7 Cork Christmas walk spots where you’ll also find a very good coffee
There’s nothing like a frosty winter walk.
And when the rain takes an occasional day off, you best believe we’re headed for the nearest woods or water body to appreciate the cold slap of Christmas air.
After we’re finished with our ever-so-slightly smug stroll, 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 adventure.
1. Coffee Brothers and a stroll through Fitzgerald’s Park
We will happily walk the dog in exchange for a Kinder Bueno Mocha. Once you’re finished the loop of Fitzgerald’s Park, head down Mardyke Walk and find Coffee Brothers twinkly coffee stall, where all manner of delicious winter drinks are waiting.
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2. Pike Deli and a Clonakilty to Inchydoney walk
The walk from Clonakilty to Inchydoney is about four miles, mostly flat, with much of it by the waterside, offering gorgeous views. There’s free parking by day at the church car park in town. Stop at Pike Deli on Connolly Street first for a coffee and one of their enormous maple buns.
Smart cookies grab a big ‘ole sandwich for the road too.
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3. Cameron Bakery en route through Blackrock Village
The Cork Harbour Greenway runs from Páirc Uí Chaoimh stadium to Passage West, along the route of the former Blackpool — Cork tram line. Stop in picturesque Blackrock Village for an all-important brew at Cameron Bakery on the pier for a decadent chocolate éclair or one of their famous Almond Chocolate croissants while you take in the harbour views.
For a shorter walk, stroll on down The Marina.
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4. The Fish Basket and a long or short stroll in Castlefreke
The Fish Basket is located at the intersection of two very important points in Rosscarbery: the entrance to the Long Strand and the end of the Castlefreke woods.
You can make a long or short day of it at this spot, with a walk through the forest and along the road to Rathbarry (high vis advised as this route involves walking on the road for a spell) before finishing it off with a whip around the Long Strand to really earn your treats. Hit the Fish Basket for a cappuccino or hot chocolate and don’t miss the fish and chips if you’re visiting in the afternoon.
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5. O’Neill 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, 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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6. Bean & Berry and a walk through 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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7. Perked Up Coffee and a wander in 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 Bailey’s flavour that sounds like Christmas in a cup.
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