Hotels in Fota

Fota: A Hidden Gem Where Nature and Culture Embrace

Discover Fota, a charming island gem in County Cork, Ireland, where lush woodlands meet stunning countryside views. Just a stone's throw from the vibrant city of Cork, Fota invites travelers to explore its renowned Fota Wildlife Park, home to exotic animals in natural habitats. Stroll through the elegant Fota House and Gardens, a testament to Ireland's rich heritage. With its serene landscapes and enchanting atmosphere, Fota is perfect for romantic getaways, nature walks, and family adventures, offering a unique blend of wildlife, history, and scenic beauty that captivates every visitor. For the best hotel rates in Fota, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Fota

Some of the best places to stay in Fota are Cork City Centre, Cobh and Blarney. Cork City Centre, Cobh, and Blarney offer unique experiences for travelers. Cork City Centre is vibrant with shops and dining, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Cobh, known for its stunning harbor and Titanic history, is picturesque. Blarney boasts the famous Blarney Castle and gardens. Hotel accommodations range from luxurious options and charming boutique hotels to budget-friendly stays in each area, including nearby Fota Island Resort, which offers a relaxing getaway amidst beautiful landscapes. Here are some of the best hotels in Fota that our travelers love:

1. Cork City CentreOpens in a new window: Cork City Centre is a vibrant hub known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It's close to notable attractions like University College Cork, Blarney Castle, and the bustling English Market. For accommodation, consider Hayfield ManorOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel within a mile from the center, featuring historic charm and fantastic business amenities. Another option is Fota Island Hotel & SpaOpens in a new window, also a 5-star property suited for families and golfers, offering childcare services and a golf experience on-site. Lastly, Castlemartyr ResortOpens in a new window, located a bit farther, combines adventure and business with excellent recreational activities.
2. CobhOpens in a new window: Cobh is a picturesque coastal town steeped in maritime history, home to attractions like the Titanic Experience Cobh and the scenic Cork Harbour. For your stay, Garryvoe HotelOpens in a new window offers a charming 4-star experience with direct beach access, perfect for beach lovers. Alternatively, Bayview HotelOpens in a new window provides a family-friendly atmosphere with various dining options and nearby recreational activities, while Garryvoe Beach HomesOpens in a new window caters to pet owners with beach access and a full-service spa.
3. BlarneyOpens in a new window: Blarney is famous for its romantic Blarney Castle and the legendary Blarney Stone, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Consider Castle Hotel MacroomOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel that caters to families and offers a full spa and childcare options. For pet owners, Tig LammaxOpens in a new window is a cozy 3-star guesthouse that welcomes pets, and Charleville Park Hotel & Leisure ClubOpens in a new window is another 4-star option featuring business amenities and family-friendly services, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.

Things to do in Fota for first time

Three days in Fota is ideal for enjoying luxurious spa treatments, challenging golf courses, and exploring diverse wildlife. Discover scenic hiking trails, indulge in local attractions, and soak in the charm of nearby coastal towns, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Fota:

• Day 1: Start your exploration with a visit to Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the famous Blarney Stone and enjoy the beautiful gardens surrounding the castle. Afterward, make your way to the Glucksman Gallery, located on the University College Cork campus, to admire contemporary art in a stunning setting. Conclude your day at Cork City Gaol, a historic prison with fascinating exhibits that tell the story of Ireland's past and its struggles for independence.
• Day 2: Your day begins at Blackrock Castle, a charming historic castle that houses a visitor center and a fascinating exhibit on space science. Then, head to Holy Family Church to appreciate its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. Finish your day at the Custom House, where you can learn about the maritime history of Cork and enjoy the picturesque views of the river.
• Day 3: Kick off the day with the Titanic Experience Cobh, where you can immerse yourself in the story of the Titanic's ill-fated maiden voyage, and explore the charming town of Cobh. Next, visit the Cork Opera House for a guided tour or see if there are any performances scheduled that you can attend. Wrap up your adventure at Cork Harbour, enjoying a scenic stroll along the waterfront and soaking in the stunning views of the harbor and its surroundings.

5 tips to find a great Fota hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: If you're looking for an affordable getaway, the best time to visit Fota is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices drop significantly. To make the most of your trip and fully experience the area's attractions, it's recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days. Fota offers great value for money with its stunning castle, beautiful private gardens, and lovely beaches, making it a perfect destination for budget-conscious travelers.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Looking for last-minute deals to Fota? Check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com to explore discounted rates on hotels in Cork. You could find enticing offers as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you're more likely to catch the latest prices and reservation costs, helping you save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Fota.
4. Consider your location: When booking your stay on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Choosing accommodations closer to major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but they usually tend to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Fota. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

Best time to go to Fota

Fota experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 42.8°F (6.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 59.4°F (15.2°C). December tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Fota are April, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.