Courtmacsherry

Courtmacsherry West Cork

Last Updated: 10th Oct, 2019

"A Quiet Drinking Village with a Fishing Problem"

Courtmacsherry a picturesque seaside village which lies midway between the old head of Kinsale and the Seven Heads, just a short distance from the village of Timoleague, on the rugged West Cork coast, which Courtmac is referred to locally with good humour as "A Quiet Drinking Village with a Fishing Problem".

This charming village was formerly the summer home of the Earl of Shannon who planted many exotic trees, shrubs and woods around the village. The village of Courtmacsherry grew in Victorian times, as a haven for holidaymakers from the city of Cork and as a result several new houses were built.

In 1891 the railway arrived and was an important link to the outside world until its closure in 1961. The sheltered harbour, often giving a cosy sense of calm and security while storms wreck havoc outside.

In the early 18th century, the Coast Guard chased would-be smugglers along the coast from their sheltered haven in Courtmacsherry Bay. Their cottages still dominate the slope overlooking the harbour, still a favourite haunt of anglers and visitors, because of the exceptional flora and fauna of the area. Courtmacsherry Estuary is a great area for bird watching.

Much of the village life centres around the lifeboat service, Courtmacsherry Lifeboat service, with local voluntary crews ensuring that this historic lifeboat station, one of the first established in Ireland, maintains an active role in bringing safety and assistance to sailors in distress. Today we have a vibrant community with several developments taking place to improved facilities such as the refurbished pier and pontoon for boat's and yachts, the promenade and tennis court.

Courtmacsherry village offers the tourist a very enjoyable visit for the energetic there are the many water based activities off Courtmacsherry Pier and for those looking to take it easy you can enjoy some tranquil rural walks or visit to the beaches and coves. With all the little coves and bays to be explored in Courtmacsherry such as, Dunworley Bay, Broadstrand Bay and Clonakilty Bay, they offer some great fishing and angling spots for the keen fisherman.

The Seven Heads Peninsula located between Clonakiltyand Courtmacsherry offers wonderful views out over West Corks dramatic coastline and is a great area for walking with lots of local flora and fauna to be seen along the walk, as it takes a varied and interesting path. Nearby beach areas include Courtmacsherry Strand, Coolmain Strand, Broadstrand, Harbour View and Howestrand. Boats for fishing can be hired out from the Courmacsherry Sea Angling Centre. Whale and Dolphin watching trips can also be taken from Courtmacsherry Pier. The Courtmacsherry Harbour Festival and especially the Regatta Day is a great family festival event.

The visitor to Courtmacsherry is free to wander and enjoy this peaceful tranquil setting, stroll along the village, through the beautiful Courtmacsherry Woods, leading to the waters edge, and take in the Fuchsia Way also. The Seven Heads Walk from Timoleague village to Courtmacsherry along some great West Cork coastline, along Dunworley and back to Timoleague will let you experience the beauty of this area. Just a short drive away are the Coolum Cliffs knows as the second highest cliffs in Ireland. This peaceful village is also an ideal spot to enjoy some horse riding along the village and the narrow local roads. Not to be missed are Courtmacsherrys July Strand Races. Or why not stroll along to Courtmacsherrys Country Market for some locally caught fish, fruit and vegetables, local home baked cakes, jams, pickles and much more. September in Courtmacsherry is the time of the Storytelling Festival a weekend of music and storytelling held in the village for all to enjoy.

Courtmacsherry is just an hours drive from Cork City travelling out from Wilton, Bishopstown, Ballinhassig, Innishannon, Bandon and finally Timoleague and then Courtmacherry, a lovely route to drive and stop along the way.