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County Cork, IrelandNature & adventure

Our most recommended County Cork, Ireland Nature & adventure

County Cork: Whale & Dolphin Watching Boat Trip

1. County Cork: Whale & Dolphin Watching Boat Trip

Enjoy seascapes and the rugged Irish coastline as you cruise through the water spotting marine animals on this adventurous boat excursion. Catch sight of sunfish and even basking sharks with the help of a local skipper. Set off from the North Pier of Baltimore and head out to see offshore islands and marine wildlife. Walk around the deck for a panoramic experience. Sit to watch the wildlife in comfort and shield yourself from the wind when it's cooler. Learn about the wildlife from your expert guide.

Ireland: 5-Day Escape to the Southwest Tour

2. Ireland: 5-Day Escape to the Southwest Tour

Discover the scenic splendor of southwest Ireland on a comprehensive 5-day tour of The Burren, the Dingle Peninsula, and the fabled Ring of Kerry. Stop at historic castles and monasteries, and wander the colorful fishing villages to sample fresh seafood. Enjoy dramatic views from the Cliffs of Moher, and stroll along the vast stretch of Inch Beach watching the local surfers. Transportation is by small minicoach, with accommodation in quaint bed and breakfast guesthouses for a more intimate experience. Day 1: Depart Dublin and head west through the farmland and peat bogs of Kildare and Offally counties. Stop at Locke’s Distillery, reputedly the oldest legal distillery in the world. Sample the local whiskey to experience the true spirit of Ireland. Continue west to the mighty Shannon River, and vist the early Christian site of Clonmacnoise. Admire its collection of churches, stone crosses, and round towers. After an afternoon stop in a traditional pub in one of the attractive villages, travel to Galway City to check into your base for the night. This lively student town has no shortage of good pubs and restaurants to enjoy in the evening. Day 2: From Galway City it’s only a short drive along the coast to The Burren, one of Ireland’s great natural treasures. Marvel at the limestone pavements, barren hills, and rare flora. See Christian settlements and ancient stone monuments. You will spend most of the morning exploring this unique area, stopping in Kilfenora for lunch. Known as the “Town of the Crosses,” there will also be time to visit the old cathedral before driving to the Cliffs of Moher. Marvel at this natural beauty, where the cliffs drop almost 700 feet into crashing Atlantic Ocean waves. Take a walk along one of the cliff top trails, and watch the seabirds at work. Alternatively, visit the award-winning environmental exhibition to learn about the region’s ecology. Then, travel south through County Clare, passing the famous golf course and beach at Lahinch to catch the ferry across the Shannon Estuary and into County Kerry. Go to the beautiful lakeside town of Killarney, your base for the next 3 nights. The pubs here are great for food and most have live music in the evenings. Day 3 Today, you will explore the Dingle Peninsula, one of the most scenic parts of Ireland. Your first stop in this heartland of Gaelic culture will be Inch Beach, a vast expanse of sand facing the Atlantic Ocean popular with surfers. From here, increasingly narrow roads lead onto the peninsula itself, through the town of Dingle and out to Slea Head. This is an area of ancient forts and dwellings that date back thousands of years. Visit some of the best examples along the way. Enjoy views of the Blasket Islands as they rise dramatically from the sea. Marvel at the mountains of the famous Ring of Kerry to your south. Weather permitting, time will be allotted for a walk on the beach or along the cliff tops. Learn why the area is important in Gaelic literature. Then, head back to Dingle town with its brightly colored buildings and busy harbor. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure, before returning to Killarney. If the weather is good you could enjoy an evening walk in Killarney National Park, just on the edge of town. Day 4: Today, you will take one of the world’s classic routes, the 100-mile Ring of Kerry. Depart Killarney and enjoy the views to Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain. Join the coast road through Glenbeigh and Kells to Cahersiveen. Possible stops along the way include Daniel O’Connell’s birthplace, and the ring fort of Cahersiveen. Go to the little fishing village of Portmagee for a lunch of local seafood. Alternatively, cross to the island of Valencia and visit the Skellig Experience to learn about the small community of monks who once lived on the nearby rock island of Skellig Michael. In the afternoon, stop in picturesque Waterville, a favourite holiday destination for Charlie Chaplin. Stop again at the top of the Coonmakista Pass for one of the best views in Ireland. From here, the road drops down to sea level, where you will visit Derrynane House, the family home of Daniel O’Connell. You can stroll in the gardens and down to the beach, as well as look inside the house itself. Continue around the Ring, stopping at Moll’s Gap and Ladies View. There will also be time for a short walk to the Torc Waterfall before returning to Killarney. Day 5: The final day of your tour heads east through the mountains of West Cork and the market town of Macroom. Then, drive along the Lee Valley to Blarney Castle. Visit the castle and take one of the woodland walks to the mystical Rock Close. Explore the village of Blarney, stopping for lunch and a bit of shopping. There may even be time to kiss the famous Blarney Stone, although in peak season it can be very busy. In the afternoon, head to the Rock of Cashel to see the medieval monastery complex high above the town. Finally, go to Kilkenny, a bustling city with a fine castle and park, as well as some lovely riverside walks. Visit the National Craft Centre, or just hang out in one of the pubs for a last Guinness. Hit the road again for the final leg of your journey, arriving back in Dublin at approximately 19:30.

Cork: Fastnet Rock Lighthouse and Cape Clear Island Tour

3. Cork: Fastnet Rock Lighthouse and Cape Clear Island Tour

Take the ferry from Baltimore or Schull and cross the beautiful waters of Roaring Water Bay. Arriving at the north harbor on Cape Clear Island, spend some free time exploring this Gaeltacht Island, learning about the island’s culture, and the island life, including old traditions and traditional farming. Discover the island’s ancient standing stones, Napoleonic Tower, Dún an Óir Castle, 12th-century church and visit the memorial on the Island to the 1979 Fastnet Yacht Race Disaster. Spend some time exploring the island and its walking trails, stop at the spectacular lookout points, and spot the Fastnet Rock Lighthouse in the distance. Be sure to enjoy some fresh island produce during lunch at one of the island’s bars and restaurants. After lunch, re-board the ferry and sit back as the experienced captain takes you further into the real Wild Atlantic Way. You might even catch a glimpse of whales and dolphins in the water. As you circumnavigate the tallest and widest rock lighthouse in Ireland and the UK, learn its history and importance from the onboard audio system. Hear about the “Teardrop” of Ireland, the last glimpse of the country that the immigrant ships saw before they headed over the horizon to the New World - America. Once Fastnet Rock has been circled twice (so that all passengers can get the perfect photo), head for home and enjoy the spectacular scenery until reaching the final port.

Baltimore Harbor: Sunset Cruise to Fastnet Rock Lighthouse

4. Baltimore Harbor: Sunset Cruise to Fastnet Rock Lighthouse

Embark on a cruise to the Fastnet Rock lighthouse from Baltimore Harbor. Pass by Sherkin island and circumnavigate the Fastnet Rock. Look for local marine life as you venture into the open ocean aboard the Wave Chieftain, a fully licensed vessel.  Meet at Baltimore pier for a short safety briefing prior to your departure. Venture out of the harbor and snap pictures of the white-painted Baltimore Beacon. Journey along the southwest coast passing Sherkin island and the remains of the Franciscan Friary of Sherkin Abbey.  Sail by Gascanane Sound and Cape Clear as you keep a lookout for whales, dolphins, seals, and aquatic birds. Go around Fastnet Lighthouse and get pictures from every angle. Return to your starting point at Baltimore pier. 

Killarney: Guided Tour with Afternoon Tea

5. Killarney: Guided Tour with Afternoon Tea

Begin your tour with a lively jaunt through the bustling streets of Killarney Town, bursting with scenes of colour and charm before entering the quiet and peaceful surroundings of the picturesque Killarney National Park. Enjoy views of the magnificent MacGillycuddy Reeks, the highest mountain peaks in Ireland, witness the country’s last remaining herd of majestic Red Deer, and take in the unique sights and sounds of the Oak and Yew Woodland, as you learn about the history of the Park and how it came to be. Journey on towards Ross Castle and its Tower Keep on the edge of Lough Lein and be spellbound by spectacular views along the way. Once the ancestral home of the O’Donoghue Clan, you will be enchanted by the striking beauty of the Castle as you listen to your Jarvey Guide unfold its history with tales of woe and warship as well as the ancient prophecy and legends of the fortress. Take a quick jaunt back through the leafy green suburbs of Killarney’s Ross Road and back into the outskirts of the Town before disembarking from your journey at the Great Southern, Killarney’s Premier Historic Hotel and the perfect place to end the most memorable tour. Relax and rewind in the splendour of the spacious Grand Foyer where High Tea has been served since Victorian times. Relish in a selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked fruit or plain scones with clotted cream and jam, as well as a selection of pastries and banana bread, and of course, freshly brewed tea or coffee, complimented by a refreshing glass of prosecco. Children’s option also available. Please notify us of any dietary requirements.

Cliffs of Moher and Blarney 2-Day Tour from Dublin

6. Cliffs of Moher and Blarney 2-Day Tour from Dublin

Experience the dramatic landscapes of the southwest of Ireland on a 2-day budget tour to the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, and more. Kiss the famous Blarney Stone, enjoy panoramic views across the Atlantic Ocean, and stay in the historic city of Cork to enjoy the local life up-close. Day 1: Dublin - Rock of Cashel - Blarney - Cork Depart Dublin at 08:00 for a relaxing drive through scenic County Cork. The first stop will be the world famous Rock of Cashel. One of Ireland's most evocative sites, you can stroll in the footsteps of St. Patrick flanked by ruins, Celtic crosses and round towers and feel the soul of Ireland. The Rock of Cashel was the traditional seat of the Kings of Munster until they donated the complex to the Catholic Church almost 1,000 years ago for use as a cathedral. The site is one of the best examples of medieval architecture in Europe. The next stop is Ireland's second city, Cork. Here there is time to visit the English Markets recently visited by Queen Elizabeth II, that offer a wide range of local produce from artisan meats and cheeses and all that is good about Irish fine fare. This is an ideal place to enjoy lunch. In the afternoon you will go to the quaint town of Blarney to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone (optional) at the medieval stronghold of Blarney Castle. Learn the story behind the tradition as you explore the castle’s dungeons, caves and hidden bedrooms. Return to Cork, where you will spend the night. Day 2: Cork - Burren - Cliffs of Moher - Dublin Start the day with a drive through the beautiful Golden Vale, home to some of the best farm land in Ireland. Stop in Limerick to see the River Shannon and get some fine photos of King John's Castle. Continue west to County Clare, enjoying views of the wild Atlantic Ocean as you drive along the West Coast. Marvel at beautiful beaches of golden sand, looking out for dolphins and whales. Admire the lunar landscape of The Burren, where Alpine, Arctic and Mediterranean flowers grow side-by-side. Hear inspiring tales of how the Irish overcame the horrors of the Great Potato Famine of 1845-49, when over 1 million Irish fled to all 4 corners of the earth to escape. Upon arrival at the Cliffs of Moher, gaze in awe at the sheer majesty of the cliffs and crashing waves. See why world surf champ, Kelly Slater, came here for the award-winning surf movie “Wave Riders.” En route back to Dublin, enjoy a short photo stop at the 15th-century tower house of Bunratty Castle.

From Cork: Guided Full-Day West Cork to Mizen Head Tour

7. From Cork: Guided Full-Day West Cork to Mizen Head Tour

Immerse yourself in Irish culture on this day trip filled with fantastic photo opportunities. Starting in the historic city of Cork, travel by coach to Ireland’s most southwesterly point and view the dramatic cliff scenery of Mizen Head. As you drive through picturesque villages and towns, expect to see some awe-inspiring scenery as Ireland shows off its spectacular landscape. From the meeting point in Cork, travel first to Gougane Barra, home to Ireland's oldest National Forest Park and famous for St. Finbarr's Oratory, its stunning 19th-century church. Enjoy panoramic views of where the River Lee rises. Then, wander through Bantry, one of West Cork's most vibrant market towns, and do some shopping or sit down to a traditional cup of Irish tea and perhaps a scone. The next part of the journey takes you to Mizen Head, Ireland’s most southwesterly point — the edge of Europe and a signature key discovery point on the Wild Atlantic Way. Admire the cliffs of Mizen Head that rise high above the Atlantic Ocean, where the currents meet and the waves from the Atlantic crash into land. Before returning to Cork city, discover Clonakilty, an iconic Irish town. Visit a museum, an Irish pub for a pint of Murphy's, or simply wander the colorful streets. You'll return to the city of Cork in the evening, where you'll be dropped off at the original meeting point.

Rail Tour from Dublin: 6 Days All of Ireland

8. Rail Tour from Dublin: 6 Days All of Ireland

Day 1 Check in Dublin Heuston Station (Customer Service Desk) for 7:00 departure of InterCity train to Cork (breakfast available). We visit Blarney Castle, the Queenstown Story at Cobh, then train to Killarney for two nights B & B with en-suite facilities. Day 2 10.00 depart Killarney on Ring of Kerry tour. We have a wonderful day viewing some of Ireland’s most spectacular scenery, including Dingle Bay. We also see the Macgillicuddy Reeks, Ireland's highest mountain Carrantuohill, Moll's Gap, Ladies View and the world famous Lakes of Killarney. Overnight in Killarney. Day 3 07.30 transfer from Killarney to Limerick, to join the Cliffs of Moher Tour, visit Bunratty Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Galway Bay, overnight Galway City in 3 star Hotel (2 nights). Day 4 Get the ferry to Inis Mor and explore the largest of the Aran Islands. After lunch in Kilronan, enjoy a tour of the ancient fort Dun Aengus, admiring its sharp cliffs and dramatic seascapes. Day 5 10.00 depart Galway for tour of Connemara, including Kylemore Abbey after which we depart Galway by train, arriving Dublin Heuston 20.45 transfer by tram to three star hotel for two nights (room only). Day 6 Check in Dublin Connolly Station at 07.10 departure for the Giants Causeway tour. At Belfast we join our tour and head to the famous Antrim Coast Road crossing the lovely Glens of Antrim en route to Ballycastle and the Carrick-a-rede* rope bridge (Mid March - October only. Glimpse the Scottish coast on a clear day. We continue to the stunning Giant's Causeway next, seeing Dunluce Castle (photo stop only). We return to Belfast and our train to Dublin arriving at Connolly station at 22:20 for second night in three star hotel. Depart Monday/Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday (March to October only) * Price is per person sharing Single Room Supplement applies

Cork: Cape Clear Island Tour

9. Cork: Cape Clear Island Tour

Take the ferry from Baltimore or Schull Harbour and cross the beautiful waters of Roaring Water Bay. Feel the fresh sea air against your face on a spectacular journey through some of Carbery’s Hundred Isles, some of which are inhabited. Scan the spectacular scenery and look out for whales and dolphins. Cape Clear or Cléire is the largest of these Islands and lies 6 miles from the mainland along the Wild Atlantic Way. With a population of 130 people, Cape Clear is Ireland’s most southerly inhabited island and is one of the few Gaeltacht speaking (Irish speaking) islands in the country. This wild and romantic Island offers visitors an insight into a way of life that has long since disappeared from most of Ireland. Arrive in the wonderful north harbor on Cape Clear Island and spend some free time exploring the island on your own. Wander the walking trails, enjoy the spectacular lookout points and spot the 159-feet tall Fastnet Rock Lighthouse in the distance. Enjoy some fresh island produce during lunch at one of the island’s bars and restaurants before heading back.

From Dublin: 3-Day Cork, Ring of Kerry & the Cliffs of Moher

10. From Dublin: 3-Day Cork, Ring of Kerry & the Cliffs of Moher

Day 1 Check in Dublin Heuston (Customer Service Desk) for 07:00 departure of InterCity train (breakfast available) to Cork. Transfer by road to Blarney Castle and kiss the famous stone. After time for lunch and shopping and a flavor of Cork City, visit Cobh Heritage Centre, home of the "Queenstown Story," where the Titanic made its last port of call, and from where 3 million Irish people emigrated. Depart Cobh by train to Killarney, where you will be taken to your bed & breakfast accommodation, with en-suite facilities. There are numerous restaurants in Killarney, as well as traditional pubs-many with live traditional Irish music. Day 2 Embark on the famous Ring of Kerry tour, which is a largely coastal drive around the Iveragh Peninsula, with lots of stunning mountain and coastal scenery, including the famous Lakes of Killarney. After the day's touring, the evening is free in Killarney. Day 3 Leave Killarney for Limerick, to join the Cliffs of Moher tour. Take a short city tour of Limerick, and then visit Bunratty Castle, before lunch at a traditional pub. You will have plenty of time to see the majestic Cliffs of Moher, before taking the coastal route around Galway Bay, with stops for photos. Return to Dublin by InterCity train, arriving at 20:45. * Prices are per person sharing Single Room Supplement applies

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Overall rating

4.3 / 5

based on 155 reviews

Our guides were excellent Brian and Paddy. They were very informative. I learned so much about the Irish History. Pro's: Pro's great way to see most of the country and learn about the history from a professional. Everything was included as far as tickets, hotels and breakfast. I enjoyed being with other travelers and we made lasting friendships. Cons: We are on a schedule and so could not spend as much time as we wanted at some of the sights and venues. Lunch place was always predetermined so you were stuck going only to their choice. Most places were pretty good by average cost of the meals were 40-50 Euros per couple. It would have been nice to have a day off in the middle to rest a bit. Overall it was a great way to see the country for the first time.

The tour was well organized- our guides met us every step of the way and ensured comfort and safety. The planned days went smoothly. It can be hard to be on the bus when you would like to stop for more photos! Reserved first class train seats were appreciated. The chosen hotels were nice, clean, comfortable and well located. The food was good. We really enjoyed the other travelers in our group. This is a nice way to see Ireland for the first time.

We had such a good time! We had 3 different guides, Brian jj and John. JJ was the best and was very funny! The b&b was the only downside of the whole two days!

Great outing Jerry our Captain went the extra mile to give us the best chances of spotting wildlife. Tranquil experience out in the open sea in Safe hands.

My daughter and friends we’re traveling for her 21st birthday. I booked this excursion for them. They loved it!