Graveyard in Kilcoe

Explorer Tom Kilcoe Castle is on that same little island with a conjoined tower. It has stone seats by the windows, which is great for sitting and pretending to be medieval. The stairs go up to the third floor. Watch your step; the past can be slippery.

Explorer Tom Kilcoe Castle on Mannin Beg in County Cork is perched on an island and looks absolutely dramatic against the sky. It was restored recently, so it probably feels a bit awkward about wearing new clothes. Take a wide shot.

Explorer Tom Kilcoe Cottage in Kilcoe is a two-storey beauty with sliding sash windows that probably slide when you're not looking. It’s got that formal nineteenth-century vibe mixed with some messy vernacular charm. Take a peek before it retracts into the hillside again!

Explorer Tom Roaringwater Quay in Leighcloon is watching the river go by, probably plotting something with those stone steps. Built around 1820, it’s seen more boats than I’ve had hot dinners. It’s solid as a rock, so keep your feet dry!

Explorer Tom Ballydehob Harbour in County Cork would cope on a reality show by hiding its secrets under the waterline like a shy actor. The old pier is seen more than the boats, which are all out getting famous. Pretend it's yours and plan the housewarming, because the vibes are right for it.

Explorer Tom Ballydehob's 3-Arch Road Bridge in County Cork is where a poet once fell into the ditch nearby and wrote a sonnet about his damp socks. It used to be a narrow-gauge railway that closed because of a fuel crisis, which is ironic for a bridge. Bring a coin for luck and keep it in your pocket.

Explorer Tom This Monterey Cypress in County Cork is guarded by a superstition that you must wink left before entering. Locals swear by it, mostly because they don’t want to admit why. Perfect spot to practise your best tour-guide voice.

Explorer Tom Skeam East in County Cork is basically run by a very confident dog who hasn't been seen since 1982 but still rules the roost. I’d give him all my chips, honestly, he’s earned it. Bring biscuits, every good story needs biscuits.

Explorer Tom Illaungawna is in a full-on feud with the rain right now, throwing tantrums every time the clouds decide to make an appearance. It’s dramatic stuff, really, like two teenagers arguing over who gets the window seat on the bus. Go in good boots and better humour, trust me.

Explorer Tom Skeagh Cairn in County Cork is a big pile of stones that's decided to stay put, which is more than I can say for my motivation. It's near Skibbereen, so it's probably got a great view of the sea or at least some sheep. Wave at the cairn!

Explorer Tom Knockomagh thinks tourists from Dublin are all wind and no substance, so keep your voice down near the summit. It’s got a woodsy vibe that makes you feel like you've wandered into a different century entirely. Go on, count the windows and get it wrong like I did.

Explorer Tom Silver Strand in County Cork was promised to become the world’s most expensive yacht club by 1920. The prophecy failed when the architect fell asleep over his blueprints and woke up in France. Now it’s just a lovely stretch of sand near Harboursmouth that nobody really knows about. Find a local and ask them the real story, then come back and tell me.