West Cork is a magical part of Ireland, famed for its scenery, unspoilt environment, historic attractions, off shore islands, quaint fishing villages and colourful Irish towns. Irish culture and tradition are at the forefront here and the people you’ll meet are warm and charming. All in all, West Cork is a place that will leave you wanting to return again and again. With so much on offer here, we have tried to pinpoint 5 things that make this wonderful part of Ireland so special. Read on to find out what they are…
The spectacular Beara Peninsula…
The Beara Peninsula can be found in the very south west corner of Ireland. The mountainous peninsula is bordered by Kenmare River on the north side and Bantry Bay on the southside and is famed for its spectacular scenery, desolate beauty and archaeological attractions. Visitors to the peninsula can opt to take the Ring of Beara Drive or else walk the Beara Waymarked Way. On your tour of the peninsula you can explore some astounding archaeological sights such as stone circles, wedge graves, ruined castles and copper mines from the Bronze Age. The Beara Peninsula is a really a world apart, a place that time has forgot – so if you want to get a glimpse of the unique culture, beauty, history and heritage of Ireland, a visit here is a must.
To learn more about the Beara Peninsula visit the Beara Tourism website
The Colourful West Cork towns…
The towns in west Cork are small and compact. All have quaint Irish pubs and shops where you’ll meet the warm and friendly local people. The towns started off as market towns due to the number of farmers and fishermen in the surrounding areas who would regularly come to the town to sell their produce. However, in recent times, the towns of west Cork have all become destinations in their own right, each one with its own unique character and charm.
Skibbereen is one of the most southerly towns in Ireland, Kinsale is famous for its star shaped fort and is also known as the gourmet capital of Ireland. Castletownbere is one of the most important fishing ports in Ireland, while Clonakility boasts Inchydoney Beach and of course its famous Black Pudding! Bantry overlooks the spectacular Bantry Bay and is home to Bantry House, while Dunmanway is surrounded by hills and lakes and is geographically located in the heart of West Cork making it a great base.
The Quality Food and Tourism Products…
West Cork is famous for its food, tourism and craft products so when here look out for the Fushia Brand. This is a symbol of quality in West Cork and you’ll find it attached to many businesses in the West Cork area. When you see the Fushia Logo you know that you’re getting service excellence and a traditional quality product.
Visit the Fushsia Brands website and find out what food, tourism and craft businesses in West Cork are currently approved to use the logo.
The endless outdoor activities…
West Cork is a paradise for outdoor activities. With its miles of beaches and coastline, it’s a top destination for water-activities. You can also enjoy walking in West Cork, mountain climbing, pony trekking, fishing and hiking so make sure to enjoy some outdoor activities and enhance your west Cork holiday experience.
The wide range of accommodation…
West Cork is now one of the Ireland’s most loved holiday destinations, so it’s no surprise that there is such a wide range of accommodation on offer. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel, a cosy B&B or maybe you’d prefer to spend a week here and enjoy the independence of a self catering rental, there is sure to be accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes here. Check out our West Cork accommodation page now.
Hope we have enticed you to visit this wonderful part of Ireland. If you’ve already been why not drop us a line in the comment box below and let us know what you got up to in West Cork. These are just 5 reasons to visit West Cork, feel free to leave more in the comment box below.
