Ireland’s third city after Dublin and Belfast , though Corkonians would say otherwise. The settlement began as a monastery , founded by St. Finbarr in the 7th century , on an Island in the swampy Lee estuary; its Irish name Corcaigh means ‘marsh’. It was raided...
This prosperous town is the largest settlement along the scenic Blackwater Valley. Up to a century ago it was renowned as a spa. A half-timbered Elizabethan Clock House and the ruins of the 16th century Mallow Castle are the main features of the town centre. Outside...
Although it is best noted for its tweed industry in the 18th century , Blarney has become best known for the Blarney Stone , set in the castle’s battlements 83ft above the ground. According to legend kissing the stone – and it is no easy...
This market town , which straddles the River Bandon , is a popular angling centre. It was established by the Earl of Cork , Richard Boyle , in 1608. Boyle , who arrived from England with only £20 , a diamond ring , a gold bracelet...
A lively West Cork town which has become the agricultural and industrial centre for the area. Skibbereen is home to a growing community of artists , craftworkers and writers , many from Continental Europe , who use the West Cork Arts Centre on Main St...
A bustling market town set in the picturesque Sullane River valley and is a must see on your tours of Ireland. A gateway is all that remains of Macroom Castle , built by the MacCarthys. In 1654 the castle and town were granted by Cromwell...
This most Westerly point of the Cork peninsulas is also called Bear Haven peninsula. It stretches for over 30 miles , separating Bantry Bay from the Kenmare River estuary , and is dominated by the Caha and Slieve Miskish mountains. The peninsula is linked to...
Baltimore is a small fishing port and a good sea-angling and sailing base , which serves as a port for ferries to Sherkin Island and Cape Clear. The remains of the castle , owned by the seafaring O’Driscoll clan , overlook the harbour. The village...
Just East of Cork City , the popular town is the popular town of Cobh , pronounced ‘cove’. This popular town is dominated by St. Colman’s Cathedral , designed by Pugin and Ashlin and built of blue Dalkey granite. The harbour’s deep-water anchorage was used as...
West of Cork City the bustling market town of Macroom is set in the picturesque Sullane River valley , a hidden gem that is a must see on your tours of Ireland. A gateway is all that remains of Macroom Castle , built by the...