The furthest village along the Sheep’s Head peninsula, Kilcrohane is home to a small but thriving community
The Sheep’s Head Producers’ Market and Shop is the place to find treasures produced by local craftspeople and artisan food producers.
Things to Do
The Sheep’s Head Way walking route traces the entire coastline of the Sheep’s Head peninsula. Many of its most spectacular loop walks extend from trailheads around Kilcrohane. Head up behind the village to take the Peakeen Ridge Loop Walk, for example, to take in spectacular views across Bantry Bay and Dunmanus Bay – the waters that flank this narrow peninsula.
There are three trailheads here – Kilcrohane, Black Gate, Goat’s Path, and Tooreen – with routes to satisfy walkers of all abilities!
Kilcrohane is popular with cyclists of all abilities who seek out the spectacular hairpin bends that lead down from Seefin to Kilcrohane village, and enjoy the quiet beauty of the road back up the peninsula which lies low to the beautiful waters of Dunmanus Bay. The Sheep’s Head Cycle Route extends all around the coastline of the peninsula. Bike hire is available from The Old Creamery in Kilcrohane village with traditional and electric bikes available. You can also arrange for Cycle West Cork‘s bikes to be delivered to your holiday accommodation.
In the summer, the Kilcrohane Carnival brings a festive atmosphere to a village where music and friendly pubs are to be found.
Trá Ruaim beach just outside the village is an off-the-beaten track gem. Swim from the village pier with the locals, explore the local shore fishing spots or join the Sheep’s Head Way walking route, and hike out to the end of the Sheep’s Head peninsula – a European Destination of Excellence: a visit to Kilcrohane will stay long in the memory!
Places to Eat and Drink
The Old Creamery in Kilcrohane is the home to a lovely café and restaurant run by the O’Donovan family. There’s plenty of space here and the café is a popular spot with walking groups (do get in touch to make a group booking). The Bridgeview Restaurant is also popular with visiting hikers.
You’ll find fine coffee and snacks, as well as contemporary art, at the The White House Gallery & Café just outside the village. The Alice West Centre Black Gate is open throughout the summer and is a great place to stop for advice on walks as well as for refreshments.
Head out to the peninsula’s end, and you’ll reach the legendary spot that is Bernie’s Cupán Tae: beloved by everyone who’s walked the Sheep’s Head Way. There’s no finer spot to take a cup of tea and reflect on a fantastic West Cork walk.
Places to Stay in Kilcrohane
There’s some lovely Kilcrohane accommodation to be found. Trá Ruaim Loft is a perfect small holiday home for couples and people hiking alone, while Bayview, Mason’s Cottage, and Pinewood Cottage offer great family accommodation. Luxury accommodation is available at the Artist’s Cottage which even boasts an outdoor pool!
Not far from Kilcrohane, you’ll find Reenmore Farmhouse B&B – right on the seashore: a popular spot for hikers who are walking the whole Sheep’s Head trail. Non-Fáilte-Ireland-approved accommodation can be found at http://westcorkholidayaccommodation.com/.
This is one of the most westerly rural communities in Europe, and it offers one of the warmest welcomes you’ll find anywhere!
