Top 10 Things To Do, Activities and Attractions in Clonakilty

"Charles Fort – Situated on the edge of the water in the scenic village of Summer Cove in the Kinsale harbour of County Cork, lies the impressive and historic Charles Fort. The castle was originally constructed in the year 1682, and it was built as the ‘new fort’, in contrast to the ‘old fort’, or James Fort, which was built in the early 17th century on the other side of the same harbour. The fort played a critical military role throughout the centuries that it was active, until the year 1921, following the Anglo-Irish Treaty."

"Charles Fort in Kinsale is a classic example of a star-shaped fort and has five bastions, constructed in the late 17th century on the site of an earlier coastal fortification. Perhaps the best-known historical attraction in Kinsale, Charles Fort, is on the road just beyond Summercove. It is open all year, and regular guided tours are available."

"One of Europe's best-preserved star-shaped artillery forts, this vast 17th-century fortification would be worth a visit for its spectacular views alone. But there's much more here: the 18th- and 19th-century..."

"Bantry House & Gardens, a great opportunity to visit one of Ireland's renowned stately houses with views out over Bantry Bay. Take a tour of this historic house and gardens. Take in the history that will surround you here in West Cork."

"With its melancholic air of faded gentility, 18th-century Bantry House makes for an intriguing visit. From the Gobelin tapestries in the drawing room to the columned splendour of the library, it conjures up a..."

"One of Ireland's most famed manors is noted for its picture-perfect perch, on a hillock above the south shore of Bantry Bay. The fine…"

"This one is slightly different to the other options on the list but come on who doesn't want to go walking with alpacas?. This special farm allows you take an alpaca for a 40 minute walk while walking along a trail that runs past gorgeous fields, forestry and past the stunning waterfall. As well as the alpacas you can visit the rescued rabbits, donkeys, Shetland ponies, hens, cats and fogs."

"West Cork's adorable alpaca walk is a must for this summer's bucket list. Waterfall Alpaca Farm in Castledonovan, near Drimoleague, is a magical place where you can visit the cutest of furry mammals and even take them out for a hike. The nature-loving owners even rent out cabins for those who want the full wild experience."

"Located on the outskirts of Kealkill village, the castle played a dramatic role in one of Irish History’s most exciting stories. In 1602, the castle’s owner, Donal Cam O’Sullivan Bere, led his followers past its gates on a march to Leitrim that would see him join the Flight of Earls from Ireland; that flight itself marked the end of Gaelic civilisation in Ireland. During the summer, the castle is open every day from 9am until 5pm."

"St Multose founded a monastery here in the 6th century AD and this church is named for him. Built in 1190 (the oldest building in Kinsale)but with substantial alterations over the years, this remains an interesting example of Norman architecture and has remained in continuous use to the present day."

"Sherkin Island is situated very southwest of Cork and a perfect location if you want to go camping without getting disturbed, especially since the island has a population of around 111 people. To get to the island, you can take a 10 minute ferry from Baltimore harbour. Silver Strand tends to be where people pitch up for a night."

"Visit For: Art, Walking Trails, Retreat.Distance: 40 Minutes (43KM) From Clonakilty to Baltimore Pier. Transport to the Island: 10 Minute Ferry from Baltimore Pier. (Photo: @sallyannewade)"

"On Heir Island—a four-minute ferry ride—this unlikely venture is a pilgrimage spot for food lovers, who praise the high standard of cooking...Read More"

"Our family run seasonal lakeside hotel is nestled in one of the most scenic and romantic glens in the South West of Ireland, in West Cork, at the source of the river Lee, and just one kilometre from Gougane Barra National Forest Park. Overlooking magical Gougane Barra Lake and St. Finbarr's sixth century hermitage, Gougane Barra Hotel is a favourite place for visitors of all kinds. Our 3 star, country house hotel is renowned for its genuine old-fashioned hospitality, award winning real food, relaxed atmosphere, comfortable accommodation and personal attention, which people keep returning for."

"In one of the most peaceful and beautiful locations in Ireland, this delightfully old-fashioned family-run hotel is set in a Forest Park overlooking Gougane Barra Lake (famous for its monastic settlements). The Lucey family has run the hotel since 193 ..."

"Fernhill House and Gardens - The gardens at Fernhill are the perfect place to relax and unwind. There are many quiet corners for you to enjoy a book, chat or reflect on the beauty of the gardens. There are many stunning features including a heart shaped flower bed, rose walk, geyser and many more."

"Fernhill House is a beautiful family run country house set on acres of gorgeous gardens in wonderful West Cork. Address: Clonakilty, West Cork"

"Way back in 2009, the guys from Oak Fire Pizza started out their biz in their converted cow box pi..."

"A 30-minute drive from the city, Kinsale was once dubbed Ireland’s gourmet capital. Though it lost its way for a spell, this impossibly pretty little seaside town is once again on an upward epicurean swing. O’Herlihy’s Kinsale (OHK) and Saint Francis Provisions are fine and funky little cafes, injecting youthful spirit into a town that has been at the forefront of Irish dining for more than 40 years."

"‘Former Head Chef Pat Kiely has returned as the owner, and has re-assembled the team that made O’Connors Seafood Restaurant of the Year in 2009. You will be able to enjoy our signature dish of Monkfish and smoked venison risotto, our pots of mussles and live lobsters from our tank, not to mention our Oysterhaven oysters.’"

"When you travel along the Wild Atlantic Way to Baltimore our job is to help you rest in comfortable beds, relax, refresh and enjoy the unique and majestic beauty of West Cork, hide yourself away in our cosy pub with a lovely creamy pint of stout or a traditional craft ale from our Nano-Brewery (Ireland's 1st Brew-Hotel). Address: Baltimore, Co.Cork"

"The Casey family's striking dark green and red hotel is just outside Baltimore and enjoys dramatic views over Roaring Water Bay to the islands beyond. Opened by Michael and Ann Casey in 1975 and now helped by their son Dominic as Manager, it has been ..."

"A spot that I visited this past July for the first time, it left an impression on me so much so that I can’t wait to get back there. The sun was beating down and the seats near the road are the perfect spot to gaze over the glistening water. Cars and people battle here for priority as space is at a premium, but it adds to the buzz of this brilliant seaside establishment."

"Picture-postcard views over the harbour, especially from the outdoor tables, and a superlative menu make this one of West Cork's best pubs for eating out. Fresh seafood is sourced from Union Hall harbour (clearly..."