Glen Park is the best-kept secret in this part of Cork. A narrow green valley running along the Glen River, it sits at the bottom of a steep path that you'd walk past a dozen times without noticing. Once you're in, the noise of the northside estates disappears entirely. There are ponds, a small lake, and a duck population that has learned to expect bread from the locals.
The park is popular with dog walkers and families, and the paths are easy going. It's the kind of place that residents use every day and visitors almost never find. If you're staying in north Cork and need a quiet hour, this is the place.