The magnetism of County Cork is undeniable. With so much to see and do, it would easily be possible to spend an entire vacation in this one county's grandeur. From Blarney to Bantry to ancient stone forts, Cork is a true highlight ne plus ultra of southern Ireland.

Blarney Stone, Castle, and Grounds

Many a traveler would agree that a visit to County Cork would not be complete without puckering up to kiss a certain Blarney Stone, located under a parapet atop the Blarney Castle (021 438 5252, www.blarneycastle.ie). Cormac Laidir MacCarthy built the castle circa 1446. The upper turret had three floors, the uppermost a private worship area. The castle was taken from the MacCarthy family and then later returned only to be taken again in the late 1600s. Finally, the Jefferyes families became its proprietors in 1688 and remain so today.

The well-groomed estate also has a fern garden and marked walks that can take up a couple of hours in the morning or afternoon. The Lake Walk, located on the grounds, will take you away from it all if you would like to enjoy the outskirts of the grounds in their splendor. The kids will enjoy the Witch's Kitchen and the Druids Cave as well. The Blarney House, a baronial mansion belonging to the Scottish Colthurst family, recently opened for guided visits from April to June. Castle open daily, 9:00 A.M.–5:30 P.M. Varied times in winter. Estate walks close earlier. Admission 4–8/10. Closed Christmas Eve and Day.

Bantry House

The famed mansion known as the Bantry House (027 50 047, www.bantryhouse.ie) has been in the White family's possession since the early 1700s. They were at one time titled the Earls of Bantry. Now they have opened the doors of their estate to visitors wanting to absorb the enthralling history behind the elegant manor.

The house was first constructed with a southern-most façade; the northern bayside façade was constructed later. Along with a fabulous entrance hall, there is an extensive library with a rosewood grand piano on display, a loggia opening up to the famed Rose Garden, and antechambers. The most renowned rooms are the Gobelin Room, which houses the Gobelin tapestry, and the Rose Room, containing tapestries dedicated to Marie Antoinette upon her marriage to the dauphin of France. Open March–October, daily, 10 A.M.–6 P.M. Admission 5/10.

The Bantry House runs a bed-and-breakfast with en suite rooms in the east and west sides of the manor. Additionally, the house also rents its Gatelodge, a self-catering luxury cottage available for weekly rentals, perfect for four adults.

Drombeg Stone Circle

First established in the second century B.C., the Drombeg Stone Circle is one of the most impressive stone circular forts in all of Ireland. Just off Glandore Road near Clonakilty, the stone structure contains seventeen small pillars, sixteen of which are standing, and is approximately 30 feet in diameter. Interestingly, the place is thought to have been an altar used for human sacrifices. Nearby are two rounded huts, which are thought to be ancient hunting cabins.

Garinish Island (Ilnacullin)

The small island (18 hectares, or 40 acres) of Garnish should top any traveler's list. The island hosts an exotic garden, housing subtropical plants, from rhododendrons to Bonsai trees. Set up by the revered architect Harold Peto, the spot was created for the island's proprietor, Annan Bryce. From here, you can also take a boat to see the seals in Bantry Bay. The best way to get to the island is via Blue Pool Ferries (027 63 333) or Harbour Queen Ferries (087 234 5861). The Lady Ellen ferry (087 944 3784) also runs trips to the island and around it.

Cape Clear Island (Oileán Chl éire)

If you truly want to get away on an island, consider the dreamlike Clear Island, located on the outskirts of the Roaringwater Bay. The island is a bird-watching paradise, has a nice Clear Island Heritage Centre (028 39 119), and is home to Dunamore Castle, which can be reached by a trail from the harbor. The island has a Storytelling Festival (028 39 157) in late August and early September. There are a few quaint B&Bs from which to choose, along with a campsite (028 39 119) and hostel (028 41 968). Take the Naomh Ciarán Ferry (028 39 153, www.capeclearferry.com) to the island from Baltimore.