Getting Oriented
- Cork City. Cork City is Ireland's second-largest city and, despite the fact that it is significantly less populated than the Capital, the city's frequent festivals and vibrant social scene bring an unquenchable energy throughout its grand Georgian parades and narrow medieval lanes at any time of year. The collection of pubs, restaurants, museums, and galleries reflect Cork's cultural revival while Blarney Castle and its famous kissing stone on the northern rim of the city draws the crowds.
- Cobh. This wide expanse of sea is bordered by the botanical gardens and parkland of Fota Island and the historic transatlantic port of Cobh where the RMS Titanic made its final, tragic departure.
- Midleton. A lively market town domintaed by its distillery.
- Ballycotton. A gentle coastal haven with a fascinating maritime history and easy access to East Cork's best beaches and innumerable attractions.
- Shanagarry. A small village famous for Ballmaloe Cookery School and Shanagarry Potters.
- Kinsale. This historic small town on a picturesque harbor has a reputation for fine dining and attracts visitors year-round.
- Clonakility and Nearby. Hometown of statesman Michael Collins and the gateway to West Cork, this picture-book pretty market town has charming hand-painted shop fronts and a growing reputation for crafts and artisan food.
- Skibbereen. A practical hub for West Cork's scenic coast, Skib's Saturday market is a must in summer, while its Heritage Centre will put Ireland's Great Famine of the mid-19th century in perspective.
- Schull. This small fishing village gives it the essence of West Cork flavor, with the stunning Mizen Head Peninsula as a playground.
- Bantry. This pretty market town that lies in the shadows of the Caha Mountains at the head of Bantry Bay is close to the hauntingly beautiful Gougane Barra.
- Castletownbere. Home of famous McCarthy's Bar and an ideal place to explore the delights of the stunning Beara Peninsula.
- Glengarriff. A small village with an island-studded harbor, its subtropical climate and sheltered location give rise to lush vegetation.
