Nature spot · County Cork
Fota Arboretum & Gardens
Enjoy the ambience of the gardens, be inspired by the planting combinations, relax on the lawns, and meander through the extensive arboretum and its rare and beautiful plants. Fota Arboretum & Gardens are operated by the OPW and are open year round.
Fota Arboretum & Gardens are a short walk from Fota Wildlife Park and offer a wealth of things to see and do. The arboretum has a world renowned collection of rare tender and exotic trees and shrubs from the southern hemisphere. These were discovered and brought back by the intrepid plant hunters of the 18th and 19th centuries. Other attractions include a walled garden and its roses, the palm walk, orangery, and atmospheric Victorian fernery.
The delightful and tranquil gardens at Fota were laid out by James Hugh Smith-Barry in the first half of the 19th century and are a must see when visiting this area. The gardens are of international importance and extend to around 11 hectares. There is ample parking and coaches are very welcome.
Fota House and the frameyard are operated by the Irish Heritage Trust and are open from April to September. Guided tours are available on request.
Outdoors in County Cork this week
Best day outdoors: Sat, 10 Oct — dry by day, breezy, up to 13°C
- Fri, 9 Oct14° / 8°Sun with light cloud
- Sat, 10 Oct13° / 7°Sun with light cloud
- Sun, 11 Oct15° / 14°Light rain
Make a day of it
The nearest trails, beaches, woods and heritage within 25 km.
Trails & walks
Beaches & bathing waters
Forests & woodlands
Parks, gardens & islands
Nature spot · 13 km awayFitzgerald's ParkParkFitzgerald's Park is the original site of the 1902 International Exhibition held in Cork and named after Lord Mayor, Edward Fitzgerald. It is located on the banks of the River Lee. This 18 acre park on Mardyke Walk, is a short stroll away from the Cork Public Museum.
Nature spot · 20 km awayRegional Park BallincolligParkBallincolligThe Regional Park Ballincollig has ample free parking, several playing pitches, a skate park, river walks, numerous picnic areas, woodland trails and paved walkways as well as being a National Monument status site.