Kinsale & West Cork Private Shore Tour
Tour Highlights- See Castles, Forts, Towers, Cathedrals And Amazing Scenery
- Stunning Scenery And Fascinating History At Charles Fort
- Free Time For Lunch/Coffee & Exploring In The Charming Village Of Kinsale
- Visit Timoleague abbey Built in 1240 A.D.
- Enjoy All The Benefits Of Hiring Your Own Driver In Cork
- your Private Tour Starts/Finishes From Your Ship
What's included- A Flexible Departure Time & Itinerary To Suit You
- Your Own Experienced & Fun Local Driver/Guide
- Modern Luxury Air-Conditioned Mini Bus
- A Full Comprehensive Touring Day
What To Expect
Your Private Shore Tour departs from your ship at a time that suits you, first heading to the 16th century Charles Fort for a photo-op to capture the stunning views and learn of its fascinating history.
It was once one of the largest military installations in the country, Charles Fort has been associated with some of the most well-known events in Irish history. From the Fort, you will also see stunning panoramic views of Kinsale Harbour and the West Cork coast.
Then on to the "star" of the Wild Atlantic Way to the charming town of Kinsale. Dubbed "Ireland's Gourmet Capital". Perfect for lunch! There are lots of pubs, restaurants and craft/gift shops dotted around the winding medieval streets of Kinsale, where you will have up to 2 hours free time to explore and enjoy lunch/drinks at one of the many fine local establishments.
It is now time to enjoy the picturesque town of Timoleague. We'll stop to explore the 13th century Timoleague Abbey founded by Darthmount McCormick McCarthy king of Desmond. You'll learn will how the Christian Community existed in the early ages.
Next, we'll take the stunning coastal drive to Garret's town beach and the old head of Kinsale, off which the Lusitania was sunk in 1915. Enjoy dramatic views as we enjoy part of the famous Wild Atlantic Way!
Then before heading back to your ship in plenty of good time for your sailing after a great day inspired by the beauty of Cork.
Kinsale
Originally a medieval fishing port, historic Kinsale (from the Irish, Ceann tSaile – ‘Head of the Sea’) is one of the most picturesque, popular and historic towns on the south-west coast of Ireland.
Kinsale has a beautiful setting with a long waterfront, a yacht-filled harbour, many narrow winding streets and brightly painted galleries, shops and houses.
Not only does Kinsale claim to be one of the most picturesque and oldest towns in Ireland, it is also internationally famous for the quality of its restaurants. It has been hailed as ‘The Gourmet Capital of Ireland’, with no shortage of cafés, pubs and restaurants to suit everyone's taste and budget.
Charles Fort
One of the best-known historical attractions in Kinsale is Charles Fort. Charles Fort is one of the finest surviving examples of a 17th Century star-shaped fort, and much of the original construction remains. Constructed in 1682 and garrisoned by the British Army until 1922. The fort has two enormous bastions overlooking the estuary, and three facing inland. Within its walls were all the barracks and ancillary facilities to support the fort’s garrison. The fort continued in military use until 1922.
Timoleague
The name Timoleague comes from the Irish for "House of Molaga" (Tigh Molaga). St. Molaga was reputed to have brought beekeeping to Ireland. Honey production is still evident in Timoleague.
The abbey was founded by the Franciscan order in 1240 A.D., on the site of a 6th-century monastic settlement founded by Saint Molaga.
In 1612 the abbey was sacked by English soldiers who also smashed all of the stained glass windows, but much of the significant architecture remains today.
