It’s a massive undertaking.

Ireland’s largest food festival, A Taste of West Cork returns this September 6th-15th, 2019 with 265 fascinating events happening in 50 West Cork towns, villages and islands.

A feast of culinary collaboration, the vast programme features dinners, workshops, cook-offs and challenges between West Cork’s best kitchens and guest chefs from around the world.

You can check out the full line-up here, but these are the events we’ll be nabbing tickets for immediately:

1. Forest bathing at Caherbeg Free Range Farm

Friday, September 6th, 2019

This lovely event in Rosscarbery begins with a contemplative guided walk through the Allshire-Howe family farm and tranquil woodlands, culminating in an assemble-your-own tasting of the very best of West Cork produce. Book it: €55 here.

2. Fastnet Rock Sunset Tour

Friday, September 6th, 2019

Ever dreamed of circumnavigating the famous rock, and perhaps witnessing humpback, fin or minke whales and other spectacular sea life during the trip? This is your chance. Book it: €45 with Aquaventures, Baltimore on 087 796 1456. 

3. Cookie Baking at Top of the Rock Farm

Saturday, September 7th, 2019

This adorable family-friendly day out will see you whisked off to Drimoleague for two hours of fun and learning, with baby animals, egg collecting, curious cattle and wonderful wildlife. The event ends with a cookie baking session and everyone takes home a Farmhand’s Certificate.

4. From the Land, Sea & Shore

Sunday, September 8th, 2019

Four visiting indigenous Australian chefs will join the team at The Eccles Hotel, Glengarriff for a day of foraging and cooking. The visitors will then demonstrate their modern-day skills in a special eight-course tasting menu served in the ‘olde world’ hotel. Book it: €70 on 027 63003. 

5. A Wild Tea Feast

Sunday, September 8th, 2019

Two Green Shoots and The Ewe Experience, Glengarriff will be hosting two afternoon workshops where you can learn how to make your own wild teas in the magical Willy Wonka inspired edible paradise, The Garden of Re-Imagination. Book it: €35 on 027-63840.