Discover West Cork on an Eco-Friendly Adventure
Experience breathtaking coastline, rich history, and vibrant culture on foot, bus and bike
Embark on a car-free travel adventure from Kinsale to Skibbereen and discover the true essence of West Cork. Many prefer to savor their time in this picturesque region without the hassle of driving and West Cork is a haven of rugged coastlines, colourful villages, and sandy beaches, rich in heritage and renowned for its vibrant food and outdoor scene. By traveling by bus, bike, and ferry, you can enjoy conversations with local people and awe-inspiring places while reducing your carbon footprint. This itinerary will guide you through an unforgettable journey, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of West Cork.
Day 1
Welcome to Kinsale
A charming coastal town where history, culture, lip-smacking food and activities come together. Colourful shop fronts, a picturesque working harbour, great shopping and a thriving art scene.
Get on your Bike and explore the scenic wonders of Kinsale on the Kinsale Coast Tour. Starting from Kinsale College, this 2-hour ebiking tour with Wild Atlantic Sports is the perfect way to discover majestic forts, pristine beaches, colourful streetscapes and the bustling harbour. Don’t miss the magnificent Charles Fort with views overlooking the harbour – just one of the highlights of this epic journey...
Bus Timetables:
Kinsale to Clonakilty Local Link 253
Cork City to Kinsale via Cork Airport Bus 226
The Old Head
Visit the breathtaking Old Head of Kinsale, a 27km cycling loop from Kinsale town to the Old Head takes in remote sandy coves and quiet country roads best tackled by E-bike.
Visit the Lusitania Museum and Old Head Signal Tower. Take time to reflect in the memorial garden and enjoy unrivalled 360° views from the signal tower.
Note: you can also get there by local link Route 253, and then travel onwards to Clonakilty.
Insider Tips
1. Explore the colourful streets of Kinsale at leisure or in the company of a local guide like Don & Barry of Historic Stroll
2. Kinsale Food Tours (pictured) bring this gourmet capital to life sharing insights into fabulous food and makers.
3. Kinsale Farmer’s Market runs every Wednesday from 09:30 – 14:30 year-round Enjoy stunning views from the harbours edge and a great mix of craft and delicious food.
4. Experience the drink of Celtic Ireland's Kings and Chieftains at Kinsale Mead Company. Tours run from 12pm but visitors are welcome to call in for tastings from 11am – 5pm.
Day 2
Clonakilty
Next stop Clonakilty! Fondly known as “Clon”, this charming town is celebrated for its meandering streets and warm, friendly locals - a true gem of West Cork. Feel like a giant as you explore the West Cork Model Railway Village, Ireland’s only model village!
Watch history come to life with charming, hand-crafted replicas of Clonakilty, Kinsale, Bandon, and Dunmanway, all perfectly scaled at 1:24. Kids can have fun in the indoor and outdoor play areas too
Adventure
Unleash your inner adventurer at Clonakilty Park Adventure Centre. This action-packed park features zip lines, climbing walls, high ropes courses, and thrilling challenges.
Whether you're conquering obstacles or racing down the zip wire, laugh out loud adventure awaits in beautiful West Cork!
Insider Tips
1. Learn about Michael Collins and the history of Irish Independence at Michael Collins House - museum and interpretative centre.
2. Cycle or walk to Inchydoney Beach (5km) for stunning coastal scenery.
3. Clonakilty Farmers Market runs every Friday morning where an array of fine foods and local produce are available.
4. De Barras is famous for its traditional music - this third-generation family business has recently received the Lonely Planet Best in Travel 2025’ award in the Top 10 Best Venues in the world!
5. Visit the Clonakilty Black Pudding Visitor Centre to learn about and taste the secret recipe handed down through the generations.
Day 3
Skibbereen
Skibbereen exudes a unique charm and personality. A beautiful riverside One of the most southerly towns in Ireland, setting with lively markets, quirky boutiques and of course, great food!
Transport
Bus Éireann Route 237: Clonakilty to Skibbereen (bus originates in Cork City)
Local Link bus 253– Kinsale to Clonakilty
An Gorta Mór (The Great Famine)
Skibbereen Heritage Centre is a must visit attraction that shares the story of the Great Famine. Immersive audiovisual displays, exhibits, and interactive stations share Skibbereen's Famine stories.
You can also take a virtual tour of the famine sites in the town of Skibbereen and hear of the tragedies associated with them. Both educational and moving, this experience is not to be missed.
Kayaking
For a truly unforgettable experience, join Atlantic Sea Kayaking for a night tour, where you can paddle under the stars and explore the serene waters by moonlight.
If you're lucky, you might even see the magical glow of bioluminescent plankton lighting up the water beneath your kayak. A truly enchanting way to experience this natural wonder.
Insider Tips
1. Skibbereen is the ideal base to discover some of West Cork’s most picturesque fishing villages including Baltimore, Glandore, Union Hall, Ballydehob and Castletownshend.
2. West Cork Arts Centre (Uillinn) is a reflective space for contemporary visual arts exhibitions and workshops.
3. The Church Restaurant is a beautifully converted methodist church in the heart of the town serving great food with friendly staff.
4. Pop into Kalbos Café (pictured) run by Siobhan and Anthony. Passionate about farm to fork, everything is homegrown or locally sourced at this café. A favourite with locals for traditional home cooked meals and baked treats.
