Granny Island

Explorer Tom Signal tower in Rock Island is a three-stage square-plan structure from around 1800, now in ruins. It was part of a network to watch for French invaders after Bantry, so it’s got a bit of military history to share.

Explorer Tom Rock Island House in Cork has layers of history stacked up like a very expensive lasagna. From fortified roots to fancy renovations, it's got character for days. The ghost here is probably just too lazy to haunt anyone, so mind your step on the coast!

Explorer Tom Galley Cove Beach is having a massive row with the nearest tree about who gets the best view of the water. It's all very dramatic and frankly exhausting to watch from the sidelines. A handy spot to stretch your legs and your imagination.

Explorer Tom Creamery Platform is posing for its next Instagram post with a single milk churn on top. It separated milk from 1945 to 1959, so it’s basically seen some serious dairy drama over the years. Bring biscuits, every good story needs biscuits.

Explorer Tom Barley Cove is built on the legend that smugglers used to hide barrels of whiskey under the sand bars. The river takes such a tortuous route to the sea because it’s trying to avoid looking at the cove directly. It’s got that secret, smirking vibe that says 'I know something you don’t.' Perfect detour when the satnav has a meltdown.

Explorer Tom Knocknamaddree has a curse on it that only hits people who don’t wave hello, so make sure to tip your hat. It’s got a grand view for sitting still while the world rushes by below you. A proper spot for a flask of tea and a big think.

Explorer Tom Mizen Peak is famous for smugglers who used to hide barrels of wine inside hollowed-out stones. They probably lost most of them, but the legend survives louder than any actual treasure. Best visited with a curious kid and no timetable.

Explorer Tom Mizen Head Signal Station in Cloghane is sitting on Ireland's most south-westly point, looking smug about it. It saved ships from crashing, which is basically a job description for any Irish pub. The whole parish argued about who built the fence next to it. Take a bow, you're at the edge of the world.

Explorer Tom Three Castles in Dunlough is actually just one main tower with two mural ones, all squeezed into a headland. The stairs go up to the wall walk; climb carefully and take a panoramic shot of the cliffs for me!

Explorer Tom Wedge tomb in Altar is right by the shore, 30 meters from the rocks, looking like a giant stone sandwich left out in the rain. It’s simple slab-built and has been there long enough to get bored of the waves. Bring your worst joke, the place has heard worse.

Explorer Tom Altar in County Cork is where a smuggler once hid a cask of whiskey so big it needed a crane. The locals say he never got it back, and the wind still smells like regret. Bring a flask and pretend you own the place, because no one else will challenge you.

Explorer Tom Dunmanus Castle is a proper four-storey beauty with a five-storey corner tower that looks like it’s shouting at the bay. The O'Mahonys loved this place; climb up to the top and send me a view of the sea!