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Courtmacsherry a picturesque seaside village which lies midway between the
old head of Kinsale and the Seven Heads, just a
short distance from the village of Timoleague, on the rugged West
Cork coast, which Courtmac is referred to locally with good humour
as "A Quiet Drinking
Village with a Fishing Problem".
This charming village was formerly the summer home of the Earl of Shannon who planted many exotic trees, shrubs and woods around the village. The village of Courtmacsherry grew in Victorian times, as a haven for holidaymakers from the city of Cork and as a result several new houses were built.
In 1891 the railway arrived and was an important link to the outside world until its closure in 1961. The sheltered harbour, often giving a cosy sense of calm and security while storms wreck havoc outside.
In the early 18th century, the Coast Guard chased would-be smugglers along the coast from their sheltered haven in Courtmacsherry Bay. Their cottages still dominate the slope overlooking the harbour, still a favourite haunt of anglers and visitors, because of the exceptional flora and fauna of the area.
 Much of the village life centres around the lifeboat service,
Courtmacsherry Lifeboat service, with local voluntary crews ensuring that this historic lifeboat station, one of the first established in Ireland, maintains an active role in bringing safety and assistance to sailors in distress.
Today we have a vibrant community with several developments taking place to improved facilities such as the refurbished pier and pontoon for boat's and yachts, the promenade and tennis court.
Courtmacsherry village offers the tourist a very
enjoyable visit for the energetic there are the many water based activities off Courtmacsherry
Pier and for those looking to take it easy you can enjoy some
tranquil rural walks or visit to the beaches and coves.
With all the little coves and bays to be explored in Courtmacsherry such as, Dunworley Bay,
Broadstrand Bay and Clonakilty
Bay, they offer some great fishing and angling spots for the
keen fisherman.
The Seven Heads Peninsula located between Clonakilty and Courtmacsherry offers wonderful views out over West
Corks dramatic coastline and is a great area for walking with lots
of local flora and fauna to be seen along the walk, as it takes a varied and interesting
path. Nearby beach areas include Courtmacsherry Strand, Coolmain Strand, Broadstrand, Harbour View
and Howestrand. Boats for fishing can be hired out from the Courmacsherry
Sea Angling Centre. Whale and Dolphin watching trips can also be
taken here.
The visitor to Courtmacsherry is free to wander
and enjoy this peaceful tranquil setting, stroll along the
village, through the beautiful Courtmacsherry Woods, leading to
the waters edge, and take in the Fuchsia Way also. Just a
short drive away are the Coolum Cliffs knows as the second highest
cliffs in Ireland. This peaceful village is also an ideal spot
to enjoy some horse riding. Not to be missed are Courtmacsherrys
July Strand Races. Or why not stroll along to Courtmacsherrys Country Market for some locally caught fish, fruit and vegetables,
local home baked cakes, jams, pickles and much more.
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