Bantry makes the perfect base for a relaxing and inspiring holiday in West Cork!
The charming heritage town sits at the head of Bantry Bay, Co. Cork. Explore the beauty of West Cork’s coastline, and the drama of the Wild Atlantic Way, and be charmed by the people who make West Cork such a spectacular place to visit!
Things to Do
Bantry is home to the historic Bantry House, and Wolfe Tone Square is the starting point for the renowned Sheep’s Head Way walking route: the 88km coastal walking route which extends round the coastline of the Sheep’s Head peninsula. The 20 Sheep’s Head Way loop walks on the Sheep’s Head and Whiddy Island offer you the opportunity to explore the unspoilt countryside around the town. Bring your camera to captures memories of the Atlantic coastline and West Cork’s beautiful bays!
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Bantry Festivals
Bantry is home to some of Ireland’s best-loved music and literary festivals.
The West Cork Chamber Music Festival, the West Cork Literary Festival, and the Masters of Tradition event draw the most talented writers and musicians to Bantry each year.
Loyal visitors return each summer to the West Cork town to enjoy the best of modern culture, as well as the great food, walks and experiences on offer on this stretch of Ireland’s coastline.
Visit Bantry House, one of Ireland’s best-preserved great houses. Enjoy the wide range of activities available from pony trekking to stone-carving … Or take part in the wonderful festivals that are a highlight of Ireland’s cultural calendar.
Check out what’s on!
The lovely mix of local cafés and restaurants means you’ll have the chance to sample great local food, including the famous Bantry Bay mussels, during your visit!
The Friday market in Wolfe Tone Square – one of the oldest markets in Ireland – gives you the chance to meet local producers and stock up on everything from fresh fish, olives, locally-made salamis and cakes. Perfect for a picnic or for a meal in one of the lovely holiday homes in the area.
Local food tours and the annual Taste of West Cork Festival give you some other great ways to connect with the wonderful foodie community here, offering you an irresistible flavour of West Cork.
Get a taste of what Bantry has to offer!
Accommodation
Bantry’s hotels are The Maritime Hotel, and Westlodge Hotel & Pondlodge Cottages. Lovely B&B accommodation can be found at Edencrest, on the outskirts of the town, or at Dromcloc House on the way towards the Sheep’s Head peninsula.
There are lots of great places to stay from hotels, B&Bs, and farmhouse cottages to camping and glamping sites.
For help planning your West Cork holiday, contact us at [email protected] and we’ll do our best to help.
