The Notebook

The Long Way RoundNotebook No 57June 2025

The back roads of West Cork

From Skibbereen to Schull, by way of nothing in particular.

Collected by Deborah. Read her editorial perspective

We are consistently drawn to West Cork, a region where the N71 highway yields to older tracks. Our preferred journey here is not a direct route, but rather an invitation to unearth the quiet spaces between Skibbereen and Schull. The authentic West Cork reveals itself off the main arteries.

The back roads of West Cork

Slea Head

From Skibbereen, we navigate the tight turn to Lough Hyne, then follow the narrow lane towards Castletownshend, eventually returning through Union Hall. This path, favoring the sea-facing side of each elevation and hollow, provides a distinct perspective on the region, one that rewards slow travel and a readiness to simply wander. This is a half-day commitment, blissfully free of large group conveyances.

This deliberate decision to bypass direct routes and welcome divergence shapes our West Cork journeys.

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From the notebook

Editorial itineraries from Ireland.

Collected notes. A few times each season.