West Cork, Geographic region in County Cork, Ireland
West Cork covers three peninsulas—Beara, Sheep's Head, and Mizen Head—with many coves and harbors along the Atlantic coast. The region spreads across dozens of coastal towns and smaller settlements scattered through these cape landscapes.
The area holds Iron Age burial sites and stone circles linked to the ancient kingdom of Corcu Loígde. These remains show how humans settled along this coast thousands of years ago.
People living here maintain strong ties to the sea through traditional music sessions and seafood celebrations that mark the rhythm of community life. Fishing villages show these customs in everyday details like boats at rest and markets selling the daily catch.
The Wild Atlantic Way connects visitors through the region between places like Baltimore and Bantry along a scenic route. Lodging and overnight stays are available in coastal villages and larger towns throughout the area.
Off the coast sits Carbery's Hundred Isles, a scatter of small islands including inhabited spots like Sherkin Island and Cape Clear. These islands are reachable from the mainland and offer a different view of the coastal landscape.
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