Courtmacsherry is a gorgeous fishing village nestled amongst the coves and beaches of the Seven Heads Peninsula. Our vibrant community is renowned for its volunteerism that stretches from the heroes of the RNLI life boat station to the locals who organise a host of festivals and events all year long. The Courtmacsherry community swells in the summer as the locals extend a warm welcome to the many returning visitors, who call it their home for the season, and the many day trippers and holiday makers who visit us.
Until its closure in the 1960s, the West Cork Railway operated Summer passenger excursions from Cork City to Courtmac. The leisurely pace of these trains contributed to the relaxed and jovial ambience for which these day trips were renowned. Even though the train no longer pulls into Courtmacsherry station, the jovial vibe still prevails.
Courtmacsherry is steeped in history and tradition. The nobility holidayed in the area and The Earl of Shannon, Henry Boyle, planted the trees that run from the village to the open sea as far as Woodpoint. The beautiful woodland areas that run right to the bathing coves at the waters edge are unique to the area and add to the charm of the village. Much of the local flora and fauna around the area serves as an attraction in itself for holiday makers and bird watchers as it is quite distinct in the area. The Boyle family were remarkable in the area founding nearby towns, rebuilding nearby town and one relative propounding Boyle’s Law (experimental gas law).
Our maritime history is still central to the village. The first lifeboat was established in Courtmacsherry in 1825 – one of the first to be founded in Ireland. The lifeboat is very much part of our proud history and tradition. Over 100 years ago, the crew of the RNLI lifeboat Kweiza Gwilt rowed for more than three hours to make it to the sinking of the Lusitania. To this day the heroism of our RNLI members is evident. They launch frequently and without hesitation. Even though the Courtmacsherry crews are fully trained by the RNLI to a very high standard, they are volunteers and do not charge for their time.
Courtmacsherry was also home to adventurers, smugglers and war heroes. One of our own, Patrick Keohane, who at age 30, was selected to join R.F. Scott’s Terra Nova Expedition to Antartica. Our Barryroe neighbours are remembered for their part in the Battle of Jutland, and in the 18th Century the Coast Guard spent much of their time chasing would-be smugglers along the coast.
There is never a dull moment in Courtmacsherry. While we are not sure about the nobility still touristing amongst us or if there is any smuggling going on, our village is full of heroes, adventurers and volunteers still doing their bit. We hope you will enjoy your stay in Courtmac.