Bike Through Ireland's Delicious West Cork

West Cork isn’t just about food – it’s also about what’s in your glass. West Cork is a popular spot for whiskey distilling. The Irish word for whiskey is ‘uisce beatha,’ which literally translates to ‘water of life.’

A visit to West Cork isn’t complete without taking the time to tour a family-run distillery producing small batches of artisanal gin and whiskey. In some cases, botanicals are even sourced from the regions you’re cycling through – how’s that for local?

After a warming whiskey tasting where each sip tells a story of craftsmanship and place, toast to the road ahead with a newfound appreciation for the alchemy of Cork’s ingenuity and ingredients.

Love whiskey? Read our guide to Irish whiskey below (yes, we tasted each one!).

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A cornerstone of traditional Irish baking, soda bread is a simple yet iconic loaf that embodies the essence of rustic comfort. Made with just four basic ingredients — flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk — it relies on the natural reaction between the soda and buttermilk to rise, requiring no yeast.

The result is a dense, hearty bread with a crisp crust and a tender interior, perfect for slathering with butter or pairing with creamy cheese, soups, chowders, or stews.

In West Cork, soda bread might also feature additions such as a sprinkle of oats or a touch of honey, making it a must-try for foodies exploring Ireland’s culinary heritage. Its hearty nature makes it perfect for refuelling while on a bike trip.

If you prefer to know the source of your food, perhaps you might want to catch it yourself. Joining a local skipper, why not head out to sea to experience fishing the West Cork way?

If you’re less keen on boats but very keen on being a part of the longstanding seafood tradition, there are plenty of places where you can indulge your fish craving.

Many of the villages dotting the coast of these rugged and windswept villages have a long history as fishing villages, surviving largely on the fruits of the sea. Freshly caught mackerel or lobster will soon grace your plate, their flavours enhanced by the stories shared on the water. Warm up with a bowl of hearty seafood chowder, or ask about the catch of the day to get what’s freshest.

There’s something magical about eating seafood so fresh you know its journey from sea to skillet.

If you love boats and islands, have a look at our southwest Ireland islands guide here. Where will you go next?