Local Attractions

One of the best things about The Retreat Country House is its convenient proximity to a range of captivating destinations, offering diverse and enjoyable experiences. Outlined below are some local attractions ideal for family vacations or group getaways. While these are just a few nearby suggestions, there are an abundance of attractions waiting to be explored. Further details will be provided upon making your reservation, and feel free to reach out to us for more information. We look forward to assisting you in planning an unforgettable stay.

Bandon Town known in Irish as Droichead na Bandan - The Bridge of the Bandon River. Situated on the doorstep of the Wild Atlantic Way, Bandon is steeped in Irish History. The town was established as a colony at the southern frontier of the Munster Plantations. In response to persistent Irish counter-attacks, six-feet-thick walls were erected around Bandon. Today, as the southernmost walled town, Bandon is part of the Irish Walled Town Network, and remnants of the historic wall still stand, though most fell in 1689.

Golf

West Cork’s premier golfing experience since 1909, the course at Bandon Golf Club, situated at Castle Bernard, is set over 130 acres of in the Bandon River valley.

Bandon Farmers Market

Every Saturday morning the car park of the Old Market Garden buzzes as the community come out in force to sample the very best of local produce at the Bandon Farmers Market. The market runs every Saturday from 9.30am-1.30pm.

Local Shopping and Dining

Indulge in the vibrant local scene with exquisite cafes, restaurants, and shops at your doorstep. Whether enjoying a meal out or finding a sentimental gift, there are plenty of options to explore. Contact us for more information.

Bandon Events & Festivals

• Bandon Agricultural Show (May): A family-friendly event featuring gardening, flower arranging, music, animal judging, dog shows, vintage displays, and more.

• Bandon Music Festival (June Bank Holiday): A festival dedicated to Irish music lovers, featuring events over the June bank holiday each year.

• Bandon Walled Town Festival (August): Celebrating the southernmost walled town in Ireland, this festival during National Heritage Week includes historical talks and walks, a family fun day, live music, and plays.

• A Taste of Bandon Food Trail (October): a food trail around the streets of Bandon to celebrate the local artisan food and drink in the town.

Kinsale is located at the start of the Wild Atlantic Way and only a 25 minute drive from The Retreat Country House. This coastal town is famous for its colourful streetscapes and rich history, fuelled by great food, boutiques & events.

Your trip to Kinsale can include the following activities:

• Go Golfing - Tee off and relish breathtaking views while staying active by playing golf at either Kinsale Golf Club or the stunning Old Head Golf Links.

• Explore Charlesfort - recognised as one of Europe’s most impressive forts stands as a nearly perfect example of a 17th Century star-shaped fort. Much of the construction initiated in 1678 remains intact. Perched on cliffs near Summercove, the fort offers panoramic views of the town. You can visit the fort and enjoy the sights at your own pace or join in on a group tour.

• Water Adventures - Embark on a boat tour, enjoy sailing, fishing or kayaking. The possibilities on the sea are endless. Contact us for more information.

• Savor Kinsale's Culinary Delights - Immerse yourself in Kinsale's renowned restaurants and cafés. As Ireland's Gourmet Capital, the town boasts over 50 dining establishments, ranging from food trucks to Michelin-starred restaurants—a true paradise for food enthusiasts! Feel free to reach out to us for recommendations.

• Retail Therapy - Explore the lively, winding streets of the town and visit the distinctive boutiques and galleries. Discover a variety of handmade and locally produced items, ensuring you find beautiful one-of-a-kind pieces in Kinsale's shops.

A 20 minute drive from The Retreat Country House. Timoleague Abbey serves as the central attraction in the welcoming West Cork village of Timoleague. The abbey stands charmingly at the water's edge, overlooking a long sea inlet.

Take pleasure in the level coastal walk connecting Timoleague to Courtmacsherry, the neighboring coastal village boasting a unique community-run Cooperative Shop and bookstore. Courtmacsherry woods is also an option to experience more nature in the area. These coastal villages offer an array of delightful bars, restaurants, and cafes. For further details, feel free to reach out to us.

Cork City, often referred to as the "real capital," is conveniently just a 40-minute drive from The Retreat Country House.

While there are numerous sites and experiences to savor in Cork City, here are just a few worth mentioning.

• The English Market: From London’s 1000-year-old Borough Market to Barcelona’s bustling La Boqueria, some of Europe’s greatest cities contain mighty food markets and Cork is no exception! The English Market, in operation since 1788. Packed with fresh produce, colorful characters, and rich history, this market is a lively hub in the heart of Cork City.

• Blarney Castle: It is said that if you kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle you will be granted the gift of eloquence (also known in Ireland as the “Gift of the Gab”) and you will be able to talk your way out of everything. Take a tour of this famous Castle and surrounding gardens with your friends and family followed by a coffee, lunch and some retail therapy at Blarney Woollen Mills where you can treat yourself to your very own quintessentially Irish Aran Sweater.

• Catch a show at the Everyman Theatre or Cork Opera House.

• Experience Irish Traditional Music at Sin É or An Spailpín Fánach.

• Cork City Gaol: Step back in time and understand 19th and early 20th-century life in Cork within and beyond the prison walls. The exhibition guides visitors through furnished cells, providing insights into the daily lives of both prisoners and those working at Cork City Gaol.

• Cork Jazz Festival (October) - Held on the October Bank Holiday every year, the Cork City comes alive on the arrival of the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival Experience a blend of local and international talents that meet to perform at this exceptional event.
  

Clonakilty a nearby town located in West Cork, only a 20 minute drive from The Retreat Country House.

There are a variety of longstanding boutique stores in this beautiful town together with a number of centres and activities to experience.

• Horse Riding - We can recommend a number of equestrian centres nearby, but our guests particularly enjoyed their experience in the local equestrian centre in Clonakilty. Please feel free to contact us to find out more.

• Inchydoney Beach - Inchydoney Blue Flag Beach near Clonakilty in West Cork is a Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point. Inchydoney Beach has consistently been named Ireland’s favourite beach by international tourists. Popular with surfers, including beginners, the beach features a surf school offering board and wetsuit rentals. Lifeguards are present during the summer months for added safety. The beach provides convenient facilities such as a public car park, toilets, and accessibility via ramps and steps.

• Clonakilty Distillery - The award-winning Clonakilty Distillery, located in the heart of Clonakilty, offers guided tours, whiskey and gin tastings. You can also attend the Minke Gin School, where you will experience delving into the world of gin from raw ingredients to the art of the perfect serve. Select your preferred botanicals and distill your personalized bottle of gin to bring home!

• West Cork Model Railway Village - A favorite among families visiting West Cork, the model railway village replicates the historic West Cork Railway line with miniature trains, boats, recognizable village buildings, and figurines narrating life in the 1940s.

• Explore the Legacy of Michael Collins - For those intrigued by the Irish Independence story, the Michael Collins House Museum or the Michael Collins Centre are worth a visit. Learn more about Michael Collins also known as “the Big Fella”, an Irish patriot.