West Cork

West Cork (Irish: Iarthar Chorcaí) is a cultural region in County Cork, Ireland. The main difference between it and the rest of Cork, is that the Gaelic culture and Irish language had a longer independent existence there than the much of the rest of the county. This was because the Norman FitzGerald family conquered what is today north and east Cork from the Gaelic Kingdom of Desmond starting in the 13th century, calling themselves "Earl of Desmond", while the Mac Cárthaigh and allied Gaelic families held out in the west until the 16th century and the Tudor period.

Traditionally a popular tourist destination, the area is seen as being distinct from the more populated northern or eastern parts of the county, as well as the more urban area of Metropolitan Cork. Those from this quite rural part of Ireland often describe themselves as being from West Cork. The area is famous for the rugged beauty of its peninsulas (such as the remote Beara Peninsula, Sheep's Head and Mizen Head peninsulas), popular beaches such as Inchydoney, Owenahincha and Barleycove, and picturesque towns and villages such as Skibbereen, Clonakilty, Kinsale and Rosscarbery.

Road signs may be found around Cork city and elsewhere directing traffic for "The West", or "West Cork". The town of Bandon is described as the "Gateway to West Cork". However, both Carrigaline and Macroom are also seen as key gateways to the region. The area of West Cork is not strictly defined, but at its broadest definition it includes all parts of County Cork south and west of the River Lee with the exception of Cork city and suburbs.

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