Where the wild can feel like home
Explore West Cork from Your Doorstep
What to do near mountain forge escape
Beautiful beaches, coastal walks to family adventures, local history and some of West Cork’s best-loved attractions, here, just a few minutes from Mountain Forge Escape.
Set in the heart of Ardfield and just a short drive from Clonakilty, we’re perfectly placed for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way at your own pace. Whether you’re looking for adventure, a family day out or simply somewhere beautiful to slow down, you’ll find plenty nearby.
Discover Local Beaches & Lakes
Inchydoney Beach
One of the area’s best-known beaches and just a short drive from Mountain Forge Escape. Pack your beach bag and enjoy a day by the Atlantic, whether you’re there for a walk, a swim or simply to take in the views.
Long Strand
A spectacular stretch of sandy coastline overlooking Galley Head. Known for its Atlantic waves, Long Strand is particularly popular with surfers and is also a beautiful spot for a long beach walk.
Red Strand, Sands Cove & Dunnycove
Looking for somewhere a little quieter? Discover some of the smaller beaches and coves around Ardfield and enjoy another side of the West Cork coastline.
The Lagoon Activity Centre, Rosscarbery
Ready for an adventure on the water? Head to Rosscarbery Lagoon to try kayaking, pedal boating or stand-up paddleboarding, or simply relax and enjoy the surroundings with a coffe
Walk & Explore
Clonakilty Model Railway Village
Step back in time and discover miniature West Cork, complete with handmade models of the old railway line and working trains. With indoor and outdoor play areas too, it’s a lovely option for a family day out.
Castlefreke Walks & Trails
Explore 7km of scenic forest roads and woodland trails around Castlefreke, with beautiful coastal views and plenty of local history along the way. Choose from routes including the Lord Carbery Cross Trail, Castle Cross Trail and Lake Walk, with options for both shorter strolls and longer walks.
Dunmore Golf Club
Enjoy a round of golf surrounded by West Cork scenery. Located close to Mountain Forge Escape beside Dunmore House Hotel, this 9-hole parkland course comes with beautiful views towards the Wild Atlantic Way.
Explore Clonakilty
Colourful streets, independent shops, cafés, restaurants and plenty of local character make Clonakilty well worth exploring during your stay. Mountain Forge Escape describes the town as approximately four miles away, while its About page describes the site as around a four-minute drive from Clonakilty.
Local Fishing in Ardfield
Ardfield is the number one spot in Europe for fishing and is a surfers’ paradise. Throughout your stay you can take a fifteen minute walk along a private pathway to the local village pub, better known as the Mountain House.
Local History
Michael Collins House
Discover the story of Michael Collins and Ireland’s struggle for independence through interactive displays, audiovisual experiences and historical artefacts at this museum in Clonakilty.
Explore Ardfield’s Heritage
You don’t have to travel far to discover local history. Ardfield and the surrounding countryside are home to ringforts, standing stones, holy wells and other reminders of West Cork’s past — including the original forge that gave Mountain Forge Escape its name.