensive tour guide to this charming Irish town.

List of Places to Visit in Schull

When visiting Schull, there are plenty of places to explore. Here are some of the most popular attractions in the area.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Schull Planetarium: The Schull Planetarium is a unique attraction, offering visitors a chance to explore the mysteries of the universe.
  • Durrus History Trail: The Durrus History Trail is a self-guided walking tour that takes visitors through the history and culture of the area.
  • Barleycove Beach: This picturesque beach is perfect for a day of sunbathing and relaxation, with its sandy shores and crystal-clear waters.
  • Mizen Head Lighthouse: Located on the most southwestern point of Ireland, the Mizen Head Lighthouse offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Natural Attractions of Schull: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sheep’s Head Way: This walking trail offers stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding countryside.
  • Lough Hyne: Lough Hyne is a saltwater lake that is a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and other water-based activities.
  • Mount Gabriel: At 407 meters, Mount Gabriel is the highest peak in the area and offers breathtaking views of the local landscape.
  • Three Castle Head: This dramatic coastal landscape is a popular spot for hiking and exploring, with its rocky shores and stunning views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Schull

Schull is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a number of scenic hiking and biking trails in the area. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Ballydehob to Barleycove: This 16km walk takes visitors along the Sheep’s Head Way and offers stunning views of the coastline.
  • Cape Clear Island: This scenic island offers a number of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for birdwatching and whale watching.
  • Mizen Head Coastal Walk: This walk takes visitors along the beautiful coastline of the Mizen Peninsula, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Best Things to Do in Schull: Activities and Tours

From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to do in and around Schull. Here are some of the best activities and tours in the area:

  • Whale Watching Tours: With its coastal location, Schull is a great spot for whale watching. Book a tour to see these majestic creatures up close.
  • Garnish Island: This stunning island is home to beautiful gardens and a historic house, making it a popular spot for visitors.
  • Craft Workshops: Schull is home to a number of studios and workshops, offering visitors a chance to learn about traditional Irish crafts such as pottery and weaving.

Week-Long Itinerary for Schull

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Schull, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

  • Day 1: Explore the local history and culture by visiting the Schull Planetarium and taking the Durrus History Trail.
  • Day 2: Visit the stunning Barleycove Beach and spend the day relaxing by the water.
  • Day 3: Explore the local natural beauty by hiking along the Sheep’s Head Way.
  • Day 4: Take a whale watching tour and see these majestic creatures up close.
  • Day 5: Visit the beautiful gardens and historic house on Garnish Island.
  • Day 6: Take a craft workshop and learn about traditional Irish crafts such as pottery and weaving.
  • Day 7: End your trip with a hike along the Mizen Head Coastal Walk and take in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Food and Drink Scene of Schull

No trip to Schull is complete without trying the local food and drink. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish and Chips: Freshly caught fish is the star of this classic Irish dish.
  • Irish Stew: A hearty and warming dish made with lamb, potatoes, and vegetables.
  • Seafood Chowder: Made with locally caught fish and shellfish, this soup is a staple of the Irish diet.

Local Beverages

  • Irish Whiskey: Ireland is famous for its whiskey, and Schull is no exception. Try a local whiskey or visit a distillery to learn more about the process.
  • Cider: Made from local apples, Irish cider is a refreshing beverage that’s perfect for a warm day.
  • Guinness: No trip to Ireland is complete without trying a pint of the country’s famous stout beer.

Where to Stay in Schull: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Schull has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in the area:

  • The West Cork Hotel: This historic hotel is located in the heart of Schull and offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  • Campbell’s Guesthouse: This family-run guesthouse is located just outside Schull and offers comfortable rooms and a homely atmosphere.
  • Seaview House Hotel: This luxury hotel is located just a short drive from Schull and offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline.

What to Buy in Schull: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Schull is home to a number of shops and markets selling local products and souvenirs. Here are some of the best things to buy in Schull:

  • Arts and Crafts: Schull is home to a number of studios and workshops, offering visitors a chance to buy unique and handmade products.
  • Irish Whiskey and Cider: Stock up on local beverages to bring home with you.
  • Wool Products: Ireland is famous for its wool products, so be sure to pick up a cozy sweater or scarf before you leave.

Local Culture and Customs of Schull

Ireland has a rich cultural heritage, and Schull is no exception. Here are some of the local customs and traditions:

  • Gaelic language: Although English is the main language, many locals still speak Gaelic.
  • Traditional Music: Ireland is famous for its music, and Schull is no exception. Look out for local music sessions in pubs and bars.
  • Hospitality: Irish hospitality is famous around the world, and visitors to Schull can expect to be greeted with a warm welcome wherever they go.

Best Time to Visit Schull

The best time to visit Schull is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is warm and sunny. However, visitors who don’t mind cooler temperatures can enjoy the town’s natural beauty and cultural attractions year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Schull

When visiting Schull, there are some things to keep in mind. Here are some do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Try the local food and drink: Schull is home to some of the best food and drink in Ireland, so don’t be afraid to try something new.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions: Ireland has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Explore the local natural beauty: Schull is home to some of the most stunning scenery in Ireland, so be sure to get out and explore.

Don’t:

  • Forget to tip: Tipping is not expected in Ireland, but it is appreciated in restaurants and bars.
  • Be disrespectful to locals: Irish people are friendly and welcoming, but visitors should avoid being disrespectful or rude.
  • Underestimate the weather: Irish weather can be unpredictable, so visitors should be prepared for rain and cooler temperatures.

Safety and Health

When visiting Schull, visitors should be aware of any potential health and safety risks. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

Safety in Schull

  • Take caution when driving: Irish roads can be narrow and winding, so visitors should take care when driving in the area.
  • Be aware of potential hazards: Schull is home to many natural attractions, but visitors should be aware of potential hazards such as rocks, cliffs, and currents when swimming or hiking.

Health in Schull

  • Drink bottled water: While the tap water is safe to drink in Ireland, visitors may prefer to drink bottled water.
  • Take care in the sun: Ireland may not be known for its sunny weather, but visitors should still take care when spending time outdoors, wearing sunscreen and hats to protect themselves from the sun.

Getting to Schull: Transportation Options and Logistics

Schull is located in Southwest Ireland, and visitors have a number of transportation options to reach the town:

Airports Near Schull

  • Cork Airport: Located approximately 80 kilometers from Schull, Cork Airport is the closest airport to the town.

Bus Stations Near Schull

  • Cork: Buses run regularly between Cork and Schull, with a journey time of approximately two hours.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Visitors can rent a car at Cork Airport or in Cork city and drive to Schull.
  • Taxi: Taxis are available for hire in Cork and Schull, although they can be expensive.

How to Get Around in Schull

Schull is a small town, and visitors can easily explore the local area on foot. However, visitors who want to venture further afield may prefer to rent a car or take a taxi.

Where to Go Next from Schull: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Southwest Ireland, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Kinsale: This charming seaside town is located approximately 50 kilometers from Schull and is known for its restaurants and historic sites.
  • Beara Peninsula: This scenic peninsula is located to the north of Schull and is home to stunning landscape and charming towns.
  • Killarney National Park: Located approximately 120 kilometers from Schull, Killarney National Park is home to some of Ireland’s most beautiful scenery.

Conclusion

Schull is a charming Irish town, offering visitors the opportunity to explore local history, culture, and natural beauty. With its stunning coastline and scenic landscape, Schull is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, while its shops and restaurants offer visitors a chance to experience the best of Irish hospitality. Whether you’re interested in hiking, swimming, or simply relaxing and taking in the local scenery, Schull has something to offer visitors of all ages and interests.

Schull main street Schull main street The bridge to Mizen Head The bridge to Mizen Head Fastnet Fastnet