Official tourism website for Cork, Ireland

Kinsale

Originally a medieval fishing port, historic Kinsale (from the Irish, Ceann tSaile – ‘Head of the Sea’) is one of the most picturesque, popular and historic towns on the south-west coast of Ireland.

Visitors to Kinsale are captivated by its beautiful setting; its long waterfront, yacht-filled harbour, narrow winding streets and brightly painted galleries, shops and houses. The impressive fortifications of Charles Fort and James Fort guard the narrow entrance to the sea.

Just 25km from Cork City, Kinsale is the gateway to scenic ‘West Cork’ and the start/finish point of the ‘Wild Atlantic Way’, the 2,500km coastal journey along Ireland’s western seaboard. Hailed as ‘The Gourmet Capital of Ireland’ there are pubs, cafés, and restaurants to suit all tastes.

Getting to Kinsale

Kinsale is a 40 minute drive south from Cork City and 30 minutes from Cork Airport. It is the southerly starting point for the Wild Atlantic Way. The Old Head Lighthouse is a 15 min drive south from the town.

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