24 Hours in West Cork

Myths, legends and stunning scenery: the West of Ireland is renowned for its magical quality and West Cork is definitely no exception. Situated in the southwest corner of the ‘rebel county’, West Cork is the humble abode of remarkable scenery, incredible beaches and dramatic cliff views. While it might not seem like a swift day trip to West Cork is enough time to embrace all this area has to offer; our guide will help you tick off just some of the places worth exploring during your time there.

Where To Stay

Conveniently located within an hour from West Cork, Clayton Hotel Silver Springs is the ideal base to explore both West Cork and Cork City, with free parking onsite and comfortable rooms to return to after your day.

Ready to explore just some of what the west of Ireland’s second county has to offer? These are the must-see spots during your 24 hours in West Cork.

Kickstart with an Energising Breakfast

First things first: Breakfast. With a busy day trip ahead, it’s important to fuel up! Start your action-packed day with a Vitality Breakfast and choose from a full Irish breakfast, fresh fruit, yoghurts, pastries and much more. Once breakfast is finish, pack up the car and get ready to head West!

Visit Mizen Head Peninsula

About a one-hour drive from Baltimore is Mizen Head: Ireland’s south-westerly point and home to some of the most spellbinding coastal scenery in the country.

Mizen Head is located on the Mizen Peninsula and is a key discovery point along the Wild Atlantic Way. Cross the iconic bridge and immerse yourself in the one-of-a-kind sea cliff views, check out the fascinating exhibition in the signal station visitor centre and of course, take some time to embrace your surroundings – and snap a few pictures for the photo album! If you want to make the most of your time there, take a visit to Barley Cove; just one of the most beautiful beaches in West Cork.

Lunch in the Riverside Café and Restaurant, Skibbereen

Less than an hour’s drive from Mizen Peninsula is Skibbereen: a bustling town with plenty of charm, and a great place to sit back, relax and refresh yourself with a quality Irish meal.

Situated on North Street in Skibbereen is Riverside Café and Restaurant; a charming café that offers a wide array of dishes with a special Irish twist. Choose to sit inside the homely café or take a seat outside on the outside terrace and watch over the river Ilen. If you happen to be visiting on a Saturday – be sure to take a quick trip to the Saturday Farmers Market and check out the local food, craft and plant producers.

Baltimore

Located right by the Wild Atlantic Way, make your way along the coast to the enchanting village of Baltimore: the ideal base for exploring all that the southwest of our lovely island has to offer. Dive right into the water activities such as kayaking or snorkeling. If you prefer to stay on solid ground, immerse yourself in the rugged landscape of the West with breathtaking walking trails along the coast.

Feeling peckish? The award-winning Glebe Café and Restaurant is situated in the midst of the beautiful Glebe Gardens and is an idyllic spot for a mid-morning cup of coffee and a snack.

Whale Watching Tour, Baltimore Harbour

When you think of Ireland, you may not think of vast sea life but Whale Watch West Cork offer a special whale and dolphin watching experience that is a must for marine lovers!

Jet off from Baltimore Harbour, and hop on to Whale Watch West Cork’s well-equipped catamaran: also known as the ‘Voyager’. Wrap up warm and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seals, minke whales and even basking sharks. The tour often tries to take a quick stop on North Harbour on Cape Clear Island: the most southerly inhabited island in Ireland where the locals are all Irish speaking.

Dinner in the Church Restaurant, Skibbereen

Finish your day of adventure back in Skibbereen in the Church Restaurant. Just a 15-minute drive from Baltimore, this restaurant was once a Methodist Church and as a result; is steeped in history.

Serving a variety of locally sourced produce, the Church restaurant was carefully converted and restored into a restaurant in the early 2000s and still retains the characteristic high wooden ceilings and stained-glass windows.

Tip: Discover more things to see and do in Cork like Cork Water Sports, Day Trips less than an hour from Cork and more on our blog.

4 Star Hotel in Cork

accessible hotel rooms cork

Why not complete your 24 hours in West Cork with a stay in Cork at Clayton Hotel Silver Springs. Located in luscious private grounds and just 3kms from Cork City Centre, a stay at Clayton Hotel Silver Springs means you can explore both West Cork and Cork City. Discover current hotel offers and book your getaway.

executive hotel room cork

Start planning your trip to Cork and book your perfect break at Clayton Hotel Silver Springs.

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