Ireland

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Cork

Cork City is the third largest city in Ireland and has always been an important seaport. It began on an island in the swampy estuary of the River Lee (the Irish for Cork 'Corcaigh' means a marsh) and gradually climbed up the steep banks on either side. Today the river flows through the city in two main channels so you find yourself constantly crossing bridges. The city owes its origins to St. Finbarr who in the 6th century founded a monastery on the south bank of the River Lee where St. Finn Barre's Cathedral stands today. Today Cork blends its history and culture with the amenities of a cosmopolitan city and will be the European City of Culture in 2005.

Local Places of Interest and Activities

Old Midleton Distillery — The visitor is invited to take a one hour tour of the Old Midleton Distillery, the home of Jameson Irish whiskey. The guided tour begins with an audio visual presentation followed by a walk through the beautifully restored industrial complex, unique within Ireland and Britain. See the fully operational Water Wheel, large Grain Stores, Mill Buildings and the largest Pot Still in the world. With the appetite suitably whetted take time to experience the famous tutored Irish Whiskey Tasting in the Jameson Bar.

Blarney Castle — A historic and nostalgic place steeped in history and the ancestral seat of the McCarthy Clan. Nobody is quite certain how the Elizabethan comment developed into the legend that the gift of eloquence may be derived from kissing the Blarney Stone, but it is likely that the stone itself had some significance in the McCarthy Clan. The Kissing Stone itself is set in the battlements and to kiss it the visitor must lie on the walk within the walls, grasp a guard rail, lean back and touch the stone with their lips. It sounds dangerous but it isn't and nobody should leave Blarney without kissing the stone! Also, an opportunity to visit the famous Blarney Woollen Mills for excellent shopping.

St Finn Barre's Cathedral — Situated on a hill and named after the city's patron saint, this early French Gothic cathedral is one of the finest buildings in the city. It stands where the saint established his monastic school about 650 AD. Among its most striking features are the fine rose window, the mosaic pavements and the elaborate carving throughout. The main doorway has a carving depicting the five wise and five foolish virgins meeting the bridegroom

Cobh Heritage Centre — The story of Cobh's origins, it's unque history and legacy are dramatically recalled at The Queenstown Story - a stunning multi media exhibition at Cobh's restored Victorian Railway Station. Themes include The Titanic (Cobh was her last port of call), Emigration & Famine. From 1848 - 1950 over 6 million adults and children emigrated from Ireland - over 2.5 million departed from Cobh, making it the single most important port of emigration.

Tours of Surrounding Area

Kinsale — One of Ireland’s most attractive villages. Visitors are captivated by the town's setting, its long waterfront, narrow streets and slate-clad houses. The bulk of Compass Hill rises sharply over the town, overlooking a natural harbour of great beauty where the Bandon river turns south to the sea. Known as the gourmet captial of Ireland this harbour town has many fine restaurants who pride themselves on their high reputation for culinary expertise. Visits are recommended to the Norman built 12th century church of St.Multose, the 15th century Desmond Castle housing the International Museum of Wine, Charles Fort, the Kinsale Brewing Company and the many interesting speciality shops.

Stephen Pearce Pottery — located a few hundred yards from the village of Shanagarry and the sleepy fishing village of Ballycotton. Stephen Pearce pottery is all hand made and hand decorated. It continues a 250 year tradition of hand crafted pottery in Co. Cork. In the ancient rural setting of Shanagarry it is easy to appreciate the unique quality of each pot, especially when you see for yourself the person and the hands that created it. Visitors are welcome to watch this ancient craft or to browse through the shop which stocks a selection of Simon Pearce Glass, Jewellery, Linens and of course the entire ranges of Stephen Pearce.

The Mizen Peninsula & Ballydehob — The Mizen Peninsula is an area of truly rugged beauty. Travelling west along the N71 from Skibbereen to Ballydehob the sea vista is awesome, with the Fastnet Rock Lighthouse to be seen in the distance. Ballydehob's twelve-arch bridge overlooks a water sports lagoon. Here, the N71 takes a right for Bantry, but you can continue straight on through the village to complete the Mizen tour. (Full Day touring).