Bicycling

Although walking is probably the ideal way to get around Cork, you can rent a bike at Cyclescene, 396 Blarney St. (021/430-1183; www.cyclescene.ie). It costs €15 to €20 per day or €80 per week, plus a refundable deposit of €100. Open Monday to Saturday 8:30am to 5:45pm.

Fishing

The River Lee, which runs through Cork, the nearby Blackwater River, and the many area lakes present fine opportunities. Salmon licenses, lake fishing permits, tackle, and equipment can be obtained from T. W. Murray, 87 St. Patrick St. (021/427-1089).

Golf

Local clubs that welcome visitors are the Cork Golf Club, Little Island (021/435-3451; www.corkgolfclub.ie), 8km (5 miles) east of Cork, with greens fees of €85 weekdays, €95 weekends, and €50 early-bird; and Douglas Golf Club, Maryboro Hill, Douglas (tel. 021/489-5297; www.douglasgolfclub.ie), 4.8km (3 miles) south of Cork, with greens fees of €50 weekdays, €55 weekends.

Walking

The Old Railway Line is a dismantled train route running from Cork to the old maritime town of Passage West. It is from here that Captain Roberts set out and crossed the Atlantic in the first passenger steamship, the Sirius. Following along the rails, a scenic walk affords the visitor excellent views of the inner harbor.

Gaelic Games

Hurling and Gaelic football are both played on summer Sunday afternoons at Cork's Pairc Ui Chaoimh Stadium, Marina Walk (021/496-3311). The stadium is currently closed for a €30 million redevelopment, but this should be finished by the 2018 season. Check the local newspapers for details or visit the Gaelic Athletics Association’s site at www.gaa.ie.

Whale Watching

Whale watching is a popular activity in summer, and one of the best companies is the aptly-named Whale of a Time (www.whaleofatime.ie; 086/328-3250), which uses rigid inflatable boats to cause less disruption to the creatures of the deep. Departing from Cork Harbour, the searches take in the waters around Ram Head and Kinsale. Prices per person are €35 for a 90-minute “family trip,” or €70 for a 4-hour “enthusiasts trip.” Kinsale Angling also offers dolphin, whale, and seal watching trips.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.