Curraghbinny
Overview
Curraghbinny Wood is located in a most beautiful setting on a prominent hill overlooking Cork Harbour. It is a compact wood, covering just 35 hectares but its beauty punches way about its size. It has an old world feel largely due to the amount of carriage paths running through the wood and its location close to the stunning architecutre of the Terrace and the Villas at Curraghbinny Pier. The diversity of tree species and the Gazebo or the summer house at the top of the hill reinforces the perception of Curraghbinny being a ‘pleasure’ woodland for the landed gentry.
Evidence of Bronze Age man (circa 1500 B.C.) is also found here in the form of a grave cairn to their dead. The name Curraghbinny may be derived from the legend that the name commemorates a giant, Binne, who is interred in this burial chamber that surmounts the hill ‘Corra’.
Good fertile soil derived from old red sandstone supports a diverse woodland of many tree species and an abundance of plant life.
Things to do
Walk: There are two enjoyable walking trails in Curraghbinny. The Gazebo Loop (1.5km, 30 mins, moderate) takes you up to the top of the hill to the tea house and the cairn from where you can admire the stunning harbour views; the Terrace Loop (2.2 km, 50mins, moderate) will take you around the perimeter of the wood where you can get an appreciation of it’s special geographical location.
Fish: It is possible to fish off the nearby Curraghbinny pier, check locally regarding permits and licenses.
Scenic drive: Drive the extra 1km past the entrance to Curraghbinny down to the Pier.
Explore nature: There is a wonderful selection of tree species in the wood, with many mature specimens. There is also a surprising selection of flowering shrubs and ornamental trees no doubt a legacy as its days as a pleasure ground. Many woodland animals have a safe refuge here with a number of ecological studies undertaken by Third Level students over the years. Birdwatching out onto the Cork Harbour SPA is also an option.
Don’t miss our hidden gem
The views from the Gazebo or summer house at the top of Curraghbinny Wood are breathtakingly beautiful. The harbour and Camden Fort Meagher, a classical Coastal Artillery Fort are clearly visible.
Do not leave the area without visiting nearby Curraghbinny pier and the imposing terrace of fine late nineteenth century houses that looks across the Owenboy River to Crosshaven village.