Placenames & Their Amazing Stories: with a West Cork Picnic
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the world’s only daily placenames walking tour, an intimate, luxury experience (max 8 guests) along the stunning Wild Atlantic Way. Regularly featured on TV and in the media, this unique tour unlocks the hidden history of Castlehaven through its placenames—revealing Viking traders, Gaelic chieftains, and long-lost ways of life.
Discover names like Carrig na Saighneoirí, a tiny headland named after the medieval pilchard fishermen who made the O’Driscolls and O’Donovans as wealthy as European royalty. Explore Beann tSídháin (peak of the faeries ) and An Glaisín Álainn (the beautiful little stream), where the landscape itself tells a story.
Your experience includes a gourmet picnic of West Cork cheese, smoked seafood from Union Hall, and Celine’s home baking, making this an unforgettable blend of culture, history, and artisan food.
12:00 Noon Daily | Max 8 Guests | Includes Artisan Picnic
Available options
Placenames & Their Amazing Stories: with a West Cork Picnic
What's included
We provide hiking poles for those that want to use them
We provide a picnic lunch featuring local artisan foodstuffs.
Coffee and/or Tea
Parking Fees
Detailed itinerary
1
After introductions at our departure point, your guide will give a brief overview on the planned route and a few safety pointers for walking on the off-road sections.
2
Our first stop is at Jim Barry's Cross where we briefly discuss the science and study of placenames and some of the history behind Irish placenames.
3
Our 2nd stop is about 100m off road on the Legach, this is an amazing beautiful stop on the edge of the ocean. Based on placennames here we share some amazing stories about how local farmers obtained fertiliser from the sea to grow their potatoes and other crops.
4
Our 3rd stop is at Sandy Cove beach. Here we discuss how sand was harvested by local farmers using horses and donkey's.
What's not included
Hotel pick-up or drop-off
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
56 reviews
5★
56
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Our meeting point at Castlehaven Cross is 2km southwest of Castletownshend village on the Wild Atlantic Way.
The nearest town is Skibbereen, it is about 12 minutes away by car.
Use eircode P81 KC87 on your favourite mapping app if you need detailed directions.
About Cork
Cork is a vibrant city in southwestern Ireland known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and friendly locals. Nestled between rolling hills and a stunning coastline, it offers a mix of urban charm and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
English Market
A historic covered market offering a variety of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts. It's a great place to sample Cork's culinary delights.
Market
1-2 hours
Free entry, prices vary for purchases
Blarney Castle
A medieval stronghold and home to the famous Blarney Stone, which is said to grant the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it.
Historical
2-3 hours
€20-€25
Cork City Gaol
A former prison that offers a fascinating insight into the lives of inmates and the history of Cork.
Historical
1-2 hours
€8-€10
Fitzgerald Park
A beautiful public park with walking paths, a lake, and the Cork Public Museum. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
St. Fin Barre's Cathedral
A stunning Gothic Revival cathedral with intricate stone carvings and beautiful stained-glass windows.
Religious
30-60 minutes
Free entry, donations welcome
Must-Try Local Dishes
Coddle
A hearty dish made with sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions, slow-cooked in a flavorful broth.
Dinner
Contains pork and beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Black Pudding
A type of blood sausage made with pork blood, fat, and oatmeal, often served with breakfast.
Breakfast
Contains pork and blood, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Cork Sausage
A spiced sausage made with pork, often served with bread or in a sandwich.
Breakfast/Lunch
Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Seafood Chowder
A creamy soup made with fresh seafood like fish, mussels, and prawns, served with crusty bread.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made gluten-free and dairy-free upon request.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Gougane Barra Forest Park
Cycling around Fota Island
Kayaking in Kinsale Harbour
Picnicking in Fitzgerald Park
Strolling through the English Market
Enjoying a spa day at a local resort
Visiting Cork City Gaol
Exploring St. Fin Barre's Cathedral
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, longer days, and various festivals. Expect lively streets, outdoor events, and vibrant nightlife.
15°C to 20°C
59°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Irish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+0 (IST: GMT+1 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Cork is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's always advisable to take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis and agree on a price beforehand
Getting there
By air
- Cork Airport • 8 km from city center
By train
Cork Kent Station
By bus
Cork Bus Station (Parnell Place)
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Cork, with frequent services covering the city and suburbs.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Free Now, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Shandon
The Lough
Ballincollig
Day trips
Kinsale
25 km from Cork • Half day to full day
A charming coastal town known for its colorful buildings, gourmet restaurants, and historical sites.
Blarney Castle and Gardens
8 km from Cork • Half day to full day
A medieval stronghold and home to the famous Blarney Stone, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Cobh
25 km from Cork • Half day to full day
A picturesque seaside town with a rich maritime history, known as the departure point for the Titanic.
Festivals
Cork Jazz Festival • October
Cork International Choral Festival • May
Cork Film Festival • November
Pro tips
- Visit the English Market early in the morning for the freshest produce and a less crowded experience
- Kiss the Blarney Stone early in the day to avoid long queues and enjoy the castle and gardens with fewer crowds
- Explore the city's hidden gems, such as the Butter Museum and the Shandon Bells, for a unique and authentic experience
- Try local specialties like coddle, black pudding, and brown bread ice cream for a taste of Cork's culinary delights
- Attend a traditional music session in a local pub to experience the city's vibrant cultural scene and friendly atmosphere
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
