Winter is a wonderful time of year for a walk or hike along the coast, through the woods or among the hills of beautiful West Cork. Here is a list of 5 beautiful and scenic winter walks/hikes this winter in West Cork. So, wrap up warm, grab your waterproofs, get out and make a special winter memory.
1 - Gougane Barra Trails & Forest Park
Nestled in the heart of West Cork lies the tranquil gem of Gougane Barra, a haven for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike. This hidden paradise offers a multitude of hiking trails that wind their way through the stunning landscape of the Gougane Barra Forest Park.
The Gougane Barra Forest Park boasts a variety of well-marked trails, catering to all levels of walkers and hikers. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a casual walker, there is a path for you to explore amidst the beauty of this untouched wilderness.
2 - Castlefreke, Kilkeran Lake & High Cross
This wonderful, scenic loop walk is roughly 8km (or 6km without the optional section through the forest) and another one of the many wonderful walks and hikes in West Cork. It is marked red (Rathbarry - Kilkeran Loop) on the trail signs and brings you up to the High Cross, overlooking Castlefreke, Rathbarry old churches, onward through Castlefreke Forest, past Kilkeran Lake and along above the Dunes of Long Strand with magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean with Galley Head Lighthouse to the east of the strand.
3 - Mullaghmesha Hill Walk
Mullaghmesha Hill Walk is the perfect escape into nature's embrace. Nestled in the heart of West Cork, this stunning hill walk offers a rich tapestry of sights and sounds that will leave you in awe.
As you ascend, the panoramic views of Bantry Bay and the sprawling countryside unfold before you, inviting you to pause and take in the sheer grandeur of Mother Nature's handiwork.
4 - Carrigfadda Hill Walk
Carrigfadda, with its 7 meter high Marian Cross on top is some 313 metres high. The views from the top, after the steep walk up, are awesome on a clear day. You are treated to magnificent vistas from the Old Head of Kinsale, Galley Head Lighthouse, Cape Clear, Mount Gabriel to Mushera mountain. It is also a wonderful spot for sunrise and sunset, but be mindful of having the right equipment for low light walking and it can get colder quickly after sunset.
5 - Fairy Woods - Rineen, Castlehaven
Picturesque trail dotted with fairy houses and all sorts of magic for kids and those young at heart. Bring boots/wellies, some fairy dust and a mind open to tails of magic. Only a short side-step from the Wild Atlantic Way near Union Hall.
Tip: Beautiful also at sunset for a romantic walk on the section along the water.
All Images(©) by Michel Colaci Photography