Galley Head Lightkeepers' Houses are perched on dramatic cliffs at about 130 feet above sea level overlooking St George's Channel. The houses, in their elevated setting, make an ideal location for relaxing and getting away from it all. The views from every angle are awe-inspiring and breathtaking.
Galley Head lighthouse station is close to the award-winning village of Clonakilty. This vibrant market town is a must-see for tourists. Guests can enjoy a wide range of activities from dolphin and whale watching, surfing at Inchydoney Blue Flag Beach or a historical walking tour of Clonakilty. The houses are also within easy reach of Cork City and Airport. (40 km) History
The two keepers' houses at Galley Head, were taken on by Irish Landmark in the final years of the 20th century. Lightkeepers who lived here would have witnessed the tragic loss of the Lusitania in 1915 and sighted a German ship carrying arms, in disguise as Norwegian steam, pursued up the St. George's Channel by British destroyers a year later. It is also said that Ray Bradbury based his melancholy story "The Fog Horn" on a reported sighting of a sea serpent at Galley in 1860.
The station consists of a tower connected by a 38-metre corridor to the semi-detached, two-storey, dwelling, initially built for the principal and assistant keeper, a single-storey home for the gas maker. The two houses have been restored to their original symmetrical layout and make an ideal retreat for a family break.
The lighthouse cottages are in an 'Area of Special Interest', with Clonakilty Bay being home to a variety of rare and unusual birds. This is a superior vacation home by the sea, from where you can explore the outstanding beauty of West Cork, from the stunning Old Head peninsula to the gastronomic delights of Clonakilty.
"Our first visit to an Irish Landmark property but I daresay won’t be our last. In an era awash with mediocrity it’s refreshing to walk into a property so carefully and considerably restored. We loved our time here."
MairéadIreland
2019
"A most perfect place and space for resting the body and mind. Couldn’t think of anywhere finer to spend a week’s holidays."
Belinda McKeon, Irish Times Magazine
2018
And then suddenly it was white, as white as if a window had opened onto a blanket of snow. A belt of light crossed the landscape in a giant arc, washing brightness over the road... We saw her, Galley Head, her huge burning bulbs in the distance guiding us home."
David
July 2024
Great view. Comfortable, quiet.
Jean
July 2024
The location was amazing. Next door to the working lighthouse, the house had fantastic, far reaching views of glorious beaches and rugged headlands, with the inside being cosy and comfortable, and equipped with all mod-cons, except a TV and wi-fi, which we didn’t miss at all. The colourful, friendly town of Clonakilty is a short drive away, and we were spoilt for choice when it came to wonderful places to eat.
Ros
June 2024
The Galley Head Lighthouse is situated on a dramatic coastal cliff with panoramic views. The history and presentation of this historic and still functional facility is exceptional, but the addition of the opportunity to spend time with Gerald Butler, former keeper of this magnificent place, made it a standout experience for our time in Ireland. Gerald has a lifetime of experience and anecdotes, he is a natural raconteur, yet self deprecating and funny. The area is steeped in history, tranquil and beautiful. What more can I say? 15 out of 10????
Meg
June 2024
If you love sea, sky, surf and wind you will love this stay.
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