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Pooleen Wood: Glengarriff's Enchanting Waterfall Walk

Discover Pooleen Wood in Glengarriff: A serene nature escape with ancient woodlands, a cascading waterfall, and diverse wildlife in County Cork.

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Pooleen Wood, nestled within the Glengarriff Nature Reserve in County Cork, Ireland, offers a tranquil escape into a world of ancient woodlands and cascading waterfalls. This hidden gem invites visitors to explore its well-marked trails, discover diverse wildlife, and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the Irish countryside.

A brief summary to Pooleen Wood

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility of the woods and increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
  • Wear sturdy footwear, as some trails can be uneven and potentially muddy, especially near the waterfall.
  • Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery, including the waterfall, lush woodlands, and diverse flora and fauna.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions in woodland areas can change rapidly.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Glengarriff village, Pooleen Wood is accessible via a scenic walk. Head towards the Glengarriff Nature Reserve entrance, located approximately 1 km from the village on the Kenmare Road (N71). The walk takes around 20 minutes (1.5 km) through picturesque landscapes. Follow the well-marked path into the reserve; no specific entrance fee is required to access Pooleen Wood within the Glengarriff Nature Reserve.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by public transport, take Bus Éireann route 236 or 270 to Glengarriff. From the Glengarriff bus stop, it's a short walk to the Glengarriff Nature Reserve entrance. Follow the walking directions to Pooleen Wood. A single bus fare from Cork to Glengarriff costs approximately €11-€17. The bus journey from Cork takes approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes.

  • Car

    If driving, head towards Glengarriff on the N71. From Cork, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 12 minutes. Once in Glengarriff, follow signs to Glengarriff Nature Reserve. Parking is available at the reserve's main car park. Parking may incur a small fee of around €5 for the day. Due to tour buses during the tourist season, parking may be limited near the pier. Additional parking can be found along the top of the road.

Unlock the Best of Pooleen Wood

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Discover more about Pooleen Wood

Pooleen Wood, a captivating section of the Glengarriff Nature Reserve, is a haven of natural beauty located near Glengarriff village in County Cork. The name 'Pooleen' derives from the Irish 'An Poillín', meaning 'small lake or pool,' a reference to the impressive pool carved by the Glengarriff River. This area forms part of the Glengarriff Woodland Special Area of Conservation, renowned for its old Sessile oak trees, considered second in importance only to those in Killarney. As you wander through Pooleen Wood, you'll be surrounded by a lush landscape shaped by a mild, oceanic climate influenced by the Gulf Stream. This unique environment fosters a rich diversity of flora, including Mediterranean and Lusitanian species, and provides a habitat for various wildlife, including six bat species. The sound of the Glengarriff River accompanies you as you explore the trails, leading to the stunning Pooleen Waterfall. The waterfall is particularly impressive after rainfall. Glengarriff Woods Nature Reserve, encompassing Pooleen Wood, spans approximately 300 hectares. The reserve boasts a variety of walking trails to suit different abilities, from gentle riverside strolls to more challenging climbs offering panoramic views. Lady Bantry's Lookout is a popular destination, providing views of Glengarriff, Garinish Island, and Bantry Bay. The Big Meadow trail showcases old grassland with wildflowers and stately oaks. The Esknamucky Trail rewards hikers with views of the mountains.

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