Headland · Co. Cork
Mizen Head, traditionally Ireland's southernmost point, features a 52-metre bridge to Cloghane Island and its 1959 lighthouse. It marks the Wild Atlantic Way's end, 26 km west of Schull, with 2026 entry fees starting at €3.50.
Mizen Head, County Cork — photo by luckystudio
Carn Uí Néid is the Irish name for Mizen Head. It sits at the tip of the Mizen Peninsula in the Carbery district of County Cork. People usually call it the most southerly point of mainland Ireland. Brow Head, further east, is technically the actual southernmost point.
The headland serves as the southern terminus of the Wild Atlantic Way. It is one of the route’s fifteen signature discovery points. On a clear day, you can see the light on Fastnet Rock from the cliff top. That rock lies more than eighty kilometres to the south.
The main buildings sit on Cloghane Island, not the headland itself. A 52-metre arched bridge spans a deep rock cleft to reach the island. The first bridge was commissioned in 1907. The current ferro-concrete arch was built between 1908 and 1910.
The island station opened on 3 May 1909. It started as a fog signal station. This followed the wreck of the SS Trada in December 1908. The subsequent enquiry blamed the lack of a signal. Many visitors assume the lighthouse is Victorian. It is not. The light first showed on 1 October 1959. The station automated in March 1993, withdrawing its keepers.
Another first happened here. The first wireless beacon on the Irish coast was installed across the gorge in 1931.
The site is private property. It locks when closed. The Mizen Tourism Co-operative Society operates it. A visitor centre, café, and shop sit at the car park. An eCentre is located in Goleen village.
For the 2026 season, opening hours are daily from 10:30 to 5:00. There is a charge for the crossing. Adults pay €7.50. Seniors and students pay €5. Children pay €3.50. A family ticket costs €25 as last published. Dogs are welcome on a lead. Allow about two hours for the visit.
Where to stay
The peninsula is remote enough to feel like the end of the country — the right base is the one within the hour.
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