About Bantry
who we are and what you can expect when you visit
Bantry is a modern harbour town at the heart of West Cork. It is located along the Wild Atlantic Way touring route in southwest Ireland. Bantry is hemmed in by high mountain ridges, an azure blue sea and cascading mountain streams. This results in a place of unparalleled beauty, where the landscape changes with every mood of wind and sky. It is a region of lush vegetation, palm trees and semi-tropical flowers.
The character of the Bantry and West Cork people is considered the most friendly, helpful, outgoing, quick witted nature in Ireland. We possess the gift of unlimited conversation with a great sense of humour. West Cork is recognised as one of the last bastions of true Irish hospitality and we are proud that Bantry is at the very heart of it. You are assured a warm welcome.
Who & Where We Are
Bantry is named after one of Conor MacNeasa’s sons – Beannt – and generation upon generation have shaped and reshaped the town’s topography. This has made it what it is today, a jewel at the head of one of Europe’s deepest natural harbours.
Visitors will find peace and tranquillity here. Discover the splendour of mountain scenery, hilly pastures, meandering streams, lakes and woods. Perhaps explore megalithic monuments and ruins of monastic settlements which dot the countryside. In addition, the landscape is mountainous with parallel ridges running through the various peninsulas to the sea. The rest of the terrain is occupied by valleys, hills, fast running rivers and hidden glens.
Bantry is the gateway to three surrounding peninsulas: The Beara Peninsula, The Sheep’s Head or in Irish (Muintir Bhaire) Peninsula and thirdly, The Mizen Peninsula. These extend south-west in the Atlantic up to 30 miles. Therefore, Bantry is the perfect base for your trip to West Cork.
The climate here is very mild with moist Atlantic breezes giving a medium to heavy rainfall. The influence of the Gulf Stream of warm sea water has a pronounced effect on the climate here. For instance, it allows the growth of semi-topical vegetation and foliage which can be savoured in many gardens in Bantry.
What You Can Expect
Furthermore, if you’re a nature lover, a history buff, a seeker of tranquillity or a lover of gastronomic pleasures, it’s all here for you. In other words, spend time in our town, savouring its delights, or use it as a launching pad to explore the wonderful coastal countryside of West Cork.
Touring routes are numerous and include breath-taking scenery around each of the peninsulas. Spectacular winding roads, part of the Wild Atlantic Way, take you through mountains and cliff-face roadways. Enjoy the unrivalled vistas of mountain lakes, waterfalls, fast running rivers, prehistoric monuments, ancient castles, forts and stately homes with majestic gardens.
In summary, you will find plenty of things to do in Bantry. Take the time to enjoy our fantastic eateries, perhaps to enjoy our famous Bantry Bay Mussels or to have a pint in our friendly bars and pubs.
We look forward to welcoming you.
Festivals & Events
We have a fantastic line up of festivals and events throughout the year in Bantry.
Plan Your Visit to Bantry
Stay in Bantry
Bantry offers a vast array of hotels, B & Bs, camping, glamping and self-catering options.
Eat & Drink in Bantry
Plenty of choice when it comes to eating and drinking in Bantry with a vast selection of restaurants, cafés, bars and pubs serving food.
Things to Do in Bantry
Whether you are looking for indoor or outdoor activities, heritage or shopping, Bantry has it all.
How to Get Here
Bantry is located in southern Ireland at the heart of West Cork. It is part of the Wild Atlantic Way touring route and is surrounded by some of the most majestic landscapes in Ireland. It’s time to visit West Cork – it’s time to visit Bantry!