Skip to main content

CORK & THE SOUTHEAST DESTINATION GUIDE

The best things to do in Cork & the Southeast

Travel inspiration for Your Cork & the Southeast Vacation

Section title Icon

Welcome to Cork & the Southeast! As your Celtic Experts, we’re here to introduce you to the vibrant local restaurants, top sights and best places to stay on your vacation to Ireland. From perfectly-planned guided tours to custom travel packages, we can’t wait to share the traditional experiences of our homelands with you.

Discover Cork & The Southeast

Section title Icon

Explore the best places to eat, see and stay in Cork & the Southeast

  • Kinsale Food Tour
  • Jameson Midleton Distillery
  • Cycle Waterford’s Greenway
  • House of Waterford Crystal
  • Blarney Castle

Top places to eat and drink in Cork & the Southeast

Section title Icon

From hidden gems to iconic sights, these are the best places to start your very own Celtic story in Ireland. No matter where you decide to go, you’ll get authentic experiences hand-picked just for you.

Kinsale Food Tour

Kinsale Food Tour

Taste your way through beautiful Kinsale, County Cork, with an epic showcase of culinary treats. Renowned for the seafood that pairs so beautifully with the salty sea air and riverside views of the River Bandon, you’ll be taken on a tour through the metaphorical belly of the town.

Jameson Midleton Distillery

Jameson Midleton Distillery

For over 200 years, the John Jameson legacy has carried on its traditions through the relentless pursuit of crafting the world’s best, and most famous, Irish whiskey. Go far behind the scenes of the Jameson secrets as you explore its Distillery in Midleton. Tastings are of course included along the way because we know there’s no place better to enjoy a sip than when you’re just a stone’s throw away from where the magic really happens.

What sights to see in Cork & the Southeast

Section title Icon
Cycle Waterford Greenway

Cycle Waterford's Greenway

Ready… set… go! Head outside for a breath of fresh, crisp, Celtic air as you journey deep into the heart of Ireland. The Waterford Greenway was once a railway system that has since been transformed into a long stretch of buttery smooth paved roads; perfect for a leisurely bike ride.

House Waterford Crystal

House of Waterford Crystal

You’ll wind through the fiery noise of glassblowers, mold-shapers, and hand-painters as they teach you the beauty to behold within their intricate details.

Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle & Gardens

A visit to Blarney Castle & Gardens can change your life forever. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of conversing with an Irish local, you’ve probably noticed how quick-witted they are. Want to get in on the secret of their eloquence & humor? To gain the gift of gab, you mustn’t be faint of heart. The only way to empower the stone is by giving it a quick peck while hanging down backwards from the ramparts of this medieval fortress. Is it worth the challenge? Absolutely.

Best places to stay in Cork & the Southeast

Section title Icon
Montenotte

The Montenotte

Stay unique at the award-winning and iconic Montenotte Hotel, Cork's freshest boutique hotel.

Hayfield Manor

Hayfield Manor

As Cork city's sole 5 star hotel, Hayfield Manor provides all the charm of a country house, uniquely posed within two-acres of beautiful gardens, and just a pleasant stroll to the heart of Cork city, the hotel is also located alongside the historic University College Cork.

Butler House

Butler House

Butler House and Garden is the charming Dower House of Kilkenny Castle since 1786. This unique hotel in Kilkenny brings history, charm, romance and a warm welcome to all who visit. Sleep, dine or celebrate those milestones in life in timeless and unique surroundings.

Top trips that visit Cork & the Southeast

Section title Icon
Colorful Doors in Dublin Ireland

Meet Catherine Reilly

As the head of our Brendan team, Catherine has been making friends with the Celtic community for over 35 years so she's learned a thing or two about where to go and what to do in Ireland and Scotland. Check out her own personally hand-crafted collection of all the can't-miss experiences you can have too.

Colorful Doors in Dublin Ireland

Want to learn more about our other destinations?