Explore What’s On Your Doorstep

Under the new Covid-19 Level 3 restrictions we’re not permitted to travel outside of our own county, but not to worry – this is the perfect opportunity to once again explore what’s on our doorstep. 

Let’s seize the opportunity to embrace the great outdoors (just make sure you check the weather forecast before you go, it’s Ireland after all!) We’ve put together a list of some of our favourite and most scenic walking routes in Cork to that will both delight and excite you. 

 

Gougane Barra – Sli Sleitbhe


Distance: 2.40km

Height: 130m

Time: 1hr 45min

Type: Coillte Recreation Trails

Starting point: Upper carpark, Gougane Barra

Difficulty: Strenuous


What you can expect:

The route might sound short but don’t let that fool you – this is probably one of the most challenging hiking routes in Cork. The Sli Sleitbhe trail brings you through the Gougane Barra Forest, across the River Lee, out onto the side of Sli Sleitbhe where you will take in the breath-taking views of the Shehy Mountains, the valley below and the iconic Gougane Barra Lake. 


Did we mention that that it’s probably one of the most photogenic places in Cork too? 

Don’t believe us? Just look at this. 

 

Source: Stock Image from Canva

Source: Stock Image from Canva

 

 

Ardgroom – Pulleen loop

 

Distance: 5km

Height: 100m

Time: 2hr

Type: National Loop Walk

Starting point: Trailhead at Cuas Quay

Difficulty: Easy

 

What you can expect:

Ardgroom is a beautiful, brightly painted village overlooking the Kenmare River estuary.

There’s a number of ancient megalithic tombs along the way – the most spectacular of them being the Canfire Stone Circle that dates back to 1,000BC. The Canfire stones taper towards points and it’s believed this stone circle is in fact an ancient calendar. Discover Ireland maps out a perfect route of Pulleen loop that starts at the pier at Cuas Quay near Bird Point. Along this route you will visit a number of interesting sites like the ruins of farmhouses, sheepfolds and walled holdings, until you arrive at Dog’s Point. 

At Dogs Point you’ll find a small beach and sea cave which is the perfect spot for a picnic or just a short rest before you embark on you journey back along the coast where you’ll soak in some spectacular views of the coastline. 

Coming to the end of the trail you’ll get a close-up view of the Coosmore sea cave which is just 250m from the trailhead.

 

Source: Stock Image from Canva

Source: Stock Image from Canva 

 

 

Old Head of Kinsale Loop Walk

 

Distance: 6km

Height: 100m

Time: 1.5hrs

Type:  Looped Walk

Starting point: The Speckled Door Bar and Restaurant, Kinsale, Co. Cork

Difficulty: Easy

 

What you can expect:

The Old Head of Kinsale is a picturesque headline jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean.  Prepare yourself for some spectacular panoramic views of the cliffs and ocean you will see throughout the walk. If you’re a history lover you’ll love this hike even more as along the walk you stumble upon the Old Head Lighthouse which was built in the 17th century and the remains of the Lusitania passenger ship, which was torpedoed by a German U-Boat during WW2.

 

Source: Pure Cork

Source: Pure Cork

 

Now you’ve got some location inspiration, is your wardrobe ready for the great outdoors?