Cork City
Situated at the mouth of the River Lee, Cork City is the largest city in the southern province of Munster. Places of interest include Corks most famous building The Church Tower of Shandon, City Hall and Cork Opera House.
Those looking to do some shopping should visit the pedestrian-friendly Patrick Street which is adjacent to Grand Parade, a tree lined street which serves as home to many of the cities offices and financial institutions.
Cork City is the countries gastronomic capital boasting a wide range of first class restaurants. There are also lots of cosy bars in the city where you can enjoy a pint of the local stout, Murphys.
Where to stay
Check out our accommodation page where you will find a comprehensive list of accommodation conveniently presented using Google Maps technology.
Irelands Largest County
The county of Cork is the largest in Ireland with a long coastline along the south. Neighbouring counties are Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary and Waterford.
About 8 km north of the city you will find Blarney Castle home to the famous "Stone of Eloquence". As the legend goes, kiss the stone and you will never be lost for words again! Heading further north towards the agricultural town of Mallow brings you close to Castletownroche where you will find Annes Grove Gardens. A walk around these spectacular gardens is a very relaxing way to spend a summer evening.
South East of the city is the small coastal town of Cobh. This was the last port of call for the doomed Titanic. Nearby is the Fota Wildlife Park in Carrigtwohill, with its exotic species of wildlife.
Traveling out from Cork city on the N71 will lead you towards the popular tourist area of West Cork which is renowned for its spectacular scenery. You will come upon charming Irish towns and villages such as Kinsale, Clonakilty, Rosscarbery and Skibbereen right the way down to Irelands most southerly point Mizen Head and across to Castletownbere on the Beara Peninsula. Skibbereen is one of west corks most picturesque towns and home to the Skibbereen heritage centre located in the award winning Old Gasworks building.
Activities on the Sea
Being a coastal county water is the main attraction when it comes to activities in Cork. Learn how to kayak and explore the "Copper Coast" of nearby Waterford with a trip organised by Seapaddling.com. You could even take some diving lessons and explore the underwater heritage off the Cork coast. Something more relaxing might be a boat trip where you can go whale and dolphin watching!
Golf
The southwest offers many challenging courses including the popular Water Rock and Castlecomer courses.
Fishing
Whether you want to fish the River Blackwater for salmon on try your hand at fly fishing for sea trout the south has plenty to offer the fisherman. The River Bandon offers excellent salmon & sea trout fishing as it flows through Dunmanway, Bandon & on to Kinsale.
Horse Racing
Cork Racecourse located in Mallow hosts 19 race meetings spread throughout the year. Check out their racing calendar to see when the next event is due to take place.
Language Schools
Southern Ireland is a popular destination for people wishing to learn the English language. Two popular schools are the Cork Language School based in Cork City Centre and the Kilkenny School of English based in nearby Kilkenny.
Something Different
Those looking for something different could plan their trip to coincide with the Cork International Choral Festival. For over 50 years this festival has been celebrating the very best of choral and vocal music at the beginning of May every year.
