5 Cork Christmas walk spots where you’ll also find a very good coffee
There’s nothing like a winter walk.
And when the rain takes a day off, especially at the weekend, you best believe we’re out the gap, quick as a wink, headed for the nearest woods to appreciate the cold slap of Christmas air, the last fall of the trees, and the sharp silhouettes of winter.
After we’re finished with our ever-so-slightly smug walk in the woods, we love to head to the nearest coffee shop, rosy-cheeked, for coffee to tease out the rest of the day and bask in the satisfying rush that only comes from making the most of life.
If you catch a fine day over the coming months, take yourself off to any of these beautiful spots around Cork and grab yourself a coffee before or after your arm-pumping adventure to really make the most of the season:
1. Cameron Bakery on the Cork Greenway
If you’ve been meaning to head down to the new Marina Park and greenway but keep putting it on the long finger, take this as a sign to go the next chance you get. Not only is there the stunning riverside walk through a canopy of trees, but you can also snake around Páirc Uí Chaoimh to the Marina Park, check out the Atlantic Pond, and even catch a GAA game before heading towards the greenway and picturesque Blackrock village.
Stop off at the Cameron Bakery on the pier to grab a large latte and pastry, browse the stalls at their Sunday Market and take in the harbour views.
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2. The Fish Basket in Castlefreke
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3. O’Neill’s Coffee Shop after Lough Hyne
At Lough Hyne, located just off the road to Baltimore, you’ll find a moderately-challenging loop walk that takes you through the hilly south-facing Knockomagh woods.
The ground might be a bit soft after all the rain we’ve had, so make sure you bring a sturdy pair of boots. Alternatively, you can stay above sea level and take the road that hooks to the right of the lough until you hit the pier.
There are some fabulous views of the ‘island’ down this way. After you’ve taken in all that beauty, head back into Skibbereen for hot cocoa in O’Neills. Look out for the most fabulous portrait of Daniel O’Donnell staring at you from the bathroom wall.
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4. Bean & Berry and the Garrettstown Woods
We all know Garrettstown for its magnificent beach, but just a few kilometres up the road, you can find the sprawling Garrettstown Woods and recreational area, ideal for a peaceful stroll at this time of year.
If you’re really feeling adventurous, you can chance a dip after your walk and follow it all up with a piping hot americano from the crew at Bean & Berry.
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5. Perked Up Coffee at Farran Woods
You won’t find Rudolf or Prancer in Farran Woods, but you might just be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of their cousins- the wild Cork deer and stags who hang out in the vicinity.
Stop off at Perked Up Coffee for a tasty flat white to warm your hands as you walk- there’s a new Bailey’s flavour that sounds like Christmas in a cup.
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