The Cork Road Trip Guide: 2 Very Different Itineraries

This guide contains 2 very different Cork itineraries – one explores Cork City, Kinsale, Cobh and part of West Cork, while the other focuses solely on West Cork.

The itineraries are both 4 days in length, but I’ve mapped them out in a way that you can easily shorten them (i.e. if you’re only spending the weekend in Cork) or combine them (if you have 4 days+ and want to see the whole county).

In a nutshell:

• Itinerary 1: Uses Glengarriff as a base for the first 2 days and Skibbereen as a base for the second
• Itinerary 2: Uses Cork City as a base for the first 2 days and Kinsale as a base for the second

Itinerary 1: The West Cork road trip

As you’ll see from the map above, the most efficient way to plan this 4-night trip is to use two bases. Glengarriff works well for the first half of the journey, giving you handy access to the Beara Peninsula and Garnish Island.

Skibbereen then covers you nicely for the second half, with everything from Mizen to Baltimore within easy reach.

Day 1: Exploring Glengarriff and the area around it

Day 1 assumes you’ve had a decent spin to get to Glengarriff, which is where you’ll be based for nights 1 and 2.

So, to keep things easy, there’s very little driving today – it’s all about soaking up Glengarriff and the area that surrounds it.

1. Glengarriff Town

Your Cork road trip begins in Glengarriff Town. With just 200 or so residents, it might seem like a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it town, but don’t let that fool you – Glengarriff is the gateway to many of the best places to visit in West Cork.

Tucked between the Caha Mountains and Bantry Bay, Glengarriff gives you easy reach to forest walks, island ferries, mountain passes, sculpture gardens, and cycle trails that never seem to end.

For this itinerary, I’m going to recommend that you park up, stroll through the town and grab a coffee from the Sugarloaf Cafe before heading off on your merry way.

2. Take the ferry to Garnish Island

Garnish Island is a lush, 37-acre garden island tucked into Glengarriff Harbour. What began as a vision for a grand mansion evolved into a serene retreat shaped by architect Harold Peto and the art-loving Bryce family in the early 1900s.

To get there, hop on a ferry from Glengarriff village. The 15-minute journey weaves past a seal colony, where around 250 seals lounge and sunbathe on the rocks. Once ashore, you’re free to wander at your own pace.

You’ll want to allow for around 1-1.5 hours on the island. When you’re there, you can admire the exotic plants, climb the 19th-century Martello Tower and enjoy views over beautiful Bantry Bay.

3. Head to Bantry for lunch then explore the gardens

When you land back in Glengarrif, hop in the car and take the 20-minute drive to Bantry. If hunger is yet to kick-in, head straight for Bantry House and Gardens.

Bantry House is a grand 18th-century estate overlooking Bantry Bay, filled with original art, antiques, and centuries of history. Outside, its seven formal terraces and sweeping views make it one of the most impressive stops on the Wild Atlantic Way.

When you’re ready for a feed, there are some great options in the town, like:

• The Fish Kitchen (seafood restaurant): Located over a fish shop and known for dishing up ultra-fresh local catch and simple, flavour-packed dishes
• The Snug (traditional pub): Expect hearty Irish lunches like fish and chips in a cosy setting
• Organico Café (health-focused café): Stylish café known for organic, veggie-friendly lunches and top-notch coffee

4. Tackle the handy Glengarriff Waterfall Walk

Head back to Glengarriff and go straight to Glengarriff Nature Reserve where we’ll round-off day 1 of this Cork itinerary with a handy ramble.

Glengarriff Nature Reserve is a 300-hectare woodland that was once part of the Bantry House estate. It’s now a peaceful haven for walkers and wildlife alike.

The Waterfall Walk is the easiest and most popular trail here. It’s only 15 minutes each way on a gentle forest path that leads to-and-from Glengarriff Waterfall, a scenic cascade that’s especially powerful after rain.

5. Enjoy an evening in Glengarriff

When you finish up your stroll, head back to your accommodation (Casey’s Hotel and Eccles are both great places to stay) and relax for a bit.

When you’re ready, it’s time to head out for a bite and a sip:

For food

• Eccles Hotel: There are several dining options including the Harbour Bar (casual) and the sea-facing Garnish Restaurant (more formal)
• Casey’s Hotel: You’ll find hearty, traditional Irish fare made with fresh, local ingredients and a strong focus on quality in a casual setting

For drinks

• The Blue Loo: A lively, old-school pub in the town with live music on weekends and a covered beer garden (popular with locals-and-visitors-alike)
• Bernard Harrington’s: A traditional pub with regular live music, finely-poured-pints and a great welcome from owner Bernard

Day 2: The Beara Peninsula

Day 2 of this Cork itinerary sees you tackling the Ring of Beara, a 148km/92 mile scenic route that showcases some Cork and Kerry’s most impressive scenery.

The total drive-time for day 2 is around 3.5 hours, give-or-take, but it’ll be broken up a lot with plenty of stops along the way.

1. The Healy Pass

The first stop of the day is Healy Pass, around a 27-minute from Glengarriff (you’ll follow the R572 along the coast of the Beara Peninsula before detouring inland).

You’ll enjoy views of the the Sheep’s Head Peninsula and Whiddy Island to your left. Carved through the Caha Mountains during famine relief works in 1847, the pass climbs to 334m via a very twisty road.

Near the summit, there’s a handy pull-in spot (map location here) where you can soak up jaw-dropping views of Glanmire Lake.

2. Castletown-Bearhaven

You’ll have to retrace your steps (or tyre tracks, should I say…) back down to the coast road. Castletown-Bearhaven is 25 minutes from Healy Pass and it’s a good spot to stop, grab a coffee and have a little ramble.

Head for Sugrues On The Square and grab a coffee-to-go (they do tasty sweet-and-savoury breakfast, too, if you’re peckish!).

The town, which is one of Ireland’s busiest fishing ports, is cradled between the Caha Mountains and the deep, sheltered waters of Berehaven. Head for a stroll up its colourful streets.

Optional stops: Bere Island (history-packed island easily reached in 15–30 mins by ferry) and Dursey Island (remote, car-free island reached by Ireland’s only cable car)

3. Allihies viepoint, beach and village

There’s a lot to like about the little village of Allihies (and neighbouring Eyeries). One of the highlights of the area is the road that leads down into Allihies (it’s around a 25-minute drive from Castletown-Bearhaven).

There’s a tiny bit of space to pull in (here on Maps). The view from here, and as you descend, is out of this world. When you arrive in the village, head for Ballydonegan Beach where you’ll see white sand blending into crystal clear water.

Copper mining started in Allihies way back, in 1812. You can learn all about it in the village’s Copper Mine Museum. You can also walk the copper mine trails.

Optional stops around Allihies

There’s plenty to see and do around Allihies for those of you that fancy exploring more of the area. The map above will give you a sense of the lay-of-the-land.

As you can see from the map, there’s plenty to uncover. You could easily spend 5 days on a Cork road trip that solely focused on Beara and the islands that lay dotted off its coast.

4. Glenbeg Lough

Roughly 40 minutes from Allihies, just beyond Ardgroom, lies Glenbeg Lough – a glacial lake hidden in a bowl of mountains, well off the typical tourist trail.

This quiet spot is part of the Glanmore Bog Special Area of Conservation and home to salmon, brown trout, and even the endangered European eel.

There’s a handy little pull-in spot by the water’s edge, so you can stop, stretch the legs, and take in the stillness. Not bad for a quick detour!

Optional stop: Gleninchaquin Park is a 45-minute drive from Glenbeg Lough this is a privately owned valley near Kenmare known for its roaring waterfalls and scenic trails.

5. The Caha Pass

One of my favourite drives in this corner of Ireland, along with the Slea Head Drive and the Ring of Kerry, is the road between Kenmare and Glengarriff.

Although it only takes 30 minutes to drive, there’s plenty to see-and-do along the way.

The route starts from just outside of Kenmare Town, a 30-minute drive from Gleninchaquin. I’ve outlined it on the map above which takes in everything from the Caha Pass and Molly Gallivan’ to Turner’s Rock and more.

6. Glengarriff for the night

When you finish up your drive, head back to your accommodation (Casey’s Hotel and Eccles are both great places to stay) and relax for a bit.

When you’re ready, it’s time to head out for a bite and a sip:

For food

• Eccles Hotel: There are several dining options including the Harbour Bar (casual) and the sea-facing Garnish Restaurant (more formal)
• Casey’s Hotel: You’ll find hearty, traditional Irish fare made with fresh, local ingredients and a strong focus on quality in a casual setting

For drinks

• The Blue Loo: A lively, old-school pub in the town with live music on weekends and a covered beer garden (popular with locals-and-visitors-alike)
• Bernard Harrington’s: A traditional pub with regular live music, finely-poured-pints and a great welcome from owner Bernard

Day 3: Sheep’s Head, Mizen and more

Day 3 of this Cork itinerary has a total of 3 hours and 20 minutes drive time with plenty of stops along the way.

You’ll be following the Sheep’s Head and Mizen road trip that I have outlined on the map above. Day 3 ends in Skibbereen where you’ll be spending 2 nights.

1. A ‘seat’ with a mesmerising view

Leave Glengarriff and head west along the coastal road, where sweeping views of sea and sky quickly unfold. Around 45 minutes later, you’ll arrive at your first stop — Fionn mac Cumhaill’s Seat (here on Maps).

This Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point offers a handy pull-in spot with panoramic views over Kilcrohane, Bantry Bay, and the distant Beara Peninsula.

The stone bench is perched on Seefin, the highest point on the Sheep’s Head Peninsula, and it was unveiled in 1996 to mark the opening of the Sheep’s Head Way walking trail.

It was sculpted by Cork artist Ken Thompson and features a line from Seamus Heaney that captures the power of the landscape. The name comes from Irish mythology, where Fionn mac Cumhaill is said to have rested here, legs stretched toward the lake below.

2. The Sheep’s Head Lighthouse walk

Continue along the road for about 20 minutes and you’ll reach the car park for the Sheep’s Head Lighthouse — a compact white tower built in 1968 to guide tankers bound for the Gulf Oil terminal on Whiddy Island.

Standing at 7 metres tall, its light sits 83 metres above sea level and flashes three times every 15 seconds.

Now fully automated and unstaffed, the lighthouse is powered by ESB poles, with construction materials originally delivered via helicopter in 250 separate runs.

The walk from the car park to the lighthouse takes roughly 30–35 minutes each way — be sure to check the warnings on the map above before setting off!

3. Soak up some Dunmanus Bay views

As you make your way along the eastern side of the Sheep’s Head Peninsula, you’ll enjoy sweeping views over Dunmanus Bay and across to the rugged hills and headlands of the Mizen Peninsula.

This peaceful, winding stretch often clings to the hillside, revealing glimpses of old stone walls, scattered farmsteads, and the endless blue of the Atlantic below.

On a clear day, you can see as far as Mount Gabriel and beyond. There’s no stop along this section — just take it all in as you cruise along!

4. Stretch your legs at Dooneen Pier

Dooneen Pier is about a 15-minute drive from the Sheep’s Head Lighthouse car park. It stretches quietly into Dunmanus Bay, a subtle but striking reminder of the peninsula’s rich maritime heritage.

Originally built in the 1800s, the pier served as a vital landing point for coal and salt, essential supplies for the local fishing industry.

You’ll still see the remains of the old storehouse nearby, along with a concrete magazine. It’s well worth pausing here to take in the views and the history etched into the stone.

5. Step back in time at Dunlough Fort

The 1-hour drive from Dooneen Pier to Dunlough Castle takes you through the heart of the Mizen Peninsula, where narrow roads wind through open hillsides, bogland, and along weathered stone walls.

Along the way, you’ll pass quiet fields and catch distant glimpses of the Atlantic before arriving at a small car park near the trailhead. There’s an honesty box at the entrance, so bring cash (€3 per person).

Dunlough Fort (aka the Three Castles) was built in 1207 by Donagh O’Mahony. Positioned on a slender strip of land between a mountain lake and dramatic sea cliffs, it was crafted for both defence and seclusion.

The three towers were once linked by a stone wall that stretched from the lake’s edge to the cliffside. The O’Mahonys held it for over four centuries before it was taken by the Crown in the 1600s.

6. Lunch and a ramble at Mizen Head

Mizen Head is a 10-minute drive from Dunlough Castle and is home to one of Ireland’s most striking stretches of coastline, anchored by a signal station that has guided vessels since the early 20th century.

You’ll have worked up an appetite at this stage so grab a bite-to-eat from the cafe beside the visitor centre.

Inside the visitor centre, you’ll find stories of shipwrecks like the SS Stephen Whitney, which sank in 1847 and prompted the construction of Fastnet Lighthouse.

There’s also the tale of the 1908 rescue of 63 crew from the SS Trada, along with the introduction of fog signals in 1909. A narrow bridge, first built in 1910, leads you out to cliffs that rise dramatically above the ocean.

7. The brilliant Barleycove Beach

Barleycove Beach is a stunning sweep of sand just five minutes from Mizen, nestled between headlands and framed by rolling dunes.

It was created by a tsunami following the 1755 Lisbon Earthquake, when towering waves reshaped this quiet stretch of Cork’s coastline.

Now ranked among West Cork’s best beaches, Barleycove boasts soft golden sand and views stretching all the way to Brow Head.

Set within a Special Area of Conservation, the beach is surrounded by scenic walks, abundant wildlife, and one of the coast’s top seafood lunches at the beach hotel.

8. Wind and views at Brow Head

Brow Head is just 10 minutes from Barleycove and marks the true southernmost point of Ireland’s mainland.

Once a centre for copper mining and British military surveillance, today it’s a windswept headland offering sweeping views over Mizen, Cape Clear, and the vast Atlantic.

The 1804 signal tower still stands sentinel above the cliffs, with old miner’s cottages scattered across the slopes. You can drive to the ‘summit’, though the road is steep and narrow.

9. Altar Wedge Tomb

One of the final stops on this section of our Cork itinerary is the Altar Wedge Tomb, located about 20 minutes from Brow Head near the edge of Toormore Bay.

This is one of the oldest surviving man-made structures in West Cork. Dating back over 4,000 years, it’s a classic example of a late Stone Age wedge tomb.

Originally used to hold cremated remains, animal bones, and tools, it likely played a role in evolving rituals over many generations. During the Penal Laws, it later served as a hidden Mass site.

Its entrance faces Mizen Peak and may have been aligned with the setting sun during Samhain.

10. Schull

Continue on to Schull, just a 7-minute drive away. This harbour village sits at the foot of Mount Gabriel on the Mizen Peninsula. Small in size but big on scenery, it’s surrounded by some of the most dramatic landscapes in West Cork.

The harbour is dotted with boats, and the village is well-known for its sailing scene, fresh seafood, and even stargazing, thanks to its planetarium.

You can hike Mount Gabriel for sweeping views, catch a ferry to Cape Clear, or simply take your time exploring the village.

11. Ballydehob

Ballydehob is a quirky little village just 10 minutes from Schull, and it more than holds its own when it comes to charm and character. Its story is shaped by copper mining, famine, and a wave of bohemian artists who arrived in the 1960s.

These days, it’s a vibrant hub with a creative edge, known for its brightly painted buildings, lively arts scene, and a festival calendar that ranges from jazz and folk to vintage threshing weekends.

The old 12-arch railway bridge still stretches across the estuary, acting as a lasting reminder of the days when trains passed through.

12. Skibbereen for the evening

Skibbereen is a 15-minute drive from Ballydehob and it’s here that day 3 of this Cork itinerary comes to a close.

Here’s some advice on where to grab a bite-to-eat and a post-adventure-pint:

For food

• The Church Restaurant: It’s housed in a restored 19th-century church, this spot offers a striking setting with stained glass windows and soaring wooden ceilings.
• Kennedy Restaurant: Refined dining with local seafood, seasonal game, and a great breakfast menu served daily
• Wild Ways at Dillon’s Corner: Contemporary spot offering inventive mains like pan-fried hake and vegan tagine

For a drink

• The Corner Bar: Cosy pub with a traditional interior, open fire, snug back rooms, and regular live trad music alongside top-quality Guinness

Day 4: Baltimore, Lough Hyne and the West Cork coast

Day 4 of this Cork road trip sees you explore more of the coastline around Skibbereen. Now, if you don’t have the full day today and you’re heading home, just do the first 1/2.

If you have the full day, you’ll drive for a total of 2 hours, but it’ll be broken up with several walks along the way.

1. The Baltimore Beacon

The 1st stop of the day is Baltimore, a 20-minute drive from Skibbereen. Baltimore is a historic fishing village in West Cork, once sacked by Barbary pirates in 1631, with a past steeped in piracy, myth, and maritime lore.

Today, it’s a lively coastal hub and ferry port to Cape Clear and Sherkin Islands, famed for diving, sailing, and its dramatic white beacon.

Rising 50ft above the cliffs, the Baltimore Beacon is an iconic coastal marker built in 1849 after the 1798 Rebellion. Walk to it via a short steep climb from the car park or a scenic 1.64km (22 mins) stroll from Baltimore town

2. Views galore at Lough Hyne

The next stop is Lough Hyne – a 15-minute drive from Baltimore. I’m going to recommend that you tackle the steep, 3km Knockomagh Hill hike as outlined on my map above.

It takes around one hour and it offers mighty views out over Ireland’s first Marine Nature Reserve. The trail takes you up a quiet forest trail with plenty of good opportunities to soak up the views along the way.

3. Lunch with a view at the The Skibbereen Eagle

The Skibbereen Eagle in Tragumna is a cosy, old-style Irish pub just 15 minutes from Lough Hyne that’s the ideal spot for a post-hike feed!

Inside, it’s all dark wood, snug corners, and a relaxed, no-frills vibe. On sunny days, grab a seat out front and enjoy glorious sea views.

4. Let time stand still at Toe Head

The next stop on this Cork itinerary is one that tends to be missed by many. Although Toe Head is just 10 minutes from The Skibbereen Eagle, it feels like the edge of the world.

The drive in is narrow and winding, but once you reach the base of the old signal tower, the isolation really hits you.

It’s just you, the wind, and views that stretch from Castlehaven to the haunting Stags rocks offshore, like a ruined fortress lost at sea.

5. Knockdrum Stone Fort

Now, please read the warnings above before attempting to walk to Knockdrum Stone Fort (a 10-minute drive from Toe Head).

Knockdrum Stone Fort is a large stone ringfort perched near Castletownshend, with breath-taking views out over the sea.

Dating back to the Iron Age, its walls are 3 metres thick and nearly 30 metres wide. Inside, you’ll find the remains of a rectangular building, a souterrain (an underground passage), and ancient cup marks dotted around the walls.

While this place is impressive, it’s also dangerous to get to, as noted on the map above (if in doubt, avoid!).

6. Union Hall, Glandore and their surrounds

The final chunk of day 4 of this Cork itinerary contains plenty of options for you to consider. Some of the most notable attractions nearby are:

• Union Hall: A small, charming fishing village with a working harbour, scenic walks, and boat tours
• Glandore: A small, picturesque harbour village (enjoy food with a view at the Glandore Inn when the sun’s out)
• Drombeg Stone Circle: Bronze Age stone circle near Glandore with 17 stones, burial site, and sea views

7. This West Cork itinerary wraps up in Skibbereen

This Cork itinerary comes to an end in Skibbereen. As mentioned earlier, here are my go-tos in the town: 

For food

• The Church Restaurant: It’s housed in a restored 19th-century church, this spot offers a striking setting with stained glass windows and soaring wooden ceilings.
• Kennedy Restaurant: Refined dining with local seafood, seasonal game, and a great breakfast menu served daily
• Wild Ways at Dillon’s Corner: Contemporary spot offering inventive mains like pan-fried hake and vegan tagine

For a drink

• The Corner Bar: Cosy pub with a traditional interior, open fire, snug back rooms, and regular live trad music alongside top-quality Guinness

Itinerary 2: Cork City, Cobh, Kinsale and more

Take 30 seconds to throw your eyes over the map above, first, as it’ll give you a sense of where our second Cork itinerary will take you.

You’ll use Cork City as a base for nights 1 and 2 and Kinsale as a base for nights 3 and 4. Here’s where to stay:

• Kinsale: Lemon Leaf (great value in centre), White Lady Hotel (by the harbour) or Perryville House (boutique central stay)
• Cork City: The River Lee (excellent 4 star by the river) or The Dean (very quirky hotel by the train station)

Day 1: Cork City

There are endless things to do in Cork City regardless of when you visit. The map above gives you an adventure-packed 1-day itinerary that takes in:

• The English Market: Operating since 1788, this food market is packed with local produce, meats, fish and chatter
• Bishop Lucey Park: Built in the 1980s, this city park reveals a section of Cork’s medieval walls (near the gate)
• National Monument: Unveiled in 1906, it honours Irish patriots from 1798 to 1867
• Church of St. Anne: Built in 1722, it’s known for its red-and-white tower and bells visitors can ring themselves
• Elizabeth Fort: Built in 1601, this star-shaped fort was used by British forces until the early 20th century
• St Fin Barre’s Cathedral: Consecrated in 1870, it’s a French Gothic cathedral built on the site of Finbarr’s original monastery
• Cork City Gaol: Opened in 1824, this former prison museum shows tough 19th-century conditions through lifelike figures and audio

An evening in Cork City

Day 1 of this Cork itinerary promises plenty to look forward to, courtesy of Cork’s exceptional restaurants and its wide range of heritage pubs:

Where to eat

There are plenty of great restaurants in Cork City. Here are the ones I find myself returning to over and over again:

• Market Lane: A mix of Irish favourites and vibrant international dishes
• Elbow Lane: Wood-fired meats, bold global flavours, and house-brewed beers served in a stylish smokehouse
• The SpitJack: Rotisserie-focused dining with Irish produce and creative cocktails
• Jacobs on the Mall: Contemporary Irish and European dishes served in a former Turkish Baths

Live music and trad bars

There are some mighty pubs in Cork City, especially for those of you, like myself, that love a pub with a bit of history. Here are my go-tos:

• Mutton Lane (1787): Tucked down a dim alley with Civil War history etched into its walls and candlelight flickering off wood interior
• Costigan’s (1849): A timeless Victorian pub with a roaring fire, snug corners, and over 170 years of history behind the bar
• The Hi-B Bar (1920s): A quirky, no-phones-allowed bar with vintage décor and a charm that’s charmed locals for a century
• The Shelbourne (1895): A polished old pub that boasts Cork’s biggest whiskey selection and original snugs
• The Oval (Early 1900s): Built by Beamish Brewery with a rare oval ceiling and moody, candle-lit charm

Day 2: Blarney and Cobh

Day 2 of this Cork itinerary sees you leave the city and explore Blarney, first, followed by the nearby town of Cobh.

This day requires less than 1.5 hours of driving, depending on the traffic levels when you’re coming back into the city.

1. Blarney Castle

Stop 1 is Blarney Castle, a 25-minute drive from the city centre. Now, a note – it’s open from 9 and you’ll need 2 hours, so arrive early.

One of the most famous castles in Ireland, Blarney Castle was built in 1446 by Cormac Láidir MacCarthy, Lord of Muskerry, on the ruins of two earlier structures.

Over the centuries, Blarney Castle endured sieges, including one during the Irish Confederate Wars, and was eventually seized by Williamite forces. It passed through many hands before being bought by Sir James St John Jefferyes.

The castle and its grounds are one of the top attractions in Ireland, and rightly so – there’s a wealth of history to uncover here along with vast, finely manicured gardens.

2. Spike Island

Leave Blarney and take the 40-minute drive to Cobh. It’s from here that you’ll take the ferry to Spike Island (leave blarney at 11:10 at the latest).

Spike Island began as a 6th-century monastic site. In 1779, the British built a star fort later turned into a prison.

By the 1850s, it held over 2,000 convicts, making it the largest prison in the world. Known for brutal punishment cells and mass graves, its dark history earned it the name ‘Ireland’s Alcatraz’.

You’ll want to allow around 3.5 hours for this trip – this includes the short ferry over-and-back and then the tour. Grab some lunch from the cafe on the island.

3. The Titanic Experience

When you arrive back to the town, head for the Titanic Experience – a visit here is one of the most popular things to do in Cobh.

On the 11th of April 1912, the Titanic dropped anchor off Cobh, then known as Queenstown. From here, 123 passengers boarded by tender from the White Star Line office, which is now home to the Titanic Experience.

The museum includes original records, boarding passes, and the pier itself. Tours explore the lives of those who left Ireland that day, never to return.

4. Cobh Cathedral

Take the short but steep 10-minute walk up to see St Fin Barre’s Cathedral, next. This is one of Cork’s most impressive buildings and it features Cork limestone, red Cork marble, and vivid stained glass.

St Fin Barre’s was designed by William Burges and built between 1865 and 1870. Originally budgeted at £15,000, it cost nearly £100,000 to complete.

It remains a place of worship and music, with daily services, concerts and events, and a choral tradition over 700 years old.

5. The Deck of Cards

The famous Deck of Cards is a colourful row of houses in Cobh, set against St. Coleman’s Cathedral. Here’s where to get a look at them:

• West View Park (ground level view): Classic straight-on shot with the cathedral rising behind the colourful houses
• Top of West View (hill viewpoint): Look down the slope with the houses on your right and Cork Harbour in the distance
• Cannon O’Leary Place (rear angle): Capture the colourful backs of the houses with gardens and sea in the frame.
• Spy Hill (not recommended): Offers a high, dramatic angle but involves a potentially dangerous climb and is intrusive to residents

6. Back to Cork City

When you finish up in Cobh, take the 30-minute drive back to Cork City where you’ll spend the evening.

Where to eat

There are plenty of great restaurants in Cork City. Here are the ones I find myself returning to over and over again:

• Market Lane: A mix of Irish favourites and vibrant international dishes
• Elbow Lane: Wood-fired meats, bold global flavours, and house-brewed beers served in a stylish smokehouse
• The SpitJack: Rotisserie-focused dining with Irish produce and creative cocktails
• Jacobs on the Mall: Contemporary Irish and European dishes served in a former Turkish Baths

Live music and trad bars

There are some mighty pubs in Cork City, especially for those of you, like myself, that love a pub with a bit of history. Here are my go-tos:

• Mutton Lane (1787): Tucked down a dim alley with Civil War history etched into its walls and candlelight flickering off wood interior
• Costigan’s (1849): A timeless Victorian pub with a roaring fire, snug corners, and over 170 years of history behind the bar
• The Hi-B Bar (1920s): A quirky, no-phones-allowed bar with vintage décor and a charm that’s charmed locals for a century
• The Shelbourne (1895): A polished old pub that boasts Cork’s biggest whiskey selection and original snugs
• The Oval (Early 1900s): Built by Beamish Brewery with a rare oval ceiling and moody, candle-lit charm

Day 3: Kinsale

Day 3 of this Cork itinerary sees you pack your bags and head for Kinsale where you’ll spend 2 nights.

Lemon Leaf (great value in the town centre), White Lady Hotel (by the harbour) or Perryville House (boutique central stay) are all great accommodation options.

If you follow the itinerary outlined in my map above, you’ll tackle the best things to do in Kinsale, including:

• The Scilly Walk: Historic 2.5km path linking Kinsale to Summercove, with glorious harbour views
• Charles Fort: 17th-century star-shaped fort built to defend Kinsale Harbour
• Kinsale Harbour Cruise: 1-hour boat tour with views, stories, and local wildlife like dolphins and seabirds
• The Kinsale Meade Co. Tour: Ireland’s oldest working meadery, offering guided tours and tastings

Day 4: The West Cork coast

The final day of this Cork itinerary gives you a taste of a chunk of West Cork. Now, the intention with this day is to give you a very manageable route to follow.

If you’re only going to be in Cork once-in-a-blue-moon and you want to see as much of it as possible, you could follow the coast to Mizen, but keep in mind it’ll be a 4-hour round trip.

1. The Old Head of Kinsale

Once home to one of Ireland’s most scenic coastal trails, the Old Head of Kinsale is now largely restricted. A 2002 court ruling gave the private golf course full control, cutting off public access to the headland and lighthouse.

What remains is a 6km loop on narrow country roads with limited views (not worth doing, in my opinion). However, you can take the 20-minute drive from Kinsale, park up near the Lusitania Museum, and enjoy some coastal views along with a fine bit of history.

The museum is housed in a 200-year-old signal tower with sweeping rooftop views of land and sea. Inside, visitors are immersed in the powerful story of the RMS Lusitania’s tragic sinking in 1915.

2. Breath-taking beaches

When you leave the Old Head, you’ve your pick of superb beaches nearby. Garrylucas is just 10 minutes away, with Garretstown 3 minutes beyond that, and Howe Strand another 10. Here’s the quick lowdown:

• Garrylucas Beach: Wide, windswept, and great for kitesurfing. Backed by dunes, with views of Old Head
• Garretstown Beach: Surf spot with lifeguards in summer. Buzzing on fine days, with toilets and food trucks nearby
• Howe Strand: Narrow, tide-dependent beach tucked beneath cliffs

3. Kilbrittain

Kilbrittain (10-minute drive from Howe Strand) is a quiet corner of West Cork set between Kinsale and Clonakilty.

Known for its castle, estuary views, and scenic walking trails, it’s a place steeped in history with no shortage of surprises for those who take the time to explore. Here’s what to see-and-do:

• The Castle Walk: A short 4.3km loop past the village park and castle gates via quiet country roads
• Kilbrittain Castle: Still lived in, it’s one of Ireland’s oldest inhabited castles, dating back to around 1035
• Fin Whale Skeleton: An 18m whale that beached in 2009 (its full skeleton now stands in the village park)

4. Timoleague Friary

Timoleague Friary is the next stop on this Cork itinerary, and you’ll find it a 10-minute spin from Kilbrittain. The friary, perched above Courtmacsherry Bay, is West Cork’s largest medieval ruin.

Founded by Franciscans around 1300, it stands on the site of a 6th-century monastic settlement. Burned in 1642, its stone walls still whisper of Spanish trade, leper windows, and secret burials.

The friary once held the famed Book of Lismore and two chalices, now national treasures. Wander the cloisters, peer through weather-worn arches, and feel history underfoot.

5. Lunch at The Lifeboat in Courtmacsherry

You’ll find the Lifeboat Inn a 10-minute drive from the friary. Set on the waterfront in the peaceful fishing village of Courtmacsherry, The Lifeboat delivers far more than your typical gastropub.

Think seasonal menus built around West Cork’s finest producers, from rope-grown mussels and farmhouse cheeses to freshly-baked bread and views that’ll knock you off your chair!

If weather permits, grab a table in the garden, watch the boats drift by, and dive into food that’s proudly local and rooted in flavour.

6. Michael Collins House Museum

When you’ve had your fill, take the 20-minute drive to Clonakilty Town and park up. Clon is a vibrant West Cork town with deep roots in Ireland’s revolutionary past.

Founded in 1613, it blends Georgian charm, a musical soul, and a proud connection to Michael Collins. Here are some points-of-interest to check out:

• Michael Collins House Museum: Georgian townhouse museum on the life of Ireland’s revolutionary leader
• Model Railway Village: Miniature version of Clonakilty with trains chugging through tiny West Cork towns
• De Barra’s Folk Club: Intimate venue known for legendary gigs and a loyal music crowd (one of the best pubs in Ireland)
• Clonakilty Museum: Small but packed with artefacts from the town’s colourful past
• Church of the Immaculate Conception: Gothic Revival church dominating the skyline since 1880

7. Inchydoney Beach and then back to Kinsale

The last stop on this Cork itinerary takes you to Inchydoney Beach – arguably one of Ireland’s finest beaches, a handy 10-minute drive from the town.

A sweeping arc of soft golden sand, Inchydoney is split by a rocky headland where the Virgin Mary stands guard. Atlantic waves roll in steadily, washing the shore with rhythm and roar.

The water is Blue Flag clean, lifeguards watch in summer, and the surf tempts both first-timers and old pros. A surf school sits just off the beach, and a cliff-top hotel offers front-row views of it all.

When you finish up, you’re a 45-minute drive from Kinsale, where you’ll round off your Cork adventure.

Explore Ireland beyond Cork

 Now that you have a solid Cork itinerary to follow, it’s time to explore the rest of Ireland.

We published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries several years ago, and we’re adding to it and improving it constantly.

Or, you can browse by county by hopping into our County Hub. Cheers!