7 gorgeous spots to enjoy supreme autumn vibes as the leaves turn on Leeside
Ah, autumn – you’re only gorgeous.
There’s that crisp little nip in the air, leaves swapping green for gold, days shrinking just enough to make your evenings feel extra cosy, and that perfect excuse to rock a snug jumper.
Honestly, what’s better than soaking it all in on a proper autumn stroll?
Here are seven spots on Leeside where the season’s magic is impossible to miss:
1. Fitzgerald’s Park
If you’re looking to see a bit of foliage without leaving the bricks and mortar of the city, head down to Fitzy’s. If you didn’t know already, it’s the largest park in all of Cork City. You can enjoy the heritage museum, there’s a playground for the kiddos, and there’s a cafe for coffee.
It’s also fun to pick up a picnic lunch from the English Market and enjoy it beneath the trees or on the riverbank if the weather plays ball.
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2. Ballincollig Regional Park
Ballincollig Regional Park truly comes alive in autumn. Its 135-acre expanse transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colours, offering a serene escape just outside the city. The park’s diverse tree species, including the Shawnee Brave Bald Cypress, showcase rich autumn hues of orange and cinnamon-brown.
With several looped trails, visitors can meander through woodlands, along the River Lee, and past historic gunpowder mill ruins, all while enjoying the crisp autumn air.
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3. Gougane Barra
As if Gougane Barra wasn’t beautiful enough, it becomes absolutely magical during autumn. Located just west of Macroom, it’s the perfect place to truly appreciate the change in season. Whether you spend the day taking in Gouganebarra Lake or take a walk through the national forest you won’t be disappointed.
Fun fact: If you climb high enough through the forest, you can actually find the infant River Lee, a whole 89km away from Cork Harbour. Exploring is thirsty work so there’s plenty of drinks and snacks to go around at the local cafe.
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4. Blarney Castle and Gardens
If there’s one thing lockdown has taught us; it’s that it’s great to be a tourist in your own county.
Blarney Castle and Gardens are located a quick bus ride away from the city and the grounds look positively radiant in the varying colours of autumn. Not only do you get to enjoy hundreds of years worth of history, but the view is exceptional from the top of the castle.
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5. Farran Wood
Whether you’d like to take a hike, go zip-lining, or simply sit and watch animals in their natural habitat – Farran Wood is just as dreamy as you remember it from your childhood visits. There are two main trails to explore; the Enclosure Trail (1.1 km) and The Woodland Loop (3 km). One will take you around the entire deer enclosure and has a fantastic view of the duck pond.
The other will give you a chance to really take in the whole park. Given the diverse mix of trees and shrubbery; you will be left speechless when the autumn colours really start to show. Instagram gold.
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6. Ballymartle Woods
In the mood for a stroll through crisp autumn leaves?
Ballymartle Woodland and Walkway is unveiling its new trails on Sunday, October 5th, with plenty of fun and games lined up for kids that morning.
The refreshed pathways, new signage, and handy seating have already been a hit with summer visitors, and now it’s time to celebrate properly. So pull on your wellies, wrap up warm, and join the official launch at 11am.
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7. Lough Hyne
Hidden away in the countryside around five kilometres from Skibbereen, Lough Hyne is an absolute gem.
The Knockomagh Hill trail overlooks the saltwater lake and the trail will lead you through the lush forest in a full circle. Ireland’s first marine nature preserve, the unique ecosystem, both above and below the water, makes Lough Hyne a truly beautiful spot to enjoy the changing landscape at this time of year.
Braver visitors should bring togs and a towel for a dip – the water is crystal clear.
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Main image: Gouganebarra Hotel
