Ever wondered where one of Ireland’s best-known authors loves to eat, explore and unwind?

Louise O’Neill has just shared her dream 48-hour itinerary – and it’s packed with brilliant local recommendations.

The Clonakilty native is the latest guest curator in The River Lee’s Curated Weekends series, following in the footsteps of writer Caroline O’Donoghue, sustainability journalist Jo Linehan, food writer William Murray and actress Siobhán McSweeney.

While the guide is designed as a hotel itinerary, it’s also full of inspiration for anyone planning a weekend around Cork.

Louise, whose bestselling novels include Only Ever Yours and Asking For It, says that although she has lived away from Cork over the years, the county has always drawn her back.

Her ideal weekend starts in Cork city, taking in favourites like the English Market, the Glucksman Gallery and some of her favourite restaurants, before slowing the pace with a facial at KINS and drinks overlooking the water back at The River Lee Hotel.

But it’s when she heads west that things become especially personal.

The itinerary includes a return to her hometown of Clonakilty, where her family has run MJ O’Neill’s butcher shop since 1919.

Louise jokes that she still calls in to “annoy” her dad before leaving with black pudding and honey-and-mustard sausages.

“Put it on my tab,” I say airily. That tab is 40 years old, it’s never getting paid at this stage.”

Other West Cork favourites include Inchydoney Beach, the Model Railway Village, local cafés, independent shops and scenic spots that showcase why the region continues to steal people’s hearts.

Describing the itinerary as a love letter to both the city and the countryside, Louise says it captures everything she loves about Cork — its vibrant food and culture, balanced with the slower pace and beauty of West Cork.

Check out Louise O’Neill’s full Curated Weekend and shopping guide HERE,