You never know who you’ll meet down west.

In fact, Cork’s outrageously gorgeous coast has a knack for attracting Hollywood A-listers aplenty in the warmer months, not least Mr Colin Farrell.

In an interview on The Late Late Show with James Corden back in March, The Banshees of Inisherin star revealed that Castletownbere is one of his favourite places in Ireland to visit with his family.

“There’s a town, at one stage was the second biggest white fish port in Europe, and it’s called Castletownbere,” he said.

“It’s in a part of Ireland, down the southwest, called the Beara Peninsula, and it’s incredibly rugged, and can almost feel hostile, but not fully. The people are really extraordinary, and they’re tough, but they are fundamentally so, so decent.”

Farrell said the spectacular landscape “right on the lip of the Atlantic” keeps him returning to the tiny Cork village, which also holds important memories from the early part of his career:

“It’s also where I did my first professional job when I was 20 or 21 and I’ve been back there since, I’ve taken my kids there so that place holds a special place in my heart,” he added.

Fancy exploring Castletownbere for yourself? Here are three perfect spots to stay:

The Turf Cottage

Book it: €150 per night here

Traditional meets modern in this spacious, fully renovated Farm Cottage. Built from locally cultivated trees and fieldstone, this cosy stay boasts dramatic mountain and valley views, making it a perfect solo escape or a couple’s hideaway.

Inside, custom-made local cabinetry and furnishings sourced from Irish artisan tradespeople make it a dreamy base to unwind in after a day of hiking, an afternoon of meditation at the local Buddist centre, or a night enjoying the local trad.

Pulleen Cottage

Book it: €104 per night here

With three bedrooms and a travel cot available on request, this rustic country cottage sleeps six, making it ideal for a family getaway.

Located 5km from the town of Castletownbere, it’s walking distance to Pulleen Harbour and historic Dunboy Castle so you can spend your days exploring the hills or taking the cable car to Dursey Island, then return to the comfort of a wood-burning stove, cook something delicious and relax.

They even welcome one well-behaved dog so you can bring your canine companion for the holiday.

“Bring carrots,” advises a recent guest. “Fiona the horse gets mad at you if you don’t have any and stomps away giving you side-eye (after running up to you upon arrival).”

The Loft

Book it: €95 per night here

Located on the upper floor of a 200-year-old building on Main Street, this sweet loft space is a modern, comfortable base for a break on the Beara Peninsula.

There’s a queen bed with a memory foam mattress, a full kitchen, a washer/dryer, an electric power shower, and WiFi as well as a chill reading and lounge area. Private parking is included just a minute’s walk from the Town Square and the loft is centrally located for easy access to restaurants, pubs, art galleries, and coffee shops.