Cow Strand (Trá Eoin Mhór - literally Big John’s Beach) is located on the western side of Sherkin Island, about a 30-40 minute walk from the slipway on the east side of the island where the Baltimore ferry drops off passengers (€12 return).

There’s also a local mini bus (ask for the phone number aboard the ferry) or on warm summer days you’ll see him parked next to the slip as you approach.

If you choose to walk you’ll pass the ruins of the 15th century abbey and a whole host of charming island dwellings – some modern and occupied – some ancient and long abandoned.

Cow Strand is a beautiful beach with soft, white sand, crystal clear water and an unrivalled view of hilly Cape Clear island to the south. The strand is remote so there are no facilities here, but it’s still popular with day trippers and campers alike – the unique location is what makes it so popular.