Family Trips Ireland | Explore Cork in Ireland
We offer many different tours of Ireland and will fit is as much sight-seeing as possible to give you a vacation of a lifetime. Cork is a very popular request and as part of our southwest tours it is simple one of the most beautiful places in the world. The name comes from the word ‘corcach’ meaning ‘marsh’ and it is the second largest city in Ireland, also fondly known as ‘The Rebel County’. Here’s just some of the tour sights to experience in Cork.
Kinsale
A popular holiday destination for Irish and tourists, Kinsale is a charming yachting harbour. A unique place for any small group tour of Ireland. The Irish word for Kinsale is ‘Cionn tSáile’ and is located at the mouth of the River Bandon. It is a highly recommended place to visit and a private guided tour of Ireland will show you everything you need to see in this hidden gem. There are many prominent historical buildings in Kinsale and walking through the colourful streets there’s also an artistic feel to this quirky town. It hosts an annual Jazz festival, not something you typically find in traditional Ireland.
Cobh
The harbour town of Cobh was known as Queenstown until the 1920’s and is steeped in heritage. The harbour is one known to be one of the safest in the world but is also famously and tragically known because of the Lusitania and the Titanic. Cobh was the Titanic’s last port of call before striking an iceberg and sinking in the Atlantic in 1912. In memory of the Titanic, Cobh has a museum called the Titanic Experience. The private escorted tour takes their guests through the journey of the Titanic right up until the sinking. With exhibition areas to view it really gives you a sense of the scale of this tragedy at the time.
Blarney Castle
Blarney town is a must-see place in Cork and a highlight is Blarney Castle; an ancient feature in Cork that has been rebuilt twice since its’ original structure of wood. In the 13th Century it was replaced with stone before being demolished in the 15th Century and rebuilt again by the King of Munster, Cormac McCarthy. This is the castle that can be seen standing today, although it’s partially in ruins it’s always worth seeing a castle during your trip to Ireland. A famous feature of the castle is the Blarney Stone. For over 200 years, millions of people have been travelling to Blarney from all over the world specifically to kiss the stone. Kissing the stone involves lying down and kissing it backwards. A common legend is that whoever kisses the stone is gifted with eloquence and persuasiveness.
Blarney Woollen Mills
Near the castle is Blarney Woollen Mills, here you can purchase authentic traditional Irish gifts (Irish linens, lace & Waterford Crystal). A perfect opportunity to get keepsakes from your trip or to bring some home to loved ones. If you are tempted to buy a lot from the woollen mills your private Irish chauffeur will be on standby with your luxury vehicle. You will also see a few of these Woollen Mills dotted around different little towns in Ireland. All offering unique local produce and gifts.
Jameson Whiskey Distillery
For the whiskey fans; In Middleton, Cork you will find the Jameson Whiskey Distillery. As one of the popular tipples in Ireland, Jameson’s Whiskey Distillery has created the Jameson Experience tour, allowing people to explore the distillery to see for themselves the secrets to perfecting the ‘uisce beatha’ (whiskey, meaning ‘water of life’ in Irish). The enormous vats of whiskey can be seen in this unique guided tour which includes watching a film, and the signature golden drink can even be sampled before you leave. Your Irish private chauffeur will be at hand to drive you back to your accommodation, so relax and enjoy a few!
English Market, Cork City
The English Market can be found in Cork City centre and is Ireland’s most famous covered food market. The market attracts people from all over Ireland and further, it even was honoured to be visited by the Queen of England in 2011. There’s a mix of traditional Irish food’s but also exciting new foods on the market. It’s famed for its’ fresh produce and has been at its present site since 1788.
Hayfield Manor
To enjoy exploring Cork and have time to see all the fantastic sights we highly recommend an overnight stay. Hayfield Manor is a famous 5 star family-owned hotel in Southwest of Cork. It offers a unique experience to luxury accommodation and houses magnificent gardens; a tranquil oasis in the vibrant city of Cork. All bedrooms in the Hayfield have their own signature style and with antique settings in each, they exude comfort. Guests can unwind in the signature restaurant Orchids, overlooking the beautiful private gardens it creates the perfect atmosphere to dine one of the best fine dining restaurants in Cork.
We can help you plan any part of your luxury vacation in Ireland and if you have any questions please do contact us and we’d be happy to help. If you are interested in an Irish Vacation Package and would like more information, please click on the Enquire button below. All the best, Mike Ryan.