The 10 Best Things to Do in Union Hall, Ireland

Colin Barnes is Ireland's longest established and best known whale watch operator, and has been enthralling whale watchers and wildlife enthusiasts in West Cork since 2001. Cork Whale Watch offers wonderful opportunities to observe marine wildlife in West Cork. These productive coastal waters provide critical feeding habitat for a diversity of species including cetaceans (whales, dolphins, and porpoises), seals and sea birds, along with prolific fish life.If you've seen natural history documentaries on whales from anywhere in Co. Cork or Waterford, the chances are it was filmed from the MV Holly Jo. Among Colin's contributions are: RTE's "Wild trials", "Wild Journeys", "Living the Wildlife" and in recent years Colin has worked with both BBC Autumnwatch and Winterwatch and BBC Seasons to film large whales off the Cork coast. As a former fisherman of 40 years experience observing whales in West Cork, Colin may not have letters after his name, but those that do, know who to contact if they need to find, film or carry out research on whales and dolphins along the Cork coast. Colin has contributed to and co-authored scientific publications on both fin and humpback whales in collaboration with Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG), and contributes to the All-Ireland Cetacean Sighting Scheme, by reporting sightings data to IWDG. Colin is a rare breed of conservationist, who has evolved from the fishing industry, his passion and understanding of local marine ecosystems is second to none. Colin is available for longer filming and research charters year round.

Smugglers Cove is a family run outdoor centre for all ages. From the pirate themed adventure golf, Smugglers timber maze, fully floodlight golf driving range, coffee shop, and spectacular viewing deck are all available on site all year round. From the middle of July to the middle of September we open Ireland's largest corn maize maze, which is a big hit for all the family. There is ample parking available in our 3 parking areas.

Skibbereen Heritage Centre's Great Famine Exhibition tells the poignant story of this pivotal period in Irish history. Skibbereen became notorious as one of the worst affected areas in all of Ireland and this tragic era is now brought to life via the latest multimedia technology. Walk or take a virtual tour of sites associated with the Great Famine that still exist today including the mass graves where almost 10,000 people are buried. At Skibbereen Heritage Centre you can also discover the unique nature of Lough Hyne, a salt-water lake just 5km from Skibbereen which is Europe's first Marine Nature Reserve. Find out about the history, folklore and formation of this renowned natural phenomenon with a multi-lingual audio-visual display and follow with a trip to the lake and follow the Knockomagh Wood Nature Trail which overlooks the lake. Skibbereen Heritage Centre also offers a genealogy service for the greater West Cork area, an archaeology trail, a gift shop, reference library and a great welcome!

We run two fully licenced charter boats from Union Hall pier, West Cork. Full or half day Sea Angling trips, custom length trips also available, Sightseeing, Pleasure trips and wild life tours. Wreck, reef, shark and Ground fishing in the rich waters of West Cork. Rods and tackle provided.

Escape to the crystal clear sheltered waters of Bantry Bay, West Cork, Ireland for professional Yacht Cruising Training and Powerboat Training or simply to have some fun on the water with kayak and canoe rental and paddle with the seals within Adrigole Harbour. Come and visit our purpose built water side centre set in one of Europe's most beautiful harbours - Adrigole Harbour, off Bantry Bay.

Join us for the trip of a lifetime exploring the fruitful waters of West Cork. Whether you seek Whales and Dolphins, an angling trip or the adrenaline rush of Shark fishing, we aim to give you what you need. Our Charter boat has comfortable Seating for 12, toilet facilities and a skipper who aims to please