Spike Island
About
Spike Island sits out in the middle of Cork Harbour, an 18th-century star fort that served as a monastery, a fortress and, for over a century, a prison, which is why it gets called Ireland's Alcatraz. The visit is a ferry out from Kennedy Pier in Cobh and about three and a half hours on the island, with a guided walk through the fortress and the prison blocks. It has been named Europe's leading tourist attraction at the World Travel Awards, and the ferry runs seven days a week from April to October and weekends in winter.
Photos
Highlights
- ✓Ferry out across Cork Harbour from Kennedy Pier
- ✓An 18th-century star fort and former prison island
- ✓Guided walk through the fortress and prison blocks
- ✓Named Europe's leading tourist attraction at the World Travel Awards
Tips
- →Book the ferry ahead in summer; sailings sell out
- →Seven-day sailings April to October, weekends only in winter
- →Allow three and a half hours for the round trip and tour
- →Bring layers and sturdy shoes; the island is exposed
Best Season
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