A day trip in West Cork

Start your day trip by leaving Cork city for Kinsale, a colourful coastal town well worth a visit. Not only does this harbour town offer majestic scenery with its green waters surrounded by tree-covered hills, it's also a destination full of surprises.

On one hand, you can stroll through the colourful streets and visit the many craft shops, art galleries and cafés of the town, and on the other, you can get a whole new perspective on the town from a cruise through Kinsale Harbour. A way for you to admire Charles Fort, a star-shaped fortress dating from the 17th century and one of the largest military forts in Ireland.

What’s more, your stay in the city doesn't stop there. To make it complete, you'll need to discover one of the best aspects of the city: its gastronomy. With a reputation as the gastronomic capital of Ireland, there are plenty of delicious dishes to sample. Whether you go to a Michelin-starred restaurant or a small bistro, you must try local seafood for a real treat.

Kinsale is not only a very friendly and convivial town where the community is at the centre of everyone's concerns, it's also the starting point for the Wild Atlantic Way. Thus, once you've completed the first step of your journey, it's time to join the Wild Atlantic Way, one of Ireland's most picturesque roads, which runs along the coast and offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and dramatic cliffs.

Continue your journey with a stop in Clonakilty, a seaside town in the heart of West Cork. Full of life and history, this town is sure to impress. Discover the destination by strolling through the town and by visiting the Michael Collins House and the Michael Collins Centre, located just a few kilometres from the town. Indeed, Clonakilty is known for telling a lot of Irish history, not least thanks to both museums dedicated to the famous Irish revolutionary.

What's more, nestling on the seafront, the town is an excellent resort destination if you want the best ocean views to relax, after a long day exploring. End your day in Inchydoney peninsula, at Inchydoney Beach, one of Ireland's most beautiful beaches, and stroll along its wide expanse of soft golden sand.

Here the possibilities are endless: you can relax with a book while overlooking the ocean, you can swim and play with the rolling waves or you can even surf. Indeed, this popular spot for surfing enthusiasts in Ireland offers surfing lessons for those who want to try their hand at this unique sport. Whatever you decide to do during the day, one thing's for sure, don't miss a good picnic here at sunset!