Surreal Old School Ireland
When you think of Ireland what comes to mind? Greenery, four-leaf clovers, and the accented whistling of a good ol’ Irish man?
Whatever that typical idea of Ireland further encompasses, supplement it with the still-green, misty-hilled, trundling pace, Gaelic-speaking island of Cape Clear, Ireland.
Some delightful views of the island. Image by E Laumenech
Cape Clear is of the Gaeltacht, which means being a part of where the Irish language or Gaeilge is spoken. It’s a place preserved in community language and the island predominantly speaks in Irish…! It’s a rarity to experience and an island that glows in something that’s gleaned from what Irish culture truly originated from.
Visitors can participate in language classes, and workshops, or even stay with local families to get the full experience of Gaeilge and the way of life on this island.
Dock where the ferry comes into
Cape Clear has a small population and its remote location contributes to a unique island lifestyle. The island is known for its enormousness of hospitality, so many friendly folks, and is undeniably welcoming in nature. Its streets sided by stone-walled farms and cottage walk-ups lead to low-lit pubs and a small town that reminisces of fairytale.
You can experience the simplicity and tranquility of island living there.
The island also encompasses a rich heritage and archeology thousands of years old. Its maritime and standing forts are sites to behold that give a glimpse of the life of its early inhabitants.
Getting There
Cape Clear is the southernmost island of Ireland. You must travel there by ferry, which is a nice excursion in itself. To get there, the ferry runs all year from Baltimore and Schull in Cork.
View arriving to the island by ferry
Image by Richard P J Lambert
The island expresses a classic old-school Ireland in the preserved rolling hills, old tree stumps, wooden signs, and goats’ meandering and bleating around the hills.
Pathways with stone fencing and overcast weather, a classic scene of the island. Image by Miklós Fekete
Where to Stay? Local Living
This island is the kind of off-the-beaten-track travel destination that is like a storybook excursion. It has zero commercial value, it’s like skipping out to a lived-in community that’s oh-so Irish beyond belief. For the quaintest of cottage options, check the local island site here or scope the local B&B.
*Safety tip
Prepare for heavy Irish accents and perhaps the need to ask locals to repeat themselves.
Additionally, Ireland always requires layers as rain vs. sunshine is a 24/7 ongoing freestyle battle.
Bottom line
For something of very real countryside charm, or an immersion in Gaelic language skills, take the ferry to this lovely island. You’ll be sure to find repose and fresh air for days. It’s kind of giving the Holiday but instead of Kate Winslet’s home being off of London, it’s off of Cork. It seems like there are fewer villages like this left, and while they’re here, they’re worth experiencing for preservation and celebration.
