Perfect for those who would like to explore all the history and culture Cork has to offer.
3Days
This three-day itinerary is perfect for those who would like to explore all the history and culture Cork has to offer.
This carefully curated itinerary offers a rich experience of Cork’s historic houses, gardens, and cultural landmarks. Discover the stories and landscapes that shape the region’s heritage.
Please find the full itinerary below to assist in planning your visit.
Your starting point is Doneraile Court which towers majestically over the glorious Doneraile Park, a 160-hectare landscaped parkland and wildlife estate.
The house was built by the St Leger family around 1645 on the site of a ruined castle.
From there, travel around 7kms to Annes Grove which is an historic estate located near Castletownroche, Co. Cork.
It was the home of the Annesley family from the 1600s until 2015 when it was gifted to the Irish state and entered the care of the Office of Public Works.
Then head south to Carrigtwohill, to one of the finest examples of an Irish tower-house, the newly refurbished Barryscourt Castle was built between 1392 and 1420 during the reign of 7th Lord Barry, John Ciotach Barry.
From 1420 onwards Barryscourt castle was the main seat for the next 6 Lords Barrymore.
After visiting Barryscourt Castle, make the short 3.5km trip to the arboretum and gardens on Fota Island. It is just 16 kilometres from Cork city centre and is an essential destination for anyone interested in horticulture.
The arboretum extends over 11 hectares and contains one of the finest collections of rare, tender trees and shrubs grown outdoors in Europe.
Next up we are travelling 25km south, to one of the country’s largest military installations, Charles Fort. It has been part of some of the most momentous events of Irish history.
During the Williamite Wars, for example, it withstood a 13-day siege before it fell.
Head 34 km west to the serene landscape of County Cork, near Clonakilty, lies the birthplace of Michael Collins, a key figure in the Irish struggle for independence.
It was here that Collins spent his formative years before moving to London, where he became involved in radical Irish nationalist politics.
From there, we continue west to Ilnacullin which is an island garden of diminutive size and rare beauty.
Nestled in the sheltered coastal harbour at Glengarriff in Bantry Bay, the gardens display a wealth of unique horticultural and architectural gems.
Small ferry boats and 60-seater waterbuses take visitors to Ilnacullin from Glengariff regularly.
Unlimited access to Ireland’s past
