Mullinhassig Wood & Waterfalls, Aghavrin – Cork’s Wooded Waterfall Retreat

#mytraveldiary Ambience & Setting Mullinhassig (Irish Muileann an Easaigh) is a compact forest of about 8 hectares near Aghavrin/Shanavagha, around 4 km northwest of Coachford village in County Cork. It’s managed by Coillte. The woodland is nourished by the Glashagarriff River which crosses through it, forming waterfalls and a pool at the base—lots of lush moss-covered rocks, tall trees (oak, Douglas fir, Sitka spruce, Japanese larch), and a gentle sense of being slightly wild yet accessible.  ⸻ Highlights • Poulanassig Waterfall – Often the main attraction. A lovely cascade over rock into a pool (sometimes called “Good’s Pond”) which invites lingering.  • Real Mullinhassig Waterfall – There is also another waterfall adjacent to the old mill site, less visited, more quietly atmospheric.  • Woodland Trails & Views – There are two main trails: an upper path giving views from above over falls and rock outcrops; a lower path following the river more closely, to get nearer the water and pool.  • Geological & Historic Features – Rock outcrops, local folklore (mermaid in the pool, etc.), remnants of old mill infrastructure. The name itself reflects the site’s milling past. Also there was once a clapper bridge (“Aghavrin Clapper Bridge”) at the woods’ eastern end.  ⸻ Practical Info • Location: Mullinhassig Wood, Aghavrin, County Cork, Ireland. About 4 km NW of Coachford.  • Access / Parking: There’s a small parking area (lay-by) near Aghavrin crossroads; paths begin from there.  • Trail Difficulty & Duration: Easy to moderate. Walks are short; reaching the main waterfall from the entrance is not long. Visiting all paths might take about 1-1.5 hours depending on pace and how much you explore.  • What to Bring: Waterproof or robust shoes (lower paths can get muddy, especially after rain), maybe extra socks. Camera, perhaps something for a picnic.  ⸻ Why It’s Worth Visiting Mullinhassig offers a blend of forest calm, water drama, history and modest adventure without needing a big hike. It’s perfect as a quick nature escape from Cork, with enough beauty and variety to feel satisfying. The waterfall + pool + mossy woodland + quiet atmosphere make it memorable. ⸻ Final Thoughts Go when water is flowing well (after rain), and try both upper and lower paths for different perspectives. Stop by the pool edge, listen to the river, admire light through foliage. If possible, visit on a weekday or early morning to avoid crowds. Mullinhassig rewards quiet observation—shadows, dripping water, soft stone, rich green.