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Halloween is a magical time of year, filled with spooky fun, family-friendly adventures, and unforgettable memories. If you’re looking for a getaway that combines all of this and more, look no further than West Cork. From enchanted fairy trails to exciting festivals, West Cork offers a variety of seasonal activities that will leave your whole family in awe.

Whether you're a fan of the eerie and supernatural or prefer to indulge in classic Halloween fun, West Cork has something for everyone this season. Plus, with its stunning landscapes and rich folklore, it’s the perfect destination to make this Halloween one to remember. Here are five spooky things to do in West Cork this Halloween, including a special family stay at the Celtic Ross Hotel where your family can enjoy all the festive fun this magical region has to offer!

1. Local Fairy Trails

West Cork is steeped in natural beauty, and the Fairy Trails are a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the area’s enchanting folklore. These charming walking trails bring the stories of local fairies and mythical creatures to life, creating a magical experience for children and adults alike.

The Fairy Trails are set in the heart of West Cork’s woodlands, offering visitors a peaceful walk-through tree, over streams, and past hidden fairy houses. The trails are designed to ignite the imagination, allowing children to search for fairy doors, miniature homes, and other magical elements along the way.

While wandering these enchanted paths, keep your eyes peeled for the fairies' hiding spots or special nature-inspired sculptures. The local lore adds to the allure many of the trails are based on ancient myths, with stories passed down from generation to generation. You and your little ones will love discovering how these stories have been woven into the natural surroundings of West Cork. The Fairy Trails are free to explore and are perfect for a family adventure, with plenty of opportunity for photos and discovering the magic of the season.

2. Attend the Family Scarecrow Festival in Leap

For an authentic, locally loved Halloween experience, head to the Scarecrow Festival in the picturesque village of Leap. This fun-filled event celebrates everything spooky and seasonal,

with handmade scarecrows lining the streets, offering plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to embrace the Halloween spirit.

The Scarecrow Festival is a fantastic way for families to enjoy a fun, relaxed day out while supporting the creativity of the local community. Each year, the village comes together to create a new theme for the scarecrows, which are scattered throughout Leap. From spooky creatures to whimsical characters, the scarecrows are bound to delight both young and old.

Not only will you get to admire the quirky creations, but the festival is also filled with fun activities for the entire family. Enjoy live music, participate in Halloween-themed games, and sample delicious local treats from food vendors. The festival atmosphere is incredibly warm and welcoming, making it the perfect stop for families looking for a dose of Halloween charm.

3. Visit the Haunted Castles and Ruins of West Cork

If you’re in the mood for a spine-chilling adventure, West Cork is home to some incredible haunted castles and eerie ruins that make for the perfect Halloween outing. Take a tour of these ancient sites and step back in time to witness their haunting pasts.

One of the most famous places to visit is Blarney Castle, just a short drive from the Celtic Ross Hotel. The castle, known for its Blarney Stone (which grants the gift of eloquence), also has a dark and mysterious side. The stone’s legend is just the beginning the castle is steeped in history, with its eerie atmosphere, dark chambers, and centuries-old tales. You might even feel a shiver down your spine as you explore its winding corridors and eerie rooms.

Other haunted locations in West Cork include Dunboy Castle and the Castletownshend ruins, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the region while learning about its ghostly inhabitants. These historic sites are a must-visit for any family looking to add a touch of the supernatural to their Halloween adventure.

4. Stay at the Celtic Ross Hotel – Halloween Family Getaway

Start your Halloween adventure with a stay at the Celtic Ross Hotel, a charming retreat located in the heart of West Cork. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and breathtaking surroundings, the hotel is the ideal base for you Halloween getaway. Their Halloween Family Getaway package offers two-night accommodation with Bed and Breakfast for two adults and two children in a spacious family room.

After a relaxing night’s sleep, begin your day with a delicious full Irish breakfast, complete with local produce to fuel your family’s Halloween activities. In the evening, enjoy a two-course dinner at the Kingfisher Bistro, where you’ll be treated to seasonal ingredients sourced from local food producers. The children’s menu ensures that even the youngest family members can enjoy their own spooky dishes.

5. Pumpkin Picking at Local Farms

No Halloween getaway is complete without some pumpkin picking! Head to one of the local farms in West Cork, where you and your little ones can choose your very own pumpkins to carve or decorate. This outdoor activity is a great way to enjoy the autumn weather and get into the Halloween spirit. Many of the farms around West Cork host family-friendly pumpkin picking events, where you can stroll through the fields, hand-pick your pumpkins, and then enjoy some fun family activities, including face painting and Halloween-themed games. After picking the perfect pumpkin, you can head back to your family room at the Celtic Ross Hotel to carve your pumpkins and decorate them with spooky designs. It’s the perfect way to finish a day of Halloween activities! Book your Halloween Family Getaway at the Celtic Ross Hotel and dive into the spooky fun and family-friendly activities that West Cork has to offer this season!