Skibbereen Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and explore in Skibbereen, a charming town in Southwest Ireland.


Introduction to Skibbereen

Nestled in the charming Southwest region of Ireland, Skibbereen is a delightful town that offers visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich culture and history. With its picturesque natural beauty and welcoming locals, Skibbereen is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to experience Ireland’s hospitality and scenic landscapes.

List of Places to Visit in Skibbereen

Whether you’re exploring Skibbereen for a few days or a week, there’s plenty to see and do in this charming town. Here are our top picks for the best places to visit in Skibbereen:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Skibbereen Heritage Centre: A must-visit museum that tells the story of Skibbereen and its surrounding areas, known as the “The Famine Village”. The museum also chronicles Ireland’s history, including the Great Famine, the Irish War of Independence, and more.
  • The Abbeystrewry Graveyard: A fascinating historical site that contains the ruins of an old chapel and many interesting grave markers from several centuries.
  • Lisheen Mine: This former copper mine is now a popular tourist attraction, where visitors can explore the tunnels and learn about the area’s mining history.

Natural Attractions of Skibbereen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lough Hyne: A stunning marine lake that is one of the few saltwater lakes in Europe. Visitors can explore the lake by kayaking or hiking up the nearby hill for spectacular views of the area.
  • The Roaring Water Bay: A picturesque bay located on the Western coast of Skibbereen, with plenty of opportunities for water sports activities such as kayaking, fishing, and sailing.
  • Cape Clear Island: A beautiful and enchanting island located off the coast of Skibbereen and one of the few Irish-language speaking communities in Ireland. Visitors can take a ferry ride to the island to explore its rugged beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Skibbereen

Skibbereen is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, especially hikers and bikers. Here are some of the best routes to explore the area’s natural beauty:

  • The Lough Hyne Loop Walk: A 4km circuit trail that winds through the surrounding hills and provides breathtaking views of Lough Hyne.
  • The Three Castle Loop Cycle: A picturesque 30km cycle route that winds through the Skibbereen countryside and passes by three historic castles.
  • The Roaring Water Bay Walk: A beautiful walking route that follows the Skibbereen coastline and offers stunning views of the Roaring Water Bay and the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Skibbereen: Activities and Tours

Aside from exploring the town’s natural and cultural attractions, there are plenty of other exciting things to do in Skibbereen. Here are some of our top picks:

  • The Skibbereen Farmers’ Market: A vibrant and colorful farmers market that takes place every Saturday in the town center. It offers visitors a chance to taste the best local produce and crafts.
  • The West Cork Distillery Tour: A fascinating tour that takes visitors through the process of making Irish whiskey, and of course, offers opportunities to taste different types of whiskey.
  • The Skibbereen Eagle Wingspan Experience: A unique and thrilling experience that takes visitors up in a hot air balloon for a panoramic view of the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Skibbereen

Here’s an ideal week-long itinerary to make the most out of Skibbereen and its surroundings:

Day Activities
1 Visit Skibbereen Heritage Centre, followed by an afternoon exploring the Abbeystrewry Graveyard.
2 Day trip to Lough Hyne and the surrounding area, including a hike on the Lough Hyne Loop Walk.
3 Explore the Skibbereen Farmers’ Market in the morning, followed by a visit to the West Cork Distillery Tour in the afternoon.
4 Spend the day at Roaring Water Bay, trying out various water sports activities and enjoying the scenic views.
5 Visit the Lisheen Mine in the morning, followed by a trip to Cape Clear Island in the afternoon.
6 Cycle the Three Castle Loop Cycle in the morning, followed by a hot-air balloon ride for a fabulous view of the Skibbereen landscape.
7 Relax and unwind by the sea or enjoy a last minute visit back to one of your favourite spots to ensure that you have not missed anything.

Food and Drink Scene of Skibbereen

Skibbereen and the surrounding region are well known for their culinary delights and famous for their abundant fresh produce and seafood. Here are some must-try food and drink options in Skibbereen:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish & Chips: A classic dish made with fresh haddock or cod, battered and fried to crispy perfection, and served with chips (fries) and tartar sauce.
  • Mussels: Fresh mussels are plentiful in the area and can be found in many local restaurants. They are often served in a savory broth with some brown bread to mop up the juices.
  • Black Pudding: A traditional Irish dish made with pig’s blood, oatmeal, and spices. It is often served as part of a full Irish breakfast and is a must-try for any adventurous foodie.

Local Beverages

  • Guinness: Available throughout Ireland, the famous Irish stout is a must-try for anyone visiting the country. It has a dark and creamy taste that pairs well with many of the local dishes.
  • Irish Whiskey: Definitely try a local whiskey such as Jameson, Paddy, or Bushmills at a local pub. And don’t forget to try the exclusive offering from the West Cork Distillery.

Where to Stay in Skibbereen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There is a wide range of accommodation options in Skibbereen and its surrounding villages, ranging from cozy B&B houses to luxury hotels with stunning sea views. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Liss Ard Estate: This beautiful 19th-century estate is located just a few kilometers from Skibbereen and features luxurious accommodation, extensive gardens, and a lake.
  • Casey’s of Baltimore: An award-winning hotel located in the seaside village of Baltimore and featuring stunning views of the Atlantic.
  • The Olde Bakery: A beautifully restored guesthouse located in the heart of Skibbereen town, offering guests a cozy stay in a historical building.

What to Buy in Skibbereen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Skibbereen, here are some of the best local products and souvenirs to bring home with you:

  • Irish Sweaters: These cozy wool sweaters are a classic Irish souvenir and make for an excellent gift or memento of your trip.
  • Pottery and Crafts: Skibbereen and the surrounding area have a vibrant artisanal scene, producing beautiful crafts and pottery that make for unique and delightful souvenirs.
  • Local Foods: Bring home some local jams, chutneys, and cheese to savor the taste of Skibbereen after your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Skibbereen

Skibbereen is a deeply traditional Irish town, with a rich cultural heritage that includes music, dance, and storytelling. Visitors can experience plenty of local customs and traditions, including:

  • Traditional Irish Music Sessions: Many local pubs host traditional Irish music sessions, called “seisiúns,” regularly. These are a great opportunity to experience the local culture and perhaps even join in with a bit of singing or dancing.
  • Gaelic Sports: The local community is often involved in Gaelic Football and Hurling, two traditional Irish sports. You might get a chance to watch a game or even join in with one of the local teams.
  • Language: As mentioned, Cape Clear Island is one of the few Irish-language speaking communities left in Ireland. Visitors can get a glimpse of the local language, customs, and culture on the island.

Best Time to Visit Skibbereen

Skibbereen is a great destination to visit year-round, with each season offering its own unique charm. Summer is the most popular time to visit, with long days and plenty of sunshine. However, the spring or fall is often a more peaceful time to visit, with fewer tourists and milder weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of Skibbereen

Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when exploring Skibbereen:

Do:

  • Do explore the local hiking and biking routes, as this is one of Skibbereen’s major attractions.
  • Do try the local seafood and produce; Skibbereen is renowned for its culinary delights.
  • Do visit the local pubs for a taste of authentic Irish music and culture.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the hiking trails and coastline.
  • Don’t miss out on opportunities to experience local Irish customs and traditions.
  • Don’t be afraid to chat with the locals. Irish people are welcoming and hospitable people.

Safety and Health

Safety in Skibbereen

Skibbereen is a safe and friendly town, with very low levels of crime and a welcoming community. Visitors should take normal precautions against pickpocketing and theft.

Health in Skibbereen

Ireland has a good health care system that is accessible to everyone. Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage for their stay in Ireland.

Getting to Skibbereen: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several transportation options to reach Skibbereen, including:

Airports Near Skibbereen

The closest airports to Skibbereen are Cork Airport and Kerry Airport.

Bus Stations Near Skibbereen

Skibbereen is serviced by several transportation companies, including Bus Éireann and Aircoach. There are also local taxis available.

Other Options

Renting a car is a popular option for exploring Ireland’s countryside and coastal regions. Car rentals are readily available upon arrival at the airport, and many visitors prefer the flexibility and convenience of having their own vehicle.

How to Get Around in Skibbereen

Skibbereen is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot or by bike. Taxis are also available for those who prefer not to walk or bike.

Where to Go Next from Skibbereen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several charming nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can explore from Skibbereen, including:

  • Baltimore: A picturesque seaside village with fantastic seafood restaurants and a bustling harbor.
  • Kinsale: A beautiful town famous for its stunning views and delicious food scene.
  • Clonakilty: A lively town with a rich history, music scene, and plenty of interesting shops and galleries.

Conclusion

Skibbereen is a hidden gem in the Southwest of Ireland, a place where visitors can experience the country’s rich cultural heritage and explore its stunning natural beauty. Whether it’s hiking, biking, or tasting the local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this charming town.

Maid of Erin statue, erected 1904 Maid of Erin statue, erected 1904 Poulgorm Bridge to Union Hall Poulgorm Bridge to Union Hall St Patrick's Cathedral St Patrick's Cathedral