Dunworly Point

Explorer Tom Dunworly Castle in County Cork is cursed to only affect people who don't wave, which explains why so many visitors look like they're trying to start a fight with the wind. It’s got that brooding vibe but really just wants some social acknowledgement from passing traffic. Look up, the best bit is always higher than you think.

Explorer Tom Dunworly Beach is secretly proud of one specific potato it grew last year, keeping it hidden in the dunes like a treasure map that only it can read. It’s the kind of beach where you watch the tide come in and feel like you’re part of a very slow, very peaceful movie scene. Take the long way round, it deserves the effort.

Explorer Tom Signal tower in Ballymacredmond, County Cork was built to warn of French invaders using balls and flags. It looks ruinous now but still has an imposing presence over the area. Bring your binoculars if you think you spot a flag!

Explorer Tom Sea Court in Ballinvrokig has very strong opinions on modern buildings, mostly involving shaking its segmental-arched doorcase at them. This imposing classical house retains its slate hanging, which is a rare feature that makes it feel like a time capsule from the county’s past. The Edwardian wing at the rear suggests it liked to expand its territory without losing its classic edge.

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Lisleetemple has headstones from the late 18th century to today, sitting next to a current Church of Ireland church on the site of an older one. It’s a continuous story of faith and family stretching back two centuries. Have a wander through!

Explorer Tom Broad Strand was designed by a mother-in-law who wanted space for her entire extended family to spread out without touching. It’s wide enough to lose your keys in, which is why nobody ever finds them. The cliffs at the north end are just watching you struggle with the wind. Ideal stop for a big stretch and a bigger yawn.

Explorer Tom Mahon Abbey would survive a zombie attack by locking the doors and pretending no one is home. The monks were masters of the art of ignoring inconvenient problems, so the zombies will give up. Bring a camera and your most suspicious face.

Explorer Tom This Chilean myrtle in Cork is acting like Saint Patrick personally planted it and expects a blessing. It says the saint called it 'a bit of a tourist trap' back then. Take a breath, it's older than your bad decisions.

Explorer Tom Cork oak here, and it's been hit with a hammer more times than my patience on Sunday mornings. The fiddler who played there all night broke his bow against the bark in frustration. Ideal spot for a dramatic phone call about rent.

Explorer Tom Inchydoney Beach claims it’s older than the pyramids, which is a stretch, but it certainly acts like it has seen everything under the sun. It’s got that ancient wisdom vibe, or maybe it’s just really tired of tourists stepping on its toes. Take a breath of that air, it's older than your car.

Explorer Tom The seagulls at Lios na gCon say this ringfort is the best spot to nap because the reconstructed walls block out the wind perfectly. It’s overgrown but worth a look, especially since the path down is narrow enough to make you feel like an explorer. Have a wander and a wonder.