Scenic wedding venue with lush gardens at Fernhill House Hotel, ideal for family gatherings.

Family enjoying gardens at Fernhill House Hotel, with vibrant flowers and bright skies.

Top things to do in West Cork

West Cork is one of the most scenic and unspoilt parts of Ireland, known for its coastal drives, colourful towns, local food, music and outdoor experiences. From whale watching and island trips to historic sites, beaches and gardens, there is plenty to discover during your stay at Fernhill Hotel & Estate.

Scenic coastal view with lush greenery and charming waterside buildings in Ireland.

Family exploring a stone circle in lush countryside.

Family enjoying a scenic view from a bridge over a rocky coastal gorge.

Discover the Beauty of West Cork

Located along the Wild Atlantic Way, Clonakilty is an ideal base for exploring West Cork. The town is known for its award winning food scene, traditional music, independent shops and nearby Blue Flag beaches, all surrounded by beautiful countryside and coastline.

Visit Mizen Head

At the very edge of the Wild Atlantic Way, Mizen Head is one of the most popular visitor attractions in West Cork. Walk across the dramatic bridge, take in the Atlantic Ocean views and explore the visitor centre while learning about the history of this rugged coastline.

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A dolphin is swimming just beneath the surface of clear blue ocean water, creating a splash as it rises toward the surface.

Go Whale Watching in West Cork

West Cork is one of the best places in Ireland for whale and dolphin watching. Boat tours operate seasonally from nearby coastal towns including Courtmacsherry offering the chance to spot humpback whales, dolphins, basking sharks and other marine wildlife along the Atlantic coast.

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Scenic coastal view with a boat cruising through a calm bay under clear blue skies.

Explore Cape Clear and Sherkin Island

Take a boat trip from Baltimore, Schull or Glengarriff and discover the beauty of West Cork’s islands. Cape Clear Island is Ireland’s southernmost inhabited island and is known for its walking trails, birdlife and traditional Irish culture. Sherkin Island offers beautiful beaches, quiet scenery and a relaxed pace of life.

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Colourful street with shops and bunting on a sunny day.

Discover the Story of Michael Collins

West Cork has strong connections to Irish revolutionary leader Michael Collins. Visit his birthplace at Woodfield near Clonakilty, explore the Michael Collins House Museum in the town centre, or visit the historic site at Beal na Bláth.

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Family exploring distillery with copper vats at Fernhill House Hotel.

Visit Clonakilty Distillery

Take a guided tour of Clonakilty Distillery and discover the story behind this award winning West Cork whiskey and gin producer. Learn about the distilling process before enjoying a tasting experience overlooking the harbour.

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A colourful yellow ice cream and coffee shop with pink accents, exuding a welcoming charm.

Experience the Clonakilty Blackpudding Visitor Centre

One of West Cork’s best known food producers, Clonakilty Blackpudding offers an interactive visitor experience where you can learn about the history of the famous black pudding and the family business behind it.

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Family exploring lush gardens of Fernhill House Hotel, trimmed hedges, and blooming wisteria.

Explore Bantry House and Gardens

Overlooking Bantry Bay, Bantry House is one of Ireland’s great historic houses. Explore the elegant interiors, terraces and beautifully landscaped gardens with stunning coastal views.

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A serene lakeside landscape with lush greenery and distant mountains under a blue sky.

Visit Garnish Island

Garnish Island is famous for its unique gardens and subtropical planting, made possible by the mild Gulf Stream climate. Accessible by boat from Glengarriff, the island is home to beautiful walks, Italian style gardens and resident seal colonies.

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A couple explores an ancient stone circle amidst rolling green hills under a blue sky in the countryside.

Discover Drombeg Stone Circle

Located near the village of Glandore is Drombeg Stone Circle. It is one of the most impressive ancient stone circles in Ireland. Set within peaceful countryside close to the coast, it offers visitors a glimpse into Ireland’s early history and archaeology.

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Aerial view of a family strolling along a sandy beach by the ocean waves.

Enjoy West Cork Beaches

West Cork is home to some of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches, perfect for walking, swimming, surfing or simply relaxing by the sea. Inchydoney Beach is one of the most popular nearby beaches and is known for its long sandy stretches and Blue Flag status.
Other beautiful beaches in West Cork include Long Strand, The Warren, Barleycove and Tragumna.

A couple kisses under string lights, surrounded by family holding sparklers at Fernhill House Hotel.

Experience Traditional Irish Music in Clonakilty

Clonakilty has a lively music scene throughout the year, with traditional Irish music sessions taking place in many local pubs like the well-known De Barras Bar and more. From local trad musicians to nationally recognised performers, music is part of the atmosphere and culture of the town.

Coastal golf course with a lighthouse overlooking the sea.

Scenic view of Fernhill House Hotel surrounded by lush gardens and tranquil pond.

Golf in West Cork

West Cork is home to several excellent golf courses with spectacular coastal and countryside views.

Clonakilty Golf Club is located less than 5km from Clonakilty town centre and welcomes green fee visitors throughout the year.

Old Head Golf Links is one of Ireland’s most famous golf courses, set on a dramatic headland stretching out into the Atlantic Ocean with breathtaking cliffside views.

Preferential green fee rates are available at Clonakilty Golf Club and Bandon Golf Club. Please enquire at reception for more details.

Attractions

Explore West Cork from Fernhill

Whether you are planning scenic drives along the Wild Atlantic Way, exploring beaches and islands, discovering local food producers or enjoying traditional Irish music, West Cork offers something for every visitor.

Our team at Fernhill Hotel & Estate will be happy to recommend local attractions, walking routes, restaurants and hidden gems during your stay.

See what our guests love about their stay

Our Testimonials

“Gorgeous hotel, very comfy beds, staff were exceptionally helpful and friendly. Beautiful gardens and delicious food. Only a few minutes from the town centre. Will happily stay here again.”

Louise

“We loved the gardens. We had dinner in the restaurant one evening and it was delicious, a real taste of West Cork. We had a fabulous time. Will return again.”

Rosanna

“The staff were friendly and efficient. There was a lovely atmosphere in the hotel, the gardens are a joy. We really enjoyed our stay will definitely return x.”

Jerry