Bandon

The River Bandon is a river and protected conservation area in County Cork that flows from the Maughanaclea Hills down to Kinsale Harbour. The valley it occupies was shaped by ancient bedrock, and the waterway supports various habitats including wooded banks and wetland areas.

The valley contains remains of ancient settlements, including ruins of Ringrone Castle positioned on elevated ground overlooking the water. These remnants show that communities have lived in this area for a long time.

The river remains intertwined with fishing practices, and visitors can see how local people connect with the water through boats and equipment along the banks. These activities reflect long-standing bonds between residents and the natural resources that have sustained communities for generations.

The waterway provides several access points along the banks where visitors can approach the river for different activities. Some areas require permits for specific uses, so it is worth checking local conditions before planning your visit.

The river follows an unusual winding path through the countryside before forming an estuary near its mouth. This changing landscape offers visitors different views depending on where they walk along the banks.