Cork, Ireland – A friendly and welcoming place to visit

Cork City is one of Ireland’s most friendly and welcoming counties.

Located on the South West coast of Ireland, Cork is the largest of all Irish counties, and to many, the most varied. Washed by the warm Gulf Stream and the mild moist south winds, palm trees and bamboo flourish. It is the most favored corner of Ireland: here Spring begins.

From the lively center of Cork City, to the sweet tranquility of Mizen Head, Cork is a study in contrasts. One moment you are in the midst of a world-class shopping expedition, and the next, you are pausing to absorb a spectacular seaside vista. All of which makes Cork a unique and delightful area to visit.

The Rivers Lee and Blackwater, flowing through gently rolling meadows to the sea, will serve as your guide as you explore this delightful county. While the lively arts and music culture will make your heart beat faster, the beautiful scenery and world-class dining will give you plenty of reason to kick back and relax.

Top Things to do

1. Visit Cork City

Steeped in history, Cork City is fast gaining a reputation as one of Europe’s hippest cities. Exploring Cork is an enjoyable, multi-day pursuit. Ring the Shandon Bells in the 300 year-old tower of St. Anne’s Church, and marvel at the French Gothic spires of St. Finbarr’s Cathedral.
You will discover unique shopping and dining options, including the English Market, with its stalls selling foods from all over the world, and numerous pedestrian walkways and sidewalks flanked by smart boutiques and major department stores.

At every corner you’ll come across another panoramic view, another interesting architectural feature and some of the best art galleries, theatres and museums in Ireland. No visit would be complete without a trip to Blarney Castle, home to the famous Blarney Stone. Tradition says that those who kiss the stone will receive the gift of eloquence.

2. Golfing in Cork

Cork is a supreme location for the golfing enthusiast. From courses located on the rugged breathtaking peninsula on the southern coast of Ireland, jutting dramatically out into the Atlantic, to secluded courses among luscious green countryside, Cork county is the perfect premise for experienced golfers or those just starting out. Including courses which have hosted Murhpy’s Irish Open, you are sure not to be disappointed! Whether you are staying in the City or County a golf course is within a 20 minute drive from you.

Old Head of Kinsale, Co. Cork.
Photo Joleen Cronin

3. Explore the Regions

From the lively centre of Cork City, to the sweet tranquillity of Mizen Head, County Cork is a study in contrasts. County Cork is situated in the South West of Ireland, it is the largest of all the Irish counties and in many ways the most varied. Rich farmlands and river valleys contrast with the wild sandstone hills of the west, and above all there is the magnificent coastline scooped and fretted by the Atlantic into great bays and secret coves, strewn with rocky headlands and long soft golden sands. One moment you are in the midst of a world-class shopping expedition, and the next, you are pausing to absorb a spectacular seaside vista. All of which makes County Cork a unique and delightful area to visit. The Rivers Lee and Blackwater, flowing through gently Rolling Meadows to the sea, will serve as your guide as you explore this delightful County.

Dursey Island, County Cork – Photographer/Creator: Arthur Ward
© Tourism Ireland

4. Water sports

Situated in the southwest of Ireland, Cork County sits on the Atlantic Ocean, making it the ideal spot for the water sports enthusiast. From discovering the depths of the sea, sailing off into the sunset, or relaxing on the beach, Cork County has a water adventure for people of all ages. From fishing to sailing, from surfing to scuba-diving you will find it in Cork.

5. Dining Out

Dining out in Cork is an experience not to be missed. Whether it is a visit to Kinsale; the Gourmet Capital of Ireland or a cookery lesson in the famed Ballymaloe – you won’t be disappointed. There is something to tempt every palate in the county of Cork.

Ballymaloe House. (c) Chris Hill / Tourism Ireland

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