- Blarney Castle and Gardens: This world-famous estate features 60 acres of enchanting gardens surrounding the historic castle and the legendary Blarney Stone. Highlights include the romantic Rock Close with ancient yew trees and druidic stones, a prehistoric fern garden, a deadly poison garden displaying toxic plants like wolfsbane and mandrake, and vibrant herbaceous borders — a magical blend of folklore, woodland walks, and formal planting that captivates visitors year-round.
- Garinish Island (Ilnacullin): An exquisite 37-acre “garden island” in Glengarriff Harbour, accessible by boat, this masterpiece by Harold Peto showcases an enchanting mix of manicured formal gardens and natural rocky landscape. The Italian Garden features a sunken ornate pool, the Grecian Temple offers panoramic views, and exotic collections from New Zealand, Chile, and beyond thrive in the mild microclimate, with rhododendrons, azaleas, and vibrant summer blooms creating a paradise of international horticulture.
- Fota Arboretum and Gardens: Part of the magnificent Fota House estate in Cork Harbour, this internationally renowned arboretum and walled pleasure gardens span acres of mature parkland. Superb collections of champion trees, subtropical plants, and seasonal displays complement the Regency-period house, providing a haven of relaxation with diverse flora, lakeside paths, and inspirational planting schemes — ideal for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts alike.
- Bantry House and Gardens: Perched overlooking stunning Bantry Bay, this historic Georgian house boasts dramatic tiered terraces descending to the sea, bisected by the grand Hundred Steps. The gardens include formal parterres, woodland walks, a walled garden, and breathtaking vistas, blending 18th-century design with romantic natural elements — a true highlight of West Cork’s horticultural heritage.
Gardens to Visit
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
Cork:
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