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Rincolisky Castle is a beautiful medieval castle located in County Cork, Ireland. The castle is situated on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. In this travel guide, I will provide you with all the information you need to know to plan your visit to Rincolisky Castle.
History
Rincolisky Castle was built in the 15th century by the O’Driscoll clan, one of the most powerful seafaring clans in Ireland. The castle was strategically located at the mouth of the Dunmanus Bay, which allowed the O’Driscolls to control the sea traffic in the area. The castle was originally built as a fortress, with thick walls and a tower that could be used for surveillance and defense.
Over the centuries, the castle changed hands several times, and it was used for various purposes, including as a residence, a garrison, and a prison. In the early 20th century, the castle was abandoned and fell into disrepair. In the 1990s, the castle was restored by the Irish government, and it is now open to the public as a tourist attraction.
Getting There
Rincolisky Castle is located in County Cork, which is in the southwest of Ireland. The easiest way to get there is by car. If you are coming from Dublin, it will take you around three hours to drive to Rincolisky Castle. From Cork, it will take you around two hours. The roads in the area are well-maintained, and the scenery is breathtaking, so the drive is definitely worth it.
If you don’t have access to a car, you can also take a bus to the nearby town of Goleen, which is about 2 km from the castle. From Goleen, you can walk or take a taxi to the castle.
Opening Hours and Admission
Rincolisky Castle is open to the public from April to October. The opening hours are from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and the last admission is at 5:30 pm. The castle is closed on Mondays.
The admission fee for adults is €10, and for children under 16 years old, it is €5. Family tickets are also available for €25, which covers two adults and up to three children.
Guided Tours
Guided tours of Rincolisky Castle are available, and they are highly recommended. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will provide you with fascinating insights into the castle’s history and architecture.
The tours last around 45 minutes to an hour, and they cover the castle’s various rooms, including the great hall, the tower, and the chapel. The guides will also take you outside to show you the castle’s impressive exterior and to give you an idea of what the castle would have looked like in its heyday.
The guided tours cost an additional €5 per person, but they are well worth the extra cost.
Things to See and Do
Rincolisky Castle has a lot to offer visitors. Here are some of the highlights:
Great Hall
The great hall is the largest room in the castle, and it was used for banquets and other important events. The room is beautifully restored, and you can see the original stone walls and the large fireplace.
Tower
The tower is the highest point of the castle, and it was used for surveillance and defense. You can climb to the top of the tower for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the Atlantic Ocean.
Chapel
The chapel is a small, but beautiful room that was used for religious services. The room is adorned with stunning stained glass windows and intricate stonework.
Exhibitions
There are several exhibitions throughout the castle that provide additional information about the castle’s history, architecture, and the people who lived there. The exhibitions include artifacts such as weapons, clothing, and household items.
Coastal Walks
Rincolisky Castle is situated on a beautiful stretch of coastline, and there are several walking trails that allow you to explore the area. The walks offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged Irish coastline.
Birdwatching
The area around Rincolisky Castle is home to a variety of bird species, including puffins, gannets, and terns. Birdwatching is a popular activity in the area, and there are several viewing platforms that offer excellent views of the birds.
Beaches
There are several beautiful beaches near Rincolisky Castle, including Barleycove Beach and Crookhaven Beach. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Accommodation
If you are planning to visit Rincolisky Castle, there are several accommodation options available in the area. Here are some of the most popular options:
Goleen Harbour Cottages
Goleen Harbour Cottages are located just a short distance from Rincolisky Castle. The cottages are spacious and well-equipped, and they offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Atlantic Ocean.
Dunmanus Castle
Dunmanus Castle is a beautiful 18th-century castle that has been converted into a hotel. The hotel offers luxurious accommodations and excellent dining options, and it is located just a short drive from Rincolisky Castle.
Barleycove Beach Holiday Park
Barleycove Beach Holiday Park is a family-friendly holiday park that offers a range of accommodations, including caravans, camping pitches, and self-catering cottages. The park is located close to Barleycove Beach and is a short drive from Rincolisky Castle.
Final Thoughts
Rincolisky Castle is a fascinating and beautiful medieval castle that is definitely worth a visit. The castle’s history, architecture, and stunning location make it a must-see attraction in County Cork. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or just want to soak up the stunning scenery, Rincolisky Castle has something for everyone.
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