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 Baltimore in West Cork sits near the very southern tip of Ireland on the beautiful southwest coast, roughly mid-way between the busy tourist destinations of Dingle and Kinsale. Slightly off the main tourist trail, Baltimore has retained a village atmosphere. There are no shopping malls but plenty of high quality accommodation and great places to eat and drink. Across the fine natural harbour lie Carbery's Hundred Isles, which include the enchanting islands of Cape Clear, Sherkin and Heir, all reached by ferry from the pier.
Baltimore's history has always been shaped by the sea – so much so that in 1631 much of the population was carried off by pirates, never to be seen again, an event known as the Sack of Baltimore. The castle of Dún na Séad (the Fort of the Jewels) from which the village takes its Irish name was also sacked by seaborne invaders more than once in its long career. 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 seafarers of a more peaceful kind.
Water-based activities like sailing, angling, diving, and whale watching are what now draw many visitors to Baltimore and the Isles. However, there is also plenty to enjoy without leaving dry land, in the village itself and amongst the spectacular scenery round about. So 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!
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