Glengariff tours

Things to do in Glengariff

Welcome to Glengariff, where the gentle whispers of ancient forests and the soft rhythm of waves become the soundtrack of your day. Positioned along the Wild Atlantic Way, this village offers more than just breathtaking views. With a local guide, your exploration of Glengariff becomes an immersive experience. Whether you're taking in the sweeping vistas of Bantry Bay or the lush expanse of the Glengariff Nature Reserve, it’s about feeling the place, not just seeing it. A private tour here turns sightseeing into something much more personal. Walk through the vibrant landscapes or taste the essence of Ireland on a food and wine tour that leaves a lasting impression. Your guide ensures there’s no waiting in line, allowing you to delve directly into the heart and soul of Glengariff, where each story, path, and flavour becomes your own. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Glengariff. Explore Glengariff your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Glengariff tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Glengariff for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Hike with your guide in Glengarriff Nature Reserve to Lady Bantry’s Lookout, then wander the Blue Pool trails to spot herons and cormorants. Take a small boat from the pier to Garnish Island for garden walks and seal watching around the harbour. History tours: Explore the Napoleonic-era Martello Tower on Garnish Island and hear how it once guarded Bantry Bay. Add a Beara Peninsula loop to see Dunboy Castle’s ruins and the Allihies Copper Mine Museum, with stories of miners, clan battles, and coastal defence. Getting around: The village centre is walkable, and you can reach the nature reserve and boat piers on foot, but public transit is limited and sights are spread out. If you want to go farther, ask your local guide about tours with private transportation or a chauffeured vehicle. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Glengariff inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Embarking on a private walking tour in Glengariff offers a unique way to explore this charming destination, and with a local guide, you’ll uncover its hidden gems. As you plan your itinerary, consider visiting some of these popular neighborhoods and let your guide show you the heart of the area. - Gougane Barra: This serene neighborhood is perfect for families and those seeking tranquility. With its beautiful lakes and lush forests, it’s an ideal spot for leisurely strolls and picnics. - Bantry: Known for its vibrant markets and lively atmosphere, Bantry caters to cultural tourists and visitors interested in local crafts and food. Enjoy the lively exchange at the market and savor some local delicacies. - Adrigole: Nestled along the scenic Beara Peninsula, Adrigole is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers. With breathtaking coastal views and hiking trails, it’s a perfect location for outdoor exploration. Day trip ideas from Glengariff From Glengarriff, you can branch out to island gardens, wild peninsulas, and lively market towns close by, so day trips fit neatly around your pace and interests. Garnish Island (Ilnacullin) — Ride across the harbour to stroll subtropical gardens, climb the old Martello Tower for views over Bantry Bay, and watch the seal colony on the way. Garden fans, photographers, and families get a good mix of calm paths and big scenery, and this pairs well with short coastal walks back in the village. Beara Peninsula and Healy Pass — Cross the switchbacks of Healy Pass for mountain and sea views, then wander Eyeries or Allihies for colour‑washed streets, craft studios, and copper mining history. If you like short hikes, stone circles, and quiet coves, this route lets you mix stops without rushing. Killarney National Park via Kenmare — Follow the Caha Pass to Kenmare for cafés and local shops, then loop into the park for lakes, Torc Waterfall, and red deer in open meadows. It suits hikers, photographers, and anyone who wants classic Kerry scenery in a single day tour. Sheep’s Head Peninsula with Bantry — Start with Bantry’s market days or a harbour walk, then continue to Sheep’s Head for cliff‑edge trails, a lighthouse walk, and wide views across three peninsulas. Great for walkers and food lovers who enjoy simple, fresh stops along the way. Gougane Barra — Set in a steep valley with a tiny lakeside church and forest loop trails, this is a quiet spot for easy walks and scenic photos. History fans can visit the early monastic site, while nature lovers get calm woodland and waterfall views in one compact stop. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Glengariff most travellers miss.