Cork's Countryside & Kinsale

Wonderful vistas and photo opportunities abound during this scenic tour through Cork's charming countryside and visit to the unique sailing town of Kinsale.

Depart the pier in Ringaskiddy for the drive to West Cork. During your drive through the picturesque Cork countryside, stop for a photo opportunity of Charles Fort, which commands panoramic views of the town and beautiful Kinsale Harbor. Continue on to Kinsale, a charming town that has earned the European prize for Tourism and the Environment, as well as Entente Floreale, National Tidy Town and Gourmet Capital awards. Nestled between the hills and the valley, Kinsale is safely sheltered by the rounded contours of a beautiful harbor. Believed to have been founded by the Anglo-Normans around 1177, Kinsale was a magnificent naval base in the 17th and 18th centuries, and enjoyed a degree of prosperity uncommon in Ireland.

Upon arrival, you will see that Kinsale owes its unique character to the fact that it was a garrison town and port of consequence for over 300 years; hence the magnificent Georgian homes and Dutch influence of its architecture. At one time, Kinsale was also the natural landfall for all the great sailing ships from the continent and the Americas. During your visit, you will be treated to some tea or coffee with biscuits. Then, enjoy free time to walk around this beautiful town, browse in the shops and take in the local atmosphere.

The changing scenery unfolds at each bend of the road on your return.