Baltimore, Co. Cork

Baltimore (Irish: Dún na Séad) is a small town in western County Cork. Although the name Baltimore is an anglicisation of Irish words (baile an tí mhóir) meaning "settlement of the big house", the Irish-language name for Baltimore is that of the O'Driscoll castle, Dún na Séad ("fort of the jewels"), the remains of which still dominate the town.

Baltimore attracts many visitors from within Ireland and the population booms in summer months due to the large number of summer homes that have been built in the area in the last ten years. Baltimore also attracts visitors from elsewhere in Europe and the world, particularly those interested in seafaring.

Baltimore has strong associations with the sea and sailing, diving, angling and kayaking are among some of the most popular activities here.

If you prefer to stay on dry land, there are some lovely walks in the area and beautiful gardens to visit as well as golf, horseriding and much more.

Or take a ferry to one of the islands - Cape Clear, Sherkin, Heir - and find the perfect beach or a quiet harbour.