Bantry is a town on the coast of County Cork at the head of Bantry Bay.
The town has a large square, which nowadays is the location of a weekly market and various functions and festivals.
Bantry Ireland, being in the path of The Gulf Stream, is in the centre of an area of verdant landscape, palm trees and semi-tropical plants.Surrounded by high mountains on one side and blue sea on the other side, it is a region of splendid which is well worth a visit.
Outdoor Activities in Bantry Ireland
Walking
The surrounding countryside is a walkers paradise and there are two walks which are recognised by the National Waymarked Ways Committee: Sheep’s Head Way and Beara Way.
The Sheep’s Head Way is an 88km walk which to Sheep’s Head from Bantry to Sheep’s Head and back through a different route. Walking is mostly off road across open countryside and is well marked.
The Beara Way is about 165km going from Kenmare to Glengarriff to Dursey and back to Kenmare. There are numerous loops off this route.
Find Accommodation in Bantry
Golf
Bantry Bay Golf Club has a demanding 18 hole course and there is a Pitch & Putt Course nearby.
There are three other 18 hole golf courses within a 20 mile radius and numerous 9 hole golf courses.
Click on the images for more views of Bantry Ireland
Angling
Shore fishing is very popular in the area with numerous species including conger eels, dogfish, cod, pollock, ray, skate and other varieties available. Sea angling is a big sport in the area and boats are available for hire. Some of the best fishing lakes and rivers in Ireland are in this locality.
Boating and Sailing
Sailing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking is popular and there is a safe anchorage and harbour facilities. Boats, kayaks, canoes and skiboats can be hired locally.
History and Heritage
The Bantry Bay region is rich in historical and archeological sites, including wedge tombs, stone circles, alignments and galluns.
Entertainment
Then there is a choice of classical music (at Bantry House), modern, Irish, disco or traditional Irish music. Bantry House is an unmissable attraction even when there are no music events on there.
Eating out
The greater Bantry region has accommodation for about 2,500 visitors. There are many hotels, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts and some self catering accommodation. There are also five hostels as well as camping site by the sea.
There is a selection of restaurants to suit every budget from gourmet to fish and chips outlets. Many different cuisines including French, Italian, Oriental, European and Irish can be found and naturallu there is an emphasis on seafood because of the availability of many varieties of fresh fish.