Cork is dotted with working market towns and traditional villages, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean. It has an ancient maritime tradition and Kinsale, Bantry, Garretstown, Baltimore and Skibbereen are just some of the most well-known harbours, perfect for sailing self-catering holidays.
Discover the peaceful beauty of Sheep’s Head Peninsula, the Beara Peninsula and the Mizen Peninsula in West Cork. You will fall in love with these three peninsulas of outstanding natural beauty. Enjoy splendid coastal routes winding roads through the mountains, and the unrivalled vistas of mountain lakes, waterfalls, fast-running rivers, prehistoric monuments, ancient castles and Christian settlements and forts.
During summer months the West Cork town of Bantry becomes one of the most important cultural festival destinations in Ireland with the West Cork Chamber Music Festival in late June to early July. The West Cork Literary Festival which takes place mid-July and the Masters of Tradition Festival which normally takes place towards the end of August.
Cork is renowned for great cuisine and the ‘Slow Food’ movement, the county is dotted with excellent restaurants, cafes, and cookery schools. There are terrific artisan food markets, perfect for those staying in our self-catering holiday cottages in Cork who love to cook with local produce.
Another annual festival is the Taste of West Cork Food Festival, a ten-day event in September. The festival celebrates West Cork’s unique food culture and the people and land that produce that food. A pure joy to the senses, the festival is a culinary adventure through the dramatic backdrop of 41 local towns, villages and 8 islands; stretching from the sandy beaches of Inchydoney to the splintered landscape of the Beara Peninsula and reaching out into the Wild Atlantic Ocean through the scattered islands off Roaringwater Bay.
Cork City is best explored on foot, giving you plenty of opportunity to appreciate the diverse architectural influences and discover its many lovely boutiques, the famous English Market, excellent restaurants, and a variety of pubs. Explore the vibrant city centre with its historic streets, and lively markets or stroll through the beautiful UCC campus and visit the Lewis Glucksman Gallery.
Close by there are a wide variety of heritage sites, stately homes, and castles to visit including Blarney Castle, Bantry House and Garnish Island. Cork has its international airport, and a ferry port making it extremely accessible as a holiday destination in Ireland.
Explore breathtaking vistas and a thriving past whilst staying in one of our self-catering vacation rentals which are conveniently dispersed around the country and will give you a convenient home base from which to explore our stunning island.
Unravel a land of legends and stories, from ancient to modern day – a country brimming with culture, attractions, festivals, and fun. We can assist you in your journey and give you essential travel tips so you can create a memorable self-catering holiday in Ireland!
