Things to see and do in Cork

Sprawling greens and emerald fields - County Cork is no doubt a destination for those who want to spend a few peaceful days in a lovely city. Away from the hustle and bustle of urban living, Cork city offers beautiful sights to visit and many interesting activities.

To get there, you can either ride a plane or rent a car to drive around Ireland. It is easier if you would rent a car, because you can go anywhere you want, given Cork's wide range of places to go to.

If you want to take a closer look at Cork's history, you may want to visit Kinsale. This town is famous for one of the significant Irish battles in 1601. At present, it has left a heritage of Georgian as well as Victorian architecture and Charles Fort, a star-shaped fort built in 1677, which remained a garrison until 1922. If you want a more bizarre experience, go to the Skibbereen Heritage Center to learn more about the 1840s famine that affected the area or walk along the Skibbereen trails and read the bronze plaques.

For some animal adventure, a visit to the Fota Wildlife Park will be most enjoyable. The park lets endangered animals such as giraffes, zebras and cheetahs wander around the Fota Estate, so don't let them catch you! If you want to go dolphin or whale-watching, the Mizen Head is the perfect place to spot these amazing sea creatures. Located high on the cliffs, this Signal Station was built to warn approaching boats of the dangerous rocks ahead. From this point, you can also get a breathtaking view of the peninsula.

Aside from historical museums, wine museums are also found in Cork. The Desmond Castle International Museum of Wine in Kinsale tells of its history as a Wine port during the 1500s and its effects on the town.

If you are more of the sporty type, you can go cycling, sailing, canoeing, diving, horse racing, windsurfing and play golf at Cork. The Seven Heads Peninsula is a popular site for cycling and bird-watching. Kinsale, Youghal and Cobh are centers for the watersports mentioned above. You can also play golf at Kinsale and Harbour Point golf club, and many other golf clubs in Cork.

All these and more, you can experience when you visit this lovely city of Cork. But wait! Before you go back home, don't forget to stop by at the Jameson Heritage Center to have a taste of fine Irish whisky!