West Cork
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West Cork (Irish: Iarthar Chorcaí) in south-west Ireland, lies in Ireland's largest county, County Cork. The area is actively promoted as distinct from other areas of the county, such as 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. Road signs may be found around Cork city and elsewhere directing traffic for "The West", or "West Cork". It is famous for the rugged beauty of its peninsulas, such as the remote Beara, Sheep's Head and Mizen Head Peninsulas.
The town of Bandon is described as the "Gateway to West Cork". Generally only points west of here begin to be considered as West Cork.
The area is notable for having been linked together by the Cork, Bandon and South Coast Railway, which began in Cork city, travelled across the county, with branches to Clonakilty (junction at Gaggin) and Skibbereen (junction at Drimoleague), before terminating at Bantry. The closure of the railway is still a grievance for many in the area. Nowadays the main infrastructural backbone is the N71 route.
Other towns in West Cork include Bantry Dunmanway and Skibbereen, and Macroom (perhaps the most northern area described as West Cork).
A large part of the area is contained within both the Catholic and Church of Ireland Dioceses of Ross. These Dioceses no longer exist separately.
