The Gearagh forest
The Gearagh is the remains of the only ancient post glacial alluvial forest in western Europe. It consists of a vast area of submerged islands that once supported a rich woodland flora. The islands, for the most part, are covered by the waters of the Lee Hydro-electrical scheme. However, during dry periods numerous rare species of plants can be encountered e.g. mudworth, which is only found in one other location outside the Geragh. This area is also of interest to bird watchers with both Summer and Winter migrants - from October onwards migratory birds arrive in large flocks. The Geragh is a haven of peace and tranquillity and provides ideal opportunities for off road walking.
Address: Macroom, County Cork
Contact: Kevin  Corcoran 
Phone: 026  42251

Doneraile Park
The park comprises approximately 166 hectares and is an outstanding example of an 18th century landscaped park in the 'Capability Brown' style. Mature groves of deciduous trees, several restored water features and a number of deer herds can be viewed along the many pathways within the park. Doneraile Court, the former residence of the Saint Leger Family, is situated within the Park. It will be opened to the public in the future, following the completion of necessary restoration and safety works. The pathways are generally accessible for visitors with disabilities.
Address: Turnpike Road, Doneraile, County Cork
Phone: 022  24244

Millstreet Country Park
Millstreet Country Park en route to Killarney is renowned for its breathtaking landscape and theme gardens with rare shrubs, flowers, herb rich meadow, wetlands and boglands. There are reminders of many aspects of Irish History within the Park - the 4000 year old Stone Circle and Fullacht Fiadh, the 10,000 year old Glacier Boulders (erratics) and the more recent Shepherds Hut. You will find seven hundred red deer roaming the paddocks and many species of birds and wild life. Live music outdoors on Sundays during June, July and August. Piano recitals every Sunday in the visitors centre. Bank holiday weekends - music, fun and games for all the family.
Address: Millstreet , County Cork
Contact: Donie Howard
Phone: 029  70810

The Geragh forest
This is an ancient post-glacial alluvial Forest and is situated on the river Lee, near Macroom in County Cork. It gets its name from "An Gaoire", the wooden river. In 1987 the are was declared a statutory nature reserve. It is an unique and ancient forest system situated on a broad, braided channel where the river leaves the hills and widens out into an alluvial plain, it was formed at the end of the last Ice Age and is the only aluvial forest in Ireland. There are some rare plants to be found as are a large concentration of wildfowl.
Address: Macroom, County Cork
Directions: Located near Macroom and is 39km from Cork City.

The Nano Nagle Centre
The Nano Nagle Centre is a place of great natural beauty between Mallow and Fermoy and is the birthplace on Nano Nagle who was the foundress of the Presentation sisters and the pioneer of Catholic education in the 18th century. In the shelter of the Nagle Mountain, this wildlife sanctuary is bounded by the Blackwater River and generates a peace and tranquility which is associated with sacred places. The centre relates the story of Nano Nagle and the Presentation Sisters in a broad historical and religious context. Facilities include parking for cars and coaches and wheelchair facilities.
Address: Ballygriiffin, Mallow, County Cork
Phone: 022  26411

Carnival Garden
An informal country garden full of colour and scent in rural surroundings consisting of 1 acre of mature trees, shrubs, lawns and herbaceous borders and featuring many cottage garden favourites and much that is unusual and interesting. There is also a variety of organic vegetables including asparagus, cardoons, soft fruits and herbs. The garden is a haven for wild birds with relaxing water and natural stone feature. Carla writes about country life for a national newspaper, gives talks to garden and flower clubs and takes part in the garden walks for visitors. There are car and bus parking facilities and teas can be arranged at time of booking.
Address: Conna, County Cork
Contact: Carla  Blake 
Phone: 058  59184

Cape Clear Bird Observatory
The Island is 5km long by 2km wide with sparkling harbours, cliffs, bogs and lakes. Hostel type accommodation is available on the island for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. Cape Clear Island is Ireland's southerly most inhabited island and is the foremost centre for bird watching. Cape Clear Bird Observatory was set up in 1959 and since then has been manned every spring and autumn and so far as possible at other times of the year. The Observatory is a place where people who are interested in natural history can stay on a self-catering basis. There is electric lighting, kitchen facilities, showers, toilet, library and dining room.
Address: Cape Clear Island, Skibbereen, County Cork
Contact: The  Warden 
Phone: 021  4273251

Lough Ine
Lough Ine, described as Ireland's singular salt water lake, has many unique properties, immense depth of up to 60 fathoms and is rich in marine fauna. The lake is a marine biologist paradise and its varied flora and fauna provide ongoing fascination for researchers from both Irish and British Universities. The unique marine life of this, the only inland lake in Northern Europe, is protected by law as Lough Ine is a marine reserve, overseen by a Wildlife Ranger. Surrounded by lush woodland, a walk throughthe forest, along the path to the top of the hill overlooking the lake, it is well worth the effort for the panoramic view provided of the rugged West Cork coastline.
Address: Skibbereen, County Cork
Phone: 021  4273251

Foxcovert Garden
Foxcovert is a beautifully planted National Award Winning Garden on 75 acre. This garden, with great atmosphere, reveals an imaginative and creative layout featuring ponds, raised beds, patios, pergola, a summer house, trees, shrubs and herbaccues plants. The garden features an interesting use of old stone and old brick. Directions Foxcovert is located in the Glounthaune just off the main Cork Waterford road, 11km from Midleton. Open May to September daily by appointment 
Address: Lackenroe, Glounthaune, County Cork
Contact: Gobnait  O Flynn 
Phone: 021  4821747