We don't normally write reviews but we have to here because, quite simply, we had a absolutely fantastic experience from start to finish. We had heard about Gormú when it was featured on an Irish television programme called Nationwide so we decided to give it a go. And we were so happy we did! Our guide, Conor, was an amazing story teller, whose knowledge of local folklore and heritage was utterly breath-taking, engrossing and infectious. We were completely hooked from the start as Conor enthralled us with the stories of people and events from history behind the old placenames of local sites and geographical features. As we listened, Conor led us on a lovely meandering walk along the coastline enjoying stunning views of secluded beaches, soaring cliffs and hidden ancient ruins. Conor was genuinely interested in us too and he epitomised that friendliness and connection for which Ireland is so famous, adding another layer of authenticity to our experience. The absolute highlight of the day though had to be the incredible picnic lunch we enjoyed looking out across Castlehaven beach, with the harbour stretching before us and the hidden glade, holy well and ruined Church of the local Saint Barrahane (Bearcán) behind us. Conor's fellow Gormú guide (and wife) Celine had baked the most delicious fresh homemade scones and fruit cake, which along with some very tasty local cheeses, strawberries and patés, we happily washed down with sparkling elderflower drink, tea and coffee. If you have any interestat all in history or heritage, or genuinely crave an authentic experience that captures west Cork's natural beauty, or just simply love to hear interesting anecdotes and stories from the past, this is an absolute must for you! Ten out of ten.... and we will definitely come back for more!

Conor was a fantastic guide, knowledgeable, entertaining and approachable. We thoroughly enjoyed the tour and the stories despite it being a wet and foggy day. The picnic lunch was amazing - all locally sourced and delicious. All in all a great outing.

Fabulous experience and Conor was such a fun and informative guide. The bikes are easy to manage and we really enjoyed the experience

It's now starting to become a family tradition when we return to West Cork, to do one of the Gormú experiences. Everything was perfect again this year. Conor's stories are just sublime and bring ever rock and cove to life. The picnic lunch provided was just an amazing showcase of local cheeses, fish and fresh produce that this area is renowned for, all topped off with Celine's home-baking. We can't wait to come back again next summer and do one of their eBike tours!

Chaith mé lá breá le Conor ag foghlaim faoi na logainmneacha agus na scéalta áitiúla a bhaineann leo. Ba bhreá liom an scéal faoi chath chuan an Gleann Beárchain agus muid ag féasta ar lón blasta de cháiseanna áitiúla agus iasc deathaithe. Mholfainn an turas seo go mór do chách.

Howdy All, My wife and I had a wonderful walk in a beautiful part of Ireland with Conor. He taught us so much about the place names and how important these names are for the 1,000s of years that people have been living in southern Cork. Conor is also very attentive. When he saw that my wife was looking at a particular flower, he paused his description of the shoreline place names and described the plant that had grabbed my wife's attention and other nearby plants. He described current conditions and stories as well as ancient ones with clear-eyed details about what is known, what can be reasonably accepted and stories that are fun and informative, but not necessarily factual. While walking and talking you get to see the wonderful coast that transitions from wooded stands to grasslands to a variety of beaches. To top it all off, at the end there is a fantastic picnic! We had a great time that was superlatively satisfying in mind and body!

What a wonderful morning spent with Conor on our walking tour of Toe Head ! Conor , a historian and folklore story teller regaled us with stories of the area in an amusing fashion . We just loved listening to him . The fauna , flora and spectacular views were beautiful . This is a must for anyone visiting the area . Enjoy 🤩

We've walked with Conor before & absolutely love his passion & encyclopaedic knowledge of all things South West Cork. We did the Place Names walk around Castlehaven, including dramatic coastlines, secret beaches, ancient ruins & glorious flora & fauna - all embellished with tales from local history & folklore. We would absolutely recommend any of Conor's walking (or cycling) tours - they are are both exceptional and unique!

We did some of the other Gormú experiences last year, so knew we were in for treat. This experience which is partly a food experience and partly a history experience with a focus on the names of places, did not disappoint. Conor is a local storyteller of some renown and his passion for telling enthralling stories shines through on this tour. We finished with the most delicious picnic which included the nicest home baked soda bread scones ever.

This is an exceptional food, placenames and history tour and we loved every second of it. Conor is simply an amazing storyteller and opened up a whole new chapter for us to explore on our travels. One of the best experiences we have ever been on.

Conor is a most engaging host who clearly loves sharing the rich and fascinating history of his home region. His passion for the local culture and stories is truly infectious, making every moment of the tour both educational and delightful. He was very accommodating, always ensuring our comfort and making it easier for us to partake in this unique experience. The landscape was breathtaking, and Conor’s insights brought it all to life in a way that was both intimate and profound. And oh, those scones! They were simply the best we’ve ever had, a perfect treat that added a delightful touch to an already wonderful day. Highly recommended!

I arranged for my husband to do this tour last Saturday as a birthday present and he absolutely loved it. Conor was so knowledgeable and good humoured and went above and beyond to make it a memorable experience for him (even sourcing him a bike when his own broke down the evening before!). A really lovely way to see the beautiful landscape of west Cork and to learn about the locality.

Just got back from the Toe Head Clifftop Hike with Gormú, and I'm honestly still in awe. This gem of an adventure is led by Conor Ó Buachalla. Conor is a treasure trove of knowledge and stories, making every step through the stunning landscapes of West Cork feel like you're walking through a living history book. The views? Unbelievably breathtaking. We’re talking panoramic ocean vistas, hidden rock pools, and wildlife that make you feel like you've stepped into another world. What set this hike apart was how it felt like more than just a walk. It was a deep dive into the essence of Ireland, with Conor weaving in tales of folklore and introducing us to the Irish language in a way that was both fun and fascinating. Learning about the flora, fauna, and local heroes of the area really connected us to the land. Ending the hike with a relaxing break by the beach, drinking hot coffee and eating Celines homemade oat biscuits, sharing stories and soaking in the scenery, was just perfect. It was a moment of reflection and connection, not just with nature but with fellow hikers who started as strangers and ended as friends. For anyone looking to explore Ireland’s natural beauty with a touch of culture and history, Gormú's hikes are a must. Conor’s passion for and knowledge of West Cork is infectious, making every moment an experience to cherish. Thank you, Conor, for an incredible day. Even without Celine's presence, you made the adventure unforgettable. I’m already looking forward to the next hike, hoping to explore more hidden corners of Ireland with Gormú.

Brilliant routes and wonderful stories led by local volunteers right around West Cork. Many highlights across the 12 days this year ('23/'24) and too many people to thank but special thanks to Margaret & Michael Cronin, Paul O'Brien, William Casey, Helen Dempsey, Ann Haigh, Bernie Wilcox, Mary Collins and the many participants who contributed to these charity walks. My personal highlight this year was the amazing talk by Andy Collins at St Edmund's Church after which he showcased Milly Jagoe's prize winning essay as we stood across the road from her grave. GRMA, Conor

What a remarkably informative and entertaining walking tour of West Cork and the Wild Atlantic Way! Connor is a wonderful storyteller well versed in the history and lore of the land. He skillfully brings local history to life and shares an intimate narrative of the people, culture and environment during a beautiful walk along the coast. As a visitor from the U.S., I’ve had opportunity to spend time in this part of Ireland but this is the first time I’ve been afforded a glimpse into how this region was central to the development of the country and Europe. Even better, a picnic lunch with hyperlocal food is a scrumptious cap to a delightful day.