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Corkonians will tell you that Rebel County is “the real capital” of Ireland. Factually, we know this isn’t so, but blessed with some of the country’s best food, views and people, it’s definitely worth a visit.
If you already live there, then you know that there’s an abundance of things to eat, see and do. For those planning a visit, set yourself up in Cork City and once you’ve explored all there is to see there, adventure further afield.
From kayaking to whale watching, here are 9 great day trips that are only a few hours (or less!) from Cork City.
Kayaking on Lough Hyne is an experience like no other – not only is it Europe’s only inland saltwater lake and Ireland’s first marine reserve, but it also glows in the dark. Yes, really. Opt for the starlight tour and you’ll be treated to a first-row view of the action – the likes of which will leave you reaching for the camera… the photos rarely do it justice though.
A friendly seaside village at the heart of West Cork, Clonakilty is renowned for its Irish hospitality. Famed for its black pudding, it’s the Galley Head Lighthouse that I recommend making the trip out for. While there are no public tours of the lighthouse, it is open during Heritage Week (this week!) each year. Even from the outside, there are photo ops aplenty though.
Just a stone’s throw away from Clonakilty, Inchydoney Beach is the perfect spot to catch a wave or two. A haven for water lovers, the local surf school offers lessons to guests of all ages and levels of competence. Wet suits and surfboards are provided too so all you need is your sense of adventure.
Around an hour and a half drive from Cork City, you’ll find the Copper Coast Geopark. A UNESCO Global Geopark it stretches along the coastline for 25km. Named after the 19th-century copper mines that lie at the heart of the cliffs, you can take in the sights via one of the many walking/audio trails or perch yourself on the sand and enjoy a picnic in between showers.
Very familiar to horticulturists and tree lovers, Garinish Island is a cornucopia of vegetation. Nestled snugly in the sheltered harbour of Glengarriff in Bantry Bay, it’s often referred to as a garden of rare beauty. On the island, pathways wind around the landscape leading visitors to any number of beautiful buildings – including the Grecian temple, the clock tower, the casita and an original Martello Tower.
Probably best known for being the “last port of call” for the famous RMS Titanic, Cobh offers up a wealth of knowledge on the ill-fated ship. Steeped in history, the Victorian promenade and bandstand is a great spot to stop and enjoy ice cream too.
Head down to Courtmacsherry and book in for one of the Atlantic whale and dolphin watching tours. Captained by experienced, professional skippers, they know all the best locations to spot some wildlife. Observe fin whales, humpback whales, minke whales, common dolphins, basking sharks, harbour porpoises and sunfish amongst other marine life. Food at Monks Lane restaurant is a must after a day out at sea.
Easily recognised by its colourful streetscapes, Kinsale is always a good idea – particularly for foodies who should make sure that one of the local food tours is on the agenda. Offering two different options, you can choose from the original walking food tour or opt for a foraging and picnic tour instead. The latter incorporates food tasting and coastal foraging as well.
Get your fill of Irish folklore at Gougane Barra. The site of St Finbarr’s first monastic community, legend has it that he was met by an enormous serpent called Lú on arrival. Somewhat put out at not having the lake to himself anymore, he’s believed to have torn a chalice from St Finbarr’s hands as he was celebrating mass one day. Needless to say, the snake was quickly banished, but while Lú has since departed, the ruins of the monastery remain.
This is an updated version of an article originally published in January 2023.