A day on the Cork coast: Cobh and Kinsale

When the city gets too much, head for the water. Cobh and Kinsale are two of the most colourful towns in Ireland, and both make a perfect day out from Cork.

1. 1. The Deck of Cards

   Cobh

   The row of painted houses stepping up the hill, with the cathedral behind them. Best seen from the park below.

2. 2. St Colman's Cathedral

   Cobh

   Towers over the harbour and the whole town. Worth the climb up the hill for the view back down.

3. 3. Spike Island

   Cork Harbour

   A short ferry from Cobh to an island fortress with centuries of stories.

4. 4. The streets of Kinsale

   Kinsale

   Painted shopfronts, narrow lanes and boats in the harbour. Made for wandering.

5. 5. Charles Fort

   Kinsale

   A huge star fort on the edge of the harbour, with a lovely walk out along the water to reach it.

Bring the coast home with you: both towns are in our Around the County collection.