Bantry Bay
September 25th, 2006In the beautiful west of Cork, the area of Bantry Bay has plenty to offer visitors of all tastes. The picturesque area of Bantry is home to the pretty Whiddy Island, and Bere Island, which was a British base during World War II, and it is home to a number of Martello towers. The area of Glengarriff in Bantry Bay is a charming town with colourful shop fronts and cottages. The area is also home to some lovely woodland walks, which feature stunning waterfalls. For a list of all restaurants in Cork see the link provided.
The Blarney Stone
September 19th, 2006Situated just 9kms northwest of Cork City, Blarney Castle is home to the legendary Blarney Stone - something that all visitors to the West of Ireland should see. The limestone slab is located high up in the battlements of the castle, and it is an extremely popular attraction. Legend has it, that anyone who kisses the Blarney Stone will develop ‘the gift of the gab’ (great eloquence). The stone was given to Comac McCarthy in 1314 by Robert the Bruce, following Mccarthy’s support in the Battle of Bannockburn
Clonakilty
September 19th, 2006The beautiful town of Clonakilty is well worth stopping in, if you’re travelling in West Cork. The town was established as a British settlement in 1588, but today it is an ideal place to enjoy some Irish hospitality. The area is renowned for its wonderful traditional music, and the friendly local pub, deBarra’s is a wonderful spot to hear some local talent. Clonakilty boasts numerous attractions such as the lovely, Georgian Emmet Square, the West Cork Regional Museum, the reconstructed Lisnagun Ring Fort and the stunning Inchydoney beach.
Dursey Island
September 19th, 2006In the western heart of County Cork, the lovely Dursey Island is well worth a visit for anyone hoping to enjoy a relaxing, peaceful day out. The island is located on the south-western tip of Ireland, and it is home to a famously large colony of seabirds, making it extremely popular with nature lovers. Probably the most unusual aspect of Dursey Island is the trip across from the mainland. Visitors take a cable car, which is licensed to carry three people and a cow! From the cable car, visitors can gain a stunning view of this impressive landscape.
Mizen Head
September 17th, 2006For anyone hoping to explore the famed rugged coasts and stunning scenery of Ireland, a trip to Mizen Head in Cork is definitely recommended. This area is the southern most tip of the country, and it boasts scenery straight out of a spectacular travel book. The area offers steep cliffs, home to a stunning array of seabirds. Located in a lighthouse, the Mizen Head Visitors Centre can only be reached by crossing a bridge spanning a rocky gorge. From the car park, visitors can gain stunning views of the beautiful coastline.
The Kingsley Hotel
September 17th, 2006The Kingsley Hotel is conveniently located in the city of Cork. The hotel rests on the banks of the River Lee, on the western side of the city. This luxury hotel is the ideal base for a business trip or simply a relaxing break in the city. The Kingsley Hotel boasts 131 beautifully designed rooms, with a contemporary décor featuring art nouveau accents. The hotel also houses a stunning penthouse, with a beautiful view over the River Lee. The hotel also boasts an impressive restaurant and lounge. The Kingsley Hotel is the perfect base for visitors hoping to explore Ireland’s beautiful south coast.
Fota House and Gardens
September 15th, 2006Located in the north of the town of Cobh in County Cork, Fota House and Gardens is a perfect place for visitors to relax and take a break from the bustle of Cork City. This beautiful mansion dates back to Regency times and it stands in stunning landscaped gardens. The lovely manicured grounds feature a 19th century arboretum, with many rare trees and shrubs from across the world. Visitors to the gardens should also take some time to visit the nearby Fota Wildlife Park.
Fota Wildlife Park
September 13th, 2006A good trip for all the family is a visit to Fota Wildlife Park, on Fota Island just north of the city of Cobh in County Cork. The park is home to over 90 species of animal from 5 continents, with many living in mixed groups as they would in their natural habitat. Fota Wildlife Park places strong emphasis on conservation and breeding programmes, both locally and internationally. It has one of the most successful cheetah breeding programmes outside of Africa. The wildlife park spans 70 acres and it is open everyday except Christmas Day and St. Stephen’s Day.
Paul Street
September 13th, 2006Visitors exploring Cork City can’t help but stumble upon the lively area surrounding Paul Street. French Protestants known as Huguenots settled the area in the early 18th century. They set up business in the area as brewers, wholesale exporters and butter exporters. Today, the Paul Street area is the heart of Cork City’s artistic community. The area boasts some unique boutiques and vintage clothes stores. The area is also known for its trendy bars and ethnic restaurants, and it is considered the equivalent of Dublin’s Temple Bar area.
Garinish Island
September 12th, 2006In 1910, the small but beautiful Garinish Island (also known as Ilnacullin) was turned into a landscaped, exotic garden by Harold Peto on behalf of Belfast businessman, Annan Bryce. This unusual island boasts Neo-Classical follies as well as an array of sub-tropical flora and exotic shrubbery. Garinish Island is also home to a Japanese rockery featuring beautiful Bonsai trees, and a lovely New Zealand fernery. One of the highpoints of the island is undoubtedly the impressive Italianate garden, home to a beautiful lily pool and a Classical folly. The island also offers visitors wonderful views of rugged Bantry Bay