Barleycove Beach in County Cork, Ireland

Make a stop at the beach on your next trip to Ireland and visit the large, sandy, blue flag-rated Barleycove in County Cork. Backed by sand dunes, the colourful contrasting green and brown scenery around this beautiful beach makes for a picturesque destination. Reserve a car hire in Ireland to get around to this lovely beach.

The sand dunes around Barleycove were thrown up in the tidal wave that swept over Europe after the earthquake in Lisbon in 1755. Although the dunes are still impressive they are not nearly what they once were. Over time they have been partially eroded, but they are now protected like much of the coast around this area, as European designated Special Areas of Conservation.

Barleycove is located very close to the most southerly point of land in Ireland, Mizen Head. The cliffs of Mizen Head rise to an impressive 230 meters, and you can visit the old lighthouse there which has been opened to tourists. The nearby village of Crookhaven is very popular with sailing visitors.

Home to a peaceful surfing community, there are never any problems with overcrowding in Barleycove. Although there are no hazards here and few rocks, be aware that there is a rip current here which can be quite dangerous.

Save money on your beach vacation in County Cork when you book your cheap Ireland car rental for Barleycove online in advance.