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Ballycotton Cliff Walk
Ballycotton, Co. Cork
Set off on a stunning coastal walk through rural Cork on an unforgettable stroll on the Ballycotton Cliff Walk. Take in unparalleled views of the roaring Atlantic Ocean and watch as waves crash into the base of the Ballycotton Cliffs.

Start off in the beautiful harbourside village of Ballycotton in wonderful East Cork. Grab a cup of coffee and plan your day along the Cork coastline. Find the trailhead beside the Mary Stanford Lifeboat and take in uninterrupted views of lush meadows meeting rugged coast and the glistening Atlantic Ocean.

Gaze out to the ocean and see ferries sail to Ballycotton Island, home to one of Ireland's only two black lighthouses. The waters around the Ballycotton Cliff Walk are popular with dolphins, so keep an eye out for pods playing in the waves.

Enjoy a 9.25km walk that takes about 3 hours to complete from Ballycotton and back again via Ballyandreen and country roads. If you want to stay by the coast for the entirety, just head back the way you came once you reach Ballandreen, this route is 7km in total.

Trail details

Grade:
Strenuous trail
Format:
Loop trail
Length:
9.25km
    Time:3 hours
Why we like it
  • Enjoy a fantastic coastal walk with gorgeous views.
  • See one of only two black lighthouses in Ireland.
  • Watch for dolphins playing in the ocean.
  • Choose from a loop walk through the countryside or return via the coastal path.
Contact details
Seven, 51°49'29. 8°00'30.7"W, Ballycotton East, Ballycotton, Co. Cork, Ireland
Leave no trace
  • Plan ahead and prepare
  • Be considerate of others
  • Respect farm animals and wildlife
  • Travel and camp responsibly
  • Leave what you find
  • Dispose of waste properly
  • Protect nature from fire
More to discover at Ballycotton Cliff Walk
SummerBallycotton Sea Adventures

Ballycotton Sea Adventures run boat trips and charters around Ballycotton Bay, County Cork, and the surrounding scenic coastline. The 90 minute guided tour of the lighthouse and Ballycotton Island is very popular and you may even spot some dolphins and whales.

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