This short guide will tell you all about Lough Hyne in West Cork! This saltwater lake is actually Ireland’s first Marine Nature Reserve, designated back in 1981. It’s tucked away in a lush valley, not too far from Skibereen and Baltimore, and is surrounded by beautiful rolling green hills. What makes this lake really worth…
The quickest route from Cork City to Kenmare takes you via the N22 past Macroom and Ballyvourney and will take just an hour and 20 minutes (96 km) without stops. But, actually, the route I recommend taking into Kenmare is a tad longer, but I promise it’s worth it as it takes you deep into…
West Cork is one of the most beautiful parts of Ireland, and when you visit, you’ll understand why it’s so popular with tourists. I live here now (in Bandon), and I’ve explored all of it, and below you can read about my absolute favorite parts of West Cork. If I had to use just one…
The drive from Shannon to Cork City will take just under two hours (around an hour and 50 minutes). This 128 km road follows the N18 and the N20, and given how much there is to see along this relatively short drive, I recommend allowing at least a full day to do it. Or if…
If you’re on a tight budget but still want to enjoy a fantastic vacation in Cork, your search ends here with my comprehensive list of 21 of the best free activities to enjoy in Cork County. From some of Ireland’s finest forest parks to breathtaking beaches and picturesque hikes, this guide covers it all without…
As the two biggest cities in Ireland (well, in the Republic) the drive between Cork and Dublin is a well-trodden route. It will take you 2 hours and 50 minutes (258 km) without stopping, but, actually, there is quite a lot to see along the drive (you’ll pass by the iconic Rock of Cashel and…
The drive from Cork City to Bantry is just over an hour and 30 minutes (85 km) without stops, and it follows the N22 and the R586. But, I highly recommend making a few stops to break up the journey as there are some lovely spots along this drive – such as Farran Woods and…
Drombeg Stone Circle (aka the Druid’s Altar), which dates back to the Bronze Age, is a worthy stop in West Cork. It’s next to the lovely town of Glandore, and it’s well-known as one of the most significant archaeological sites in the country. This ancient site dates back to the Bronze Age, around 1100 – 800…
As the second largest city in Ireland, Cork City features on many tourists’ Irish itinerary. And even though I love the city (I’m from here), Cork gets a bit of a bad rap among some visitors as it’s not as visually appealing as, say, Dublin or Galway. And that’s exactly why I always recommend Cork…
Nestled in the sheltered harbor of Glengarriff in West Cork, Garnish Island – also known as Ilnacullin – is a hidden gem that is known (but not by many) for its breathtaking beauty, unique microclimate, and serene landscapes. This 15-hectare island is home to a diverse collection of exotic plants and trees, and the gardens…
