About Us | Links | Press Room | Sitemap
Cork City Break
Cork is the largest county in Ireland with undulating land interrupted by long ridges of sandstone with picturesque river valleys in between. To the west these ridges increase until they mass in peaks along the Kerry border, whilst the long coastline juts into the Atlantic enclosing deep island-strewn bays. Cork is home to the reputed ‘most talkative people of the nation’ with their characteristic sing-song cadence akin to the hilly streets of the city with the same name!! History has always credited the ‘Corkonians’ with streaks of independence and stubbornness during tumultuous times which earned them the name of ‘The Rebel County’.
Places of Interest
Cork City is situated on the banks of the River Lee, which flows through the city in two main channels, so you find yourself constantly crossing bridges!! A wonderful City, Cork was the dedicated European City of Culture in 2005 truly bringing it into the 21st Century. Cork is also home to the oldest yacht club in the world dating back to 1720, sailing continues to be a popular pastime to this day thanks to the magnificent coastline and regattas take place from May to August all around the coast.
Cork has a reputation as a culinary paradise, where food is increasingly a cause for celebration. The region’s artisan food producers join forces with the county’s many famous restaurants to showcase Cork’s tradition of fine food. Don’t eat too much before you come!!!
Cork would really give Venice a run for its money when it comes to bridges, so to avoid any confusion and to get your bearings whilst learning all about the History and Hotspots, Cork City Tour is the one. Join the open top bus at Grand Parade. Tel: 021 4255100. Or, for the more energetic take a Walking Tour of the city which ends (justifiably) in a traditional Irish pub for a pint!! Tel: 021 4885405
Widely acknowledged as an architectural gem, St Finbarre’s Cathedral stands on perhaps the oldest site in Cork. This three-spired Gothic Cathedral was completed in 1879 on the site where St Finbarre is believed to have founded his monastery in the seventh century. Sense the history; join in worship in this spiritual building. www.cathedral.cork.anglican.org
Known by the locals as ‘the covered market’, the English Market in Cork City is infamous for the ‘artisan’ food which is sold there. Everything from breads, cheeses, organic fruit & vegetables, to tripe and drisheen! Wander through this haven of food, bet you won’t leave empty handed!
Blarney, a pleasant talk, intended to deceive without offending!! Just 8km from Cork City you have to visit Blarney Castle and kiss the stone which confers eloquence on all who kiss it! If you want to get a word in edgeways in this ‘chatty county’, be sure and get in line!! www.blarneycastle.ie
In the 17th century, Charles Fort was built on the eastern bank of Kinsale Harbour to protect the town. Ireland’s most massive fortification and is star-shaped in plan. This was to provide cross-fire from a number of directions against any potential aggressor. Unfortunately it was finally taken over via its weakest point, firing down upon it from high ground behind it!!! A monumental attraction.
Follow the trail of the Old Midleton Distillery through mills, maltings, corn stores, still houses, warehouses and kilns and view the largest ‘pot still’ in the world and see how the amber nectar is created! Better still, (excuse the pun!) finish of with a taste of Jameson Whiskey!! www.classicwhiskey.com
Hold on to your hat for a visit to the Mizen Head Signal Station. Mizen Head is Ireland’s most southwesterly point and the location of a dramatically –sited lighthouse above the Heads treacherous rocks. On the way descend the famous 99 steps and cross over the Arch Bridge where you may see dolphins, whales, kittiwakes & gannets. See there, the automatic Weather Station and Navigational Aids Simulator. www.mizenhead.ie
One of the most progressive wildlife parks in Europe, Fota is a great day out for all the family. With more than ninety species wandering in open natural surroundings, you have to keep your eyes peeled or you’ll miss something. Be sure and bring a picnic to complete your outing. www.fotawildlife.ie
Cobh, or you may be more familiar with its previous name Queenstown. Yes, that’s right it was to Queenstown that the ill fated Titanic made her last port of call. Retrace the steps of the 2.5 million adults and children who emigrated from Ireland via Cobh on Coffin Ships, early steamers and finally on the great ocean liners. www.cobhheritage.com
Where to eat and stay
Aherne's Townhouse & Restaurant
Luxury accommodation and 'the finest seafood in the world'. Aherne's is a small, luxury hotel with a world famous reputation for its welcome, luxury accommodation and outstanding food. Run by the Fitzgibbon family for three generations, Aherne's of Youghal is one the beautiful south coast of Ireland.
Ballymaloe House
Ballymaloe House is a large family farmhouse, situated on a 400 acre farm, 20 miles east of Cork city. The house is two miles from the coast, near the small fishing village of Ballycotton and many small sandy coves and beaches. The Knockmealdown and Comeragh Mountains are about one hour's drive away.
Blairs Cove House
In this 250 year old Georgian country house standing at the head of Dunmanus Bay, everything revolves around the courtyard. It is finely restored with cobbled paths, shrubs and flowers. The old stone outbuildings house three beautiful suites and the restaurant with its magnificent dining room converted from the old stableblock.
Hayfield Manor
Hayfield Manor Hotel is tucked away in a leafy corner of mature private gardens only 1 mile from Cork city centre. Family owned and managed, Hayfield Manor is the ideal retreat to experience Cork's great art galleries, opera and historic university.
Longueville House
Set in 500 acres of wooded estate in the heart of the Blackwater Valley, Longueville House is a 1720 Georgian Heritage Mansion owned and run by the O'Callaghan family....
Ireland's Blue Book of Country Houses & Restaurants
7/8 Mount St Crescent, Dublin 2. Ireland
Tel: (+353) 01-6769914 | Fax: (+353) 01-6314990 | Email:enquiry@irelandsbluebook.com
