Spectacular landmarks & remote islands
Experience unspoiled landscapes and traditions as you visit the many islands that are located off the coast of West Cork. With so many, you'll be spoiled for choice which to visit first. Some famous (such as Fastnet Rock, also known as The Teardrop of Ireland, the last sight of Ireland for emigrants sailing to America) to the smaller inhabited islands such as Cape Clear. These are really exciting places to visit so we've provided you with these links where you can discover a lot more about them...
Make new friends
The South West Coast of Ireland is one of the best places in Europe to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. With such a rich marine life, we're privileged to have a total of 24 different species that regularly visit our waters, including minke, fin and humpback whales, as well as Risso’s and bottlenose dolphins. On rare occasions white beaked dolphins, and even pilot and killer whales, also make appearances. Just make sure you bring your camera with you!
Rare species
Rare bird sightings can be more common along our coastline as the high cliffs and rugged terrain provide a great habitat for a range of exotic birds, which choose to land here as they migrate from other parts of the world. Shearwaters, Corey’s, Manx, Sooty and the Great Shearwater, alongside storm petrels, Artic Skuas, Puffins, Razorbills and Peregrine Falcons are all regularly sighted.
Hidden treasures
With an abundance of art, culture and heritage, you'll find a vast array of historic homes and castles along the West Cork coastline, starting with St. Charles Fort here in Kinsale. As one of the largest military forts in the country, Charles Fort has been associated with some of the most momentous events in Irish history.
