Baltimore, West Cork

Ireland

YOU ARE HERE: Home
Baltimore & the Isles

baltimore-signBaltimore in West Cork sits near the very southern tip of Ireland on the beautiful southwest coast. Across a large natural harbour lie Carbery's Hundred Isles, including the enchanting islands of Cape Clear, Sherkin and Heir, all reached by ferry from the pier. Slightly off the main tourist trail, Baltimore has retained a village atmosphere, even though there is no shortage of places to stay, places to eat and drink, or things to do.

Baltimore's history has always been shaped by the sea – so much so that in 1631 the entire population was carried off by pirates, never to be seen again. The original castle of Dún na Séad (the Fort of the Jewels) from which the village takes its Irish name was sacked by waterborne invaders more than once over the centuries. Happily, the village recovered fully from these early setbacks and today the labyrinth of creeks and coves which was once the haunt of pirates is a playground for invaders of a more peaceful kind.

While there is plenty to enjoy without leaving dry land, in the village itself and amongst the spectacular scenery around it, activities like sailing, angling, diving, and whale watching are what draw many visitors to Baltimore. In the bars and restaurants at the end of the day confirmed landlubbers rub shoulders with people who have spent it on (or perhaps under) the ocean. These days the Fort of the Jewels welcomes everybody with open arms, including waterborne invaders!

where-to-stay what-to-do where-to-eat

Where to stay
Top-class accommodation of all kinds in Baltimore and the islands.

What to do
The most exciting activities, events and places to visit by land or sea.

Where to eat
All the best places to eat in and around Baltimore and the islands
 

logos