Donal Cam O'Sullivan Beare (1561-1618) commanded the Munster forces at the Battle of Kinsale in 1601. Later, after … [Continue Reading]

Within walking distance of Carriganass Castle is another historic monument, this time one that existed long before Donal … [Continue Reading]

The Riverside Coffee Shop offers you the perfect spot to take a break while you're exploring Carriganass, or walking on … [Continue Reading]

Carriganass Castle tower was built in about 1541 by clan chieftan Dermot O'Sullivan Beare.   The site he chose … [Continue Reading]

A Place in History

The restored ruins of Carriganass Castle on the outskirts of Kealkill village, in the heart of West Cork, played a dramatic role in one of Irish history's most exciting stories when - in 1602 - the O'Sullivan Bere clan passed its gates as they set out to join the Flight of the Earls.
 
Today's walkers, under less pressure to leave, have time to explore the picturesque castle grounds, and to take advantage of the many waymarked routes that wend their way past this amazing monument.
 
Choose from a range of circular routes, or break your tour of the Sheep's Head Way here. Your visit to West Cork isn't complete until you've called in to Carriganass.

A Crucial Staging Post on the Beara-Breifne Way

The development of the Beara-Breifne Way as a major Irish walking route is an undertaking almost as dramatic as the historical event that inspired its creation. In 1602, the owner of Carriganass Castle, Donal Cam O’Sullivan, staged a retreat with his followers from the Battle of Kinsale. Their route brought them past Carriganass Castle, and […]