Festivals
West Cork is known for its festivals – a few you may want to try are:
West Cork Chamber Music Festival
By Ferry
The following islands are easily accessible by ferry.
Bere Island
Amazing walks with outstanding views back to the mainland and out to sea. Ferries go from Castletownbere.
Garnish Island
A gardener’s paradise with wonderful plants to see at all times of the year. Ferries go from Glengarriff.
Whiddy Island
Amazing walks, lovely pub (The Bank House), great chat and impromptu music. Check the website for regular guided walks where you will get an insight into island life and the rich history of this little place.
On Foot
The Wild Atlantic Way is bisected by many world famous walking routes the longest of which is the Beara-Breifne Way. This starts on the Beara peninsula and can be done in chunks – and you can get a passport stamp if you do the whole thing.
Priest’s Leap Walk
A strenuous uphill walk on the route of the old road from Bantry to Kenmare. The views of West Cork and into Kerry are well worth the effort.
Snave
Snave is the Irish word for swim – be prepared for cold but sparkling seas as you swim off the jetty at Snave. Just around the corner from the house.
The Sheeps Head Way
A peaceful, unspoilt peninsula which has some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Ireland.
The Beara Way
A long distance walking route around the highly spectacular Beara peninsula walk which takes in part of the Beara Breifne way.
Mizen Peninsula
A wild and beautiful peninsula which includes the stunning Barley Cove Beach, Three Castles Walk and Mizen Head Signal Station – and bridge experience.
Gougane Barra
Beautiful lakeside church and ancient monk’s cells, surrounded by walking trails and stunning woods.
Other Things to Do
Bantry House & Garden
Bantry House hosts many of the festivals but well worth a visit in its own right. Tours of the house, walk around the gardens, enjoy the view and some tea and cake in the café.
Kenmare
Drive up to Kenmare and enjoy some shopping in the town or at the amazing look out spot at Moll’s Gap and a spot of tea and cake at Avoca. The drive from Bantry to Moll’s Gap is one of the most scenic in the world!
We look forward to welcoming you to this idyllic place.
