2 Best Sights in Ballycotton, County Cork

The trailhead of this invigorating walk is close to the pier in Ballycotton. Passing sandy beaches, a small stone bridge that crosses a stream, and wonderful animal and plant life, this trail also offers magnificent views across the bay, with rambling meadows and fragrant growth on land side. As the trails cut through a bird sanctuary visitors can linger on benches to enjoy the feathered company or just to breathe in those views. The trail ends at Ballyandreen Beach.

After Sirius, the first vessel to cross the Atlantic completely under steam, sank off Ballycotton Bay on a foggy night in the mid-19th century, the lighthouse was constructed in its wake. Tours starting at 10 am in season take in 360-degree panoramic views of the bay, as far as Kinsale Head. The 90-minute tour includes a visit to one of Ireland's rare black lighthouses and the recounting of legends that surround the local maritime community.