Attractions and Places To See in Cork - Top 20

De Mizen Bridge is the spectacular pedestrian bridge that takes you to the former Mizen Head Signal Station, one of Ireland's most dramatic coastal locations. The bridge spans a deep gorge where Atlantic waves crash against the rocks — a place that has been made simultaneously rugged and perfectly accessible.

The Dursey Island Cable Car is Ireland’s only sea-crossing cable car, offering a unique and scenic ride from the Beara Peninsula to the wild, uninhabited island. You'll find Dursey Deli here daily from 12pm to 5:30pm selling refreshments and fish dishes.

A beautiful salt lake, separated from the sea by a narrow passage. In the center of the lake a small island with the ruins, unfortunately not visible from the coast, of Clohane Castle. From here the path to Knockomagh starts, very steep but with a 360° view of the entire valley.

Lough Hyne is truly something special. On my way to the lake I passed through the dense forest of the Knockomagh Woods Trail, where the green of the trees and the chirping of birds cover the hikers like a thick blanket. A quiet, almost mystical place. When you leave the path and suddenly see the clear waters of Lough Hyne in front of you, the landscape opens up in a completely new way. The lake, which is considered a safe place to swim even in rough conditions due to its salt water supply, attracts not only hikers but also swimmers who bathe in the protected waters here all year round.

The hike to Mizen Bridge not only reveals an impressive construction, but also the wild coastal landscape that unfolds before you. The view of the bridge, framed by the rugged rock formations, is particularly tempting to pause for a moment. Access takes you through the visitor center, where you can also experience the history of the former radio station. The gentle sound of the water under the bridge and the wind that blows almost constantly here give you a feeling of freedom and closeness to nature. The place lives from its wild atmosphere, but be prepared: there is a fee to enter and the walk across the bridge is not for the faint-hearted. The steep cliffs and the height can seem challenging, but the feeling of standing in the midst of these forces of nature makes every step worth it. The hike itself is easy to do and leads along well-developed paths, and once you are at the top, the view of the roaring sea and the rugged coast rewards you with its raw beauty.

The climb to Lady Bantry's Lookout begins leisurely, taking you first along the Canrooska River and finally over stone steps to one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the area. The narrow paths that meander through the lush greenery convey a feeling of calm as you climb higher and higher. Once you reach the top, a fantastic view of the dense forests of Glengarriff, which stretch to Bantry Bay, awaits you. The clear air and the wide panorama invite you to linger - one of the wooden benches offers you the perfect opportunity to sit down and enjoy nature to the fullest. The valley spreads out in front of you, framed by gentle mountains, and the sea glitters in the distance. The path is short but still varied. The path can be slippery, especially after rainy days, so it's worth bringing good shoes. The hike is ideal for a relaxed excursion where you can unwind. It is a place that captivates with both its idyllic tranquility and its impressive landscape. If you do the hike early in the morning or in the evening, you will often have the view all to yourself - a true retreat in the middle of nature.

The cable car to Dursey Island is definitely a special experience. It floats high above Dursey Sound and offers sweeping views of the deep blue sea and the rugged coastline of the Beara Peninsula. The crossing takes only 15 minutes, but just the thought of sitting on Ireland's only cable car makes the journey a mini-adventure. Although the island has been spared from tourism, this is precisely what makes it so appealing. As soon as you step off the cable car station on the island, you'll be greeted by a peaceful silence. The rolling hills and sweeping vistas invite you to take quiet hikes, far from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. But be sure to bring plenty of provisions – there are no shops on Dursey Island. The few locals are all the more welcoming, and you might even be invited for tea and scones. What's particularly exciting is that the cable car was originally used to transport livestock. The simple construction and the feeling of traveling within a piece of history make the ride all the more authentic. But be warned: The wind can be strong up here, so don't forget a warm jacket. If you're hungry after returning to the mainland, look out for the food truck – they serve delicious fish and chips, perfect for a fortifying end to your day. A hike on Dursey Island combines tranquility, nature, and a unique cable car experience. Perfect for anyone seeking the authentic charm of the Irish coastal landscape.

Here, the Irish fought with their Spanish allies against the English over 400 years ago - and were ultimately defeated. Entry is still 5 euros, 4 euros for seniors. That's OK, as there is a lot to see, including exhibitions. Large free parking lot in front of the site. In the immediate vicinity there is an ancient, very overgrown cemetery.