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Ireland: County Cork(Trip #56526)

Tour Overview

The verdant valleys and rolling hills of County Cork, Ireland, are as abustle with fun activities as they are rich in enchanting myths, natural treasures, and the ebullient spirit of the Irish people.

Whether leprechauns are fact or fiction, we have a magical time experiencing this stirring region to the fullest - from the surf pounding on a rocky coastline to the inviting glow of quaint country villages to the ghostly whispers swirling about ancient historic sites.

This exciting six-day excursion makes the most of Ireland's diverse wonders. We seem to step back in time as we meander along paths traversing tranquil emerald meadows, wandering through cool woodlands, and stopping to admire centuries-old stone buildings and sacred sites. We embrace the thrill of coastal living by paddling about calm bays in a sea kayak - keeping an eye out for playful seals! Cultural encounters add another intriguing dimension to our journey. Basking in the renowned hospitality of the local people, we are treated to live Celtic music, captivating tales of Irish folklore, and even an opportunity to kick up our heels in a traditional Irish dance. Everywhere we wander, we experience the legendary luck - as well as the tremendous fun - of the Irish.

Day by Day Itinerary

DAY 1 

Long Strand - Baltimore; 6 miles, moderate
From the Cork International Airport, we begin our journey with a soul-stirring introduction to Ireland's ancient past at a 6,000-year-old stone circle and archaeological site of Drombeg.  With a backdrop of rock-walled pastures and cornfields, we experience breathtaking panoramic views of the sea as we tour this former religious site.

Our first walk today is on Long Strand, a beach walk where we explore dunes and understand why this beach is a surfer destination.  Following lunch, we begin a gentle walk along sheep paths lined with fragrant heather leading to a Napoleonic watchtower, which overlooks the bay from a thrilling vantage point.  We meander down to our cozy accommodations for the next three nights.

Baltimore is a picturesque fishing village located on one of the many fingers and knuckles of land that form the stunning southwest coastline. Home to a venerable boat-building tradition, Baltimore is also the hub of the region's sailing community.  Amidst the bustle of this authentic seafaring hamlet, we take in a taste of local culture along with splendid ocean views, including an outlook on the hump-shaped Sherkin Island and "Carbery's Hundred Isles." 

Dinner is at a charming local restaurant. Afterwards, we may choose to end our first evening with a casual stroll back to our hotel.
Casey's of Baltimore, Baltimore

DAY 2
Lough Hyne and Roaring Water Bay; 5 miles, easy to moderate with one short climb; Sherkin Island; 3 miles, moderate    

Today after a hearty breakfast, our walk leads past several ancient holy wells on routes winding through some of the oldest intact woods in the country.  These wells are said to possess healing powers and are a direct link to the mystical world of Celtic mythology.  We also marvel at spectacular vistas over Roaring Waters Bay and the internationally renowned Lough Hyne Marine Nature Reserve, nestled in the green folds of surrounding hills. 

We return to the quaint village of Baltimore for lunch at the Glebe House and Gardens.  Following lunch, we enjoy a ten-minute boat ride to Sherkin Island.  We have several walk options this afternoon, all with breathtaking views.

Dinner is at an elegant restaurant in town.
Casey's of Baltimore, Baltimore

DAY 3
Sea Kayak; Castletownshend; 4 miles, easy;  Lissaird Estate; 3 miles, easy

We begin today with an adventurous sea kayaking exploration of the secluded Rinn Harbour.  We then transfer to the coastal hamlet of Castletownshend, which is an ideal destination for lunch.  Fortified for the rest of our walk, we pass by the ruins of an ancient castle before we ascend a gentle slope to the hilltop St. Barrahane's Church, known for its spired turret and magnificent Harry Clarke stained-glass windows.  

Following lunch, we visit the Lissaird Estate and walk the grounds of this beautiful area.  Our easy walk offers a combination of wooded and lake-side trails.  We enjoy a sumptuous dinner at a fine restaurant in town which features seafood harvested daily by local fisherman from the sea.
Casey's of Baltimore, Baltimore

DAY 4
Mt. Gabriel; 2 miles, moderate; Bantry House and Gardens; Glengarriff; 5 miles, easy

We depart this morning for Mt. Gabriel.  Our walk begins with a climb of approximately 1,000 feet within the first half mile and then flattens out as we walk through Bronze Age copper mines and culminates with a spectacular view over west Cork.

Late this morning, we arrive at the Bantry House, a Georgian mansion that is now a museum with a vast, 45-acre 19th-century garden.  We may climb the 100 steps up the "Stairway to the Sky" for awe-inspiring views of Bantry Bay.  Following lunch, we enter Glengarriff woods where we enjoy a gentle walk along a beautiful wooded nature trail that highlights traces of the dense oak forests that used to occupy this region.

This evening, you are free to choose from one of Kenmare's many restaurants or pubs for dinner.
Brook Lane Hotel, Kenmare

DAY 5
Gleninchaquin-Beara Peninsula; 3-5 miles, easy to moderate

We begin today with a walk over the rolling hills of the Beara Peninsula under the sombre peaks of the Caha Mountains, some of Ireland's highest.  Here, we have many options available as we meander across a serene landscape surrounded by stone walls, rocky hills, and more shades of green than one can imagine. 

Tonight, we enjoy our farewell dinner at a landmark restaurant in town known for their fresh local lamb and seafood.
Brook Lane Hotel, Kenmare

DAY 6
Farewell and departure

This morning, we bid our fellow walkers farewell.

We enjoy breakfast and board our mini-bus for a return to Cork International Airport.