Mizen Head is the name of the tip of the Mizen Peninsula, approximately 125 km south of Cork city, in County Cork. Once considered the southernmost point of continental Irlande, this headland ranks among the county's most notable attractions. It is home to a lighthouse, accessible via an impressive suspension bridge, as well as a weather station.

History

Mizen Head is referred to as the "southern promontory" in Ptolemy's Geography (2nd century AD). Associated with Gaelic mythology, its Irish name is Carn Uí Néid, meaning "cairn of the grandson of Néid". Located near one of the most important transatlantic shipping routes, this promontory was for countless sailors either their first or last glimpse of Europe.

In 1847, the American packet ship SS Stephen Whitney wrecked off Mizen Head. Ninety-two people lost their lives. This tragedy led to the construction of the Fastnet Rock lighthouse in 1854. Another wreck, that of the SS Trada, occurred in the wild waters of the headland in 1908. The disaster was caused by the absence of a fog signal and violent winds. Subsequently, a fog signal was installed there.

The tip of Mizen Head forms a peninsula separated from the rest of the continent by a vertiginous chasm, spanned by a bridge. This structure was completed in 1910 and stands as one of the finest examples of Irlande's early reinforced concrete constructions.

Discovering Mizen Head

A visit to Mizen Head begins at its visitor centre. It chronicles the history of the headland and the lives of its lighthouse keepers. A recreation of a keeper's living quarters and a display showing his daily routine are presented here. At this information point, you'll also find extensive information about the two wrecks that occurred in the region.

After passing through the visitor centre, walk the path leading towards the cliffs. Remarkable in their own right, these escarpments are also what make the headland famous. Continue your journey to reach the Mizen Head bridge. Once on the structure, suspended 45 m above sea level, feel the gusts of wind that strike you. From here, you'll also enjoy beautiful views of the cliffs. Moreover, looking down below, you may spot seals and their pups, lounging on the rocks.

After crossing the bridge, you'll be greeted by the lighthouse. While it is not imposing, it represents the pinnacle of the visit for many tourists. Indeed, the Wild Atlantic Way can be contemplated from this tower. Furthermore, depending on the time of year, it's possible to observe a multitude of marine animals, such as fin whales, minke whales, and humpback whales.

Once you've finished visiting the lighthouse, you can grab a bite at the Mizen Café. The menu at this dining establishment features fish and chips, cakes, and pies.

Practical Information

Opening Hours and Admission Prices

During June, July, and August, Mizen Head's visitor centre is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. This schedule changes to 10:30 am to 5 pm during the period from September to May. From November to March, the centre is open only on weekends, from 11 am to 4 pm. Admission prices vary depending on age or whether you're visiting alone or in a group. They range from €4.50 to €25.

When to Visit?

From a climate perspective, the best seasons to discover Mizen Head are spring and summer. However, you can also visit it in early autumn. Whenever you visit, remember to dress appropriately. That is, with a sweater or light jacket. Also, don't venture too close to the edges.

Mizen Head is located approximately 53 minutes by car from Skibbereen town. Head southwest following the N71, then take the R592 road. The attraction is also accessible from Brantry. Follow the N71 and R591. You'll arrive at your destination after approximately 47 minutes of travel. The site's car park is spacious. You'll have no trouble parking once you arrive.