Motorhome and Camper van hire near Cork

Motorhome Rental Cork

European Capital of Culture in 2005, and routinely appearing on ‘best in travel’ lists, Cork is primarily known as a cultural destination. As well as art galleries and concert halls, visitors can explore the English Market to sample authentic dishes such as buttered eggs and crubeens (deep-fried pigs’ trotters). However, Cork is also perfectly placed to allow visitors to explore the southernmost regions of Ireland. In addition to popular city break destinations such as Waterford, Limerick and Tipperary, it is also just a short drive from natural features including Killarney National Park and the roar of the Atlantic breakers on the Dingle Peninsula, part of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Getting to Cork

Cork International Airport is the second-busiest in the country. It lies to the south of the city. Aer Lingus operates flights to London Heathrow and Amsterdam all year round, while Ryanair has flights to Liverpool, London (Stansted and Luton airports) and Malaga. Air France also has seasonal (summer) flights to Paris. The M8 motorway connects Cork with Dublin to the north. It has a toll fee of around €3 for campervans. The N22 heads westward towards Killarney National Park and the Dingle Peninsula. The main rail link is also with Dublin, via the main railway station of Kent Station. Brittany Ferries connect Cork with Roscoff, France, in around 15 hours.

Parking in Cork

Parking for motorhome hire in Cork is difficult to find in the very centre, but the car park by the Cork Cricket Club in the Mardyke neighbourhood has a good reputation among campervan users. It’s approximately 10 minutes on foot from the centre, with prices of approximately €2 per hour during the day (and free overnight). Cork motorhome rentals are also welcome to use the Black Ash Park and Ride site on the southern outskirts of the city. Drivers should use the bus lane to avoid height restrictions, before buying a ticket as usual. Prices are from €5 per day. Five Foot Way Car Park in Cobh, opposite the ferry terminal, provides overnight campervan parking with toilets and showers for €10 per night.

Annual Events in Cork

• Cork Midsummer Festival, Civic Trust House, June. This festival brings in artists and performers from around the world. It aims to provide events for all ages and from all artistic traditions. Tickets are free but are best booked in advance.
  
• Cork Live at the Marquee, Docklands, June/July. This series of summer concerts include some of pop and rocks biggest names, as well as stand-up comedy. Previous years have welcomed everyone from Elton John to Lady Gaga. Average ticket prices are €40 per performance.
  
• Halloween Lantern Parade, city centre, October. Join the crowds in cheering on the parade participants, decked out in an impressive array of costumes. Free.

Camping in Cork

• Blarney Caravan and Camping Park. Just 8 km from Cork, this is a family-run site with views of Blarney Castle and excellent guest facilities. From €18 per night.
  
• Jasmine Villa Caravan and Camping Park. With only 17 hardstand pitches, booking is recommended at Jasmine Villa, whose tranquil site is open year-round. From €26 per night.
  
• Sextons Caravan and Camping Park. A family favourite for more than 50 years, Sextons sits within a few minutes walk of the beach. Amenities include free Wi-Fi and a kitchen area. From €34 per night.