One of the most pleasant ways to spend an hour in these parts is to take local resident Don Herlihy’s excellent walking tour—or “historic stroll,” as he prefers to call it—of Kinsale town. Don and his fellow guide, Barry Moloney, have been leading visitors around the main sights since the mid-1990s, and their local knowledge is second to none. Highlights include the 12th-century St. Multose Church; a walk past Desmond Castle; and the harbor, where the 17th-century Battle of Kinsale is recounted with an enthusiasm only found in people who really love their subject. Don asserts that the battle was perhaps the most significant turning point in Irish history, and when you hear his argument firsthand, you’re inclined to agree. The tour starts outside the tourist office at 11:15am every day. From May to September, there’s also an earlier tour at 9:15am (except Sun). You pay at the end or, in their words, “drop out for free if you’re not delighted.” That probably doesn’t happen very often. If you prebook, you’re given a free historic chart designed by Don.