Leonardo Hotels Guide to... Cork's hidden gems

Located in the South West of Ireland, Cork is fondly regarded by the locals as the ‘real capital of Ireland’! The river Lee meanders through the pretty city centre which is quite literally buzzing with fantastic restaurants, lively bars, cosy cafes and gives the best views when shopping in Cork.  If that wasn’t enough, the county of Cork has just as much to offer as the city centre with stunning scenery, beaches, islands and more all on the doorstep of Cork city. To help you plan a trip off the beaten track, we have put together Leonardo Hotel Guide to Cork’s hidden gems.

Dursey Island 

Dursey Island – Nigel Cox/CCBY (image and image size have been modified)

If you’re looking to get away from it all, then Dursey Island offers the perfect escape!

Located in the western tip of the Beara Peninsula in the west of County Cork, and just 6.5km long and 1.5km wide, Dursey is one of the most beautiful locations in Ireland. It’s also home to Ireland’s only cable car which connects it to the mainland. Be sure to look down as you commute over the water as dolphins and whales are regular visitors to the rich waters that surround Dursey! With only a handful of permanent residents, the island is a must for those who want to see the idyllic landscape.

Dursey has no shops, pubs or restaurants, so why not pack a picnic and soak up the scenery of this hidden gem!

Butter Museum

Cork Butter Museum - William Murphy/Creative Commons(image and image size have been modified)

A unique destination for those who fancy something a little bit different! Located in the historic Shandon area of Cork city, and and a stones’ throw from Leonardo Hotel Cork, this museum offers a fascinating description of the butter trade in Ireland. Learn about the craft and see videos and displays on the culture of butter making in Ancient Ireland.

O’Conaill’s Chocolate Shop

Calling all chocolate lovers! Go loco for cocoa at O’Conaill’s Chocolate Shop, a haven of mouth-watering chocolate goodies. A family-run business, locals swear by O’Conaill’s hot chocolate, but if that’s not your thing they also have chocolate gifts, sweets and even chocolates moulded into local designs. Located on French Church Street, this is definitely one of the sweetest spots in Co. Cork!

Garnish Island

Italian Garden - Florian Fuchs/Creative Commons(image and image size have been modified)

Not to missed on a trip to Cork! Garnish is world renowned for its gardens which are laid out in beautiful walks and it has some stunning specimen plants, incredibly rare in the Irish climate.Why not visit Seal Island on your way? There’s almost 250 friendly seals living there and you can see them basking on the rocks and posing for photos without a care in the world.

With so many hidden gems just waiting to be found, Cork is the perfect spot for a weekend trip. Leonardo Hotel Cork is ideally located by the river Lee and is the perfect starting point for your off the beaten track adventure!