South West Ireland

South West Ireland :
The County of Cork shares with Kerry the south-western corner of Ireland. Washed by the warm Gulf Stream and tje mild moist southerly winds, palm trees and bamboo flourish.

The region is steeped in ancient history and folklore. There are over 100 heritage and cultural sites of significance covering many diverse aspects of Ireland's past.

Cork is the largest of all the Irish counties and Cork City, the European Capital of Culture 2005 is alive with the cultural richness of a truly modern city - annually featuring the world-renowned film and jazz festivals.

No matter from which direction the county of Kerry is approached, the great mountains of Macgillycuddy's Reeks draws the eyes of the traveller, including Ireland's highest mountain Carrauntoohil at 1, 039 m.

Whether on foot or by car, this county is well worth a visit.

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Places to visit in South West Ireland

Blarney Castle, Cork
Contains the Blarney stone - kiss it to receive the gift of eloquence!

Bantry House and Gardens, Cork
Beautiful gardens and a fine collection of tapestries, furniture and art treasures.

Fota Wildlife Park and Arboretum, Cork
More than 70 species of exotic wildlife in open, natural surroundings.

Ilnacullin Garinish Island, Cork
Small island perfect for lovers of trees and shrubs and plants of rare beauty.

West Cork Model Railway Village, Cork
A miniature world depicting Clonakilty, Kinsale, Bandon and Dunmanway as they were in the 1940's. A model railway meandering through the 4 towns captures life in the past.

Crag Cave, Kerry
Discovered in 1983 and thought to be over one million years old, Crag Cave is a wonderland of stalagmites and stalagmites.

Kerry the Kingdom
Tells the story of Kerry and Ireland over 7,000 years. The centre comprises three superb attractions under one roof.

Arigideen Valley Heritage Park, Cork
Archaeological trail, following the history of West Cork

Cobh The Queenstown Story, Cork
Housed in the restored Victorian Cobh Railway station, this is a dramatic exhibition of the origins, history and legacy of Cobh.

Jameson Heritage Centre, Cork
Follow the old distillery trail and learn about the many steps in whiskey production.

Muckross House and Gardens, Kerry
Period mansion set in Killarney National Park.