50 Things Bantry 2019 by southernstarIRL

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Leisure Centre Open Daily Indoor Swimming Pool • Children’s Bubble Pool Sauna • Steam Room • Jacuzzi 1 Adult €10.50 | Children €6.50 | Family (2x2)€26 Ts&Cs Apply.

Tennis Court hire €11 9 Hole Pitch and Putt Adult €8.50 Child €4.50 Club hire €3 OPENING HOURS

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Homestyle, Homestyle, Fashion Fashion & & Nursery Nursery Stores Stores Homestyle, Fashion & Nursery Stores Homestyle Ladieswear Children’s Menswear Homestyle Ladieswear Children’s Store Store Menswear Homestyle, Fashion & Nursery Stores Store •Homestyle •Ladieswear •Children’s •Menswear • Bedding Bedding & & Linens Linens • Fashion Fashion • Kidswear Kidswear • Casual Casual wear wear •• Ready made curtains • Lingerie • School Uniforms • Sportswear Homestyle, Fashion & Nursery Stores Ready made curtains •Ladieswear Lingerie •Children’s School Uniforms •Menswear Sportswear Homestyle Store • Bedding & Linens • Fashion • Kidswear • Casual wear •• Rugs •• Sportswear Rugs Sportswear •• Ready made curtains •• Lingerie Accessories Bags Accessories •Ladieswear Bags & & Accessories Accessories •Homestyle Bedding & Linens Fashion • Rugs • Sportswear •• Ready made curtains • Lingerie Accessories • Bags & Accessories •• Bedding & Linens •• Fashion Rugs Sportswear Main Street, Bantry • 027 543 •• Ready made curtains •• Lingerie Main Street, Bantry 543 10 10 Accessories Bags•&027 Accessories • Rugs • Sportswear Main Street, Bantry • 027 543 10 • Accessories • Bags & Accessories

•• Nursery •• Footwear Nursery Footwear •• School Uniforms •• Sportswear Toys Accessories Store Toys •Menswear Accessories •Children’s Kidswear wear • Nursery • Casual Footwear •• School Uniforms • Sportswear Toys • Accessories • Kidswear •• Casual wear Footwear ••••• Nursery info@burkesbantry.ie School Uniforms • Sportswear info@burkesbantry.ie Toys • Accessories • Footwear ••• Nursery info@burkesbantry.ie Toys • Accessories

www.burkesbantry.ie www.burkesbantry.ie MainServing Street, Bantry • 027 543 10 • info@burkesbantry.ie the people Serving the people of of West West Cork Cork Since Since 1986 1986 www.burkesbantry.ie Serving the people of West Cork Since 1986 www.burkesbantry.ie www.burkesbantry.ie Main Street, Bantry • 027 543 10 • info@burkesbantry.ie

ADULTS: Mon - Fri 7am - 9pm Weekends & Bank Holidays: 8.30am - 8pm CHILDREN: Mon - Sat: 10am - 8pm / Sun: 10am - 7pm 4

Serving the people of West Cork Since 1986

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Serving the people of West Cork Since 1986

Enjoy picturesque Bantry Harbour in West Cork from the Water

LEISURE CENTRE 027 50557 LEISURECENTRE@WESTLODGEHOTEL.IE WWW.WESTLODGEHOTEL.IE

The Bantry Blueway offers beginner, intermediate and advanced trail routes. For more information visit www.bantrybayport.com

Céad mile fáilte! – which translates as ‘one hundred thousand welcomes’ – to the 2019 edition of ’50 Things To See & Do in Bantry and the surrounding area,’ which is designed to help you have a great time while visiting us here. Our guide is equally useful for locals as well as visitors, as there is a lot more to do in the area than many people may realise. It suggests places to visit and activities for all the family to try, most of them available all year round, and it is ideal for keeping in your hotel or B&B room, hire car, home or bag for easy reference. If you are here on holidays, we extend a warm welcome to you, on our own behalf and that of Bantry Development & Tourism Association and the Bantry Business Association, whose members will do everything they can to make your stay a pleasant one. Those living in Bantry and the surrounding area should also take some time out to enjoy the wonderful activities and places to see that abound in this lovely locality that they are so lucky to be in the midst of.

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All the best from the Southern Star team publishers of ‘50 Things To See & Do’

Editorial: Layouts: Advertising:

Con Downing Niall O’Driscoll, Michael Stephens Donnchadh Crowley, Sue Ryan, Jennifer Barron Ad design: Irene Paradisi, Muireann Brady Photography: Adrian Cronin; Tony McElhinney; Fáilte Ireland; Shutterstock and others

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For all enquiries about this magazine or other publications, please email: 50things@southernstar.ie

An aerial view of Bantry town and inner harbour.

Bantry is a colourful, bustling town set at the head of Bantry Bay, a spectacular, natural, deep-water gulf. The town has a vibrant and colourful shopping district as it is a hub town for a large catchment area. The paved town square is the focal point of Bantry where many local events and festivals are held – including a thriving farmers’ market every Friday. It is a friendly and welcoming town with plenty happening to entertain locals and visitors alike. Nestled between the Sheep’s Head and Beara Peninsulas, Bantry has some wonderful scenery and is surrounded by gentle hills, woods and streams and has both coastal and cliff walks. There are many heritage walks around Bantry and information points are strategically placed around town highlighting them, as well as outlining the history and wildlife of the area. The friendly staff at the community-run tourist office in Bantry are only too happy to guide and advise visitors to the area.

Also available online

50 Things To See & Do is also available as an online magazine to read on your computer, tablet or smartphone and you can share it with your friends and family. Visit: www.southernstar.ie/magazines

Wishingall allour our Wishing customersaa customers MerryChristmas Christmas&& Merry PeacefulNew NewYear Year aaPeaceful New Street, Bantry

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Aran Knitwear Donegal Tweeds Local Irish Crafts Irish Linen Celtic Jewellery Outdoor Clothing Children’s Section

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STAY FROM €80 PPS INC. BREAKFAST TO BOOK Call +353 (0)27 63003 or email reservations@eccleshotel.com www.eccleshotel.com

Bantry House

Visit Bantry House and climb the iconic 103 steps for a spectacular view of the house and Bantry Bay beyond it. Explore the gardens and discover delights, such as a croquet lawn, grass tennis court, circular flower beds, sunken gardens. Be sure to follow the stream walk or the woodland walk up to the walled garden and also check out the 1796 French Armada Exhibition Centre. www.bantryhouse.com

The Bantry Blueway

Bantry Blueway takes paddlers on a choice of 2km, 6km or 9km water trails in the picturesque harbour, encompassing up to seven different points, starting at Abbey Slipway and taking in Whiddy Island before moving across to Reenbeg Point and back via Railway Pier. Blueways are water paths or trails developed to encourage recreation, ecological education and preservation of wildlife resources. Kayakers and other water users actively seek out official trails like Bantry Blueway, which are vetted and approved, with safety the paramount consideration. See www.bantrybayport.com To hire kayaks, boats or stand-up paddleboards contact Bantry Bay Boat Hire. See: www.bantrybayboathire.ie.

Wild Atlantic View

This lookout point above Seskin offers the most panoramic view of Bantry town as it nestles below in the rolling hills. There is a picnic facility and a large parking area. There is a way-marked walk, which you can explore up to the top of Knocknaveigh Hill, also known locally as Vaughan’s Pass. Remember your camera for this outing, or if you have more time, take a canvas and an easel and try and capture the view in a painting.

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For all your grocery requirements

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SUPPLYING RESTAURANTS, HOTELS AND HOLIDAY HOMES. Central Fish Market, New Street, Bantry | Tel: 027-53714

The Square, Bantry Tel: 027 50104 Fitzgeralds Street, Macroom Tel:026 23986

Harbour View, Bantry | (027) 56662

Golf galore on offer!

Béicín Walk

The Béicín Walk is one of five Bantry Heritage Council loop walks. The entire loop is an easy grade consisting of paths and pavements for the entire 2.5km, which makes it very popular with families who have buggies to push or with young children on bicycles. The promenade also has a variety of open-air gym equipment all along the seafront, which makes it a most scenic way to keep fit.

Whiddy Island

Golfers are spoilt for choice in this area: Bantry Bay Golf Club is a superb 18-hole championship golf course, designed by the late Christy O’Connor Jnr. The course is situated in a stunning scenic setting with 14 of the holes overlooking the bay and the breathtaking sea views of the islands and the mountains of Beara will stay with you for a long time, even if you’re having and off-day on the greens! Another option is Glengarriff Golf Club with its nine-hole course also located in a spectacular scenic setting. The club’s honorary president was longtime local resident, the late great Hollywood film star Dr Maureen O’Hara-Blair.

Whiddy Island is a short ferry ride from Bantry Pier. Exploring the island on foot is easily done and the walks offer a diversity of nature and beautiful views, or you can hire a bicycle. A large assortment of birds makes it a birdwatchers’ paradise plus historical sites and ruins to see including a fortified battery built in Napoleonic times and the remains of an airstrip used during World War I by the United States 100 years ago. www.whiddyislandferry.com

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For full details on all gardens, prices and opening times visit www.westcorkgardentrail.com

Railway Pier, Bantry | 083 888 1102 | www.bantrybayboathire.ie

House of Crafts Wolfe Tone Square, Bantry. 027-50771 Full range of lamps, crystal, candles, scarves, knitwear, giftware, bags & jewellery

Go Fishing on Lough Bofinne

Albatross Escape Rooms

Experience a live action adventure game at the Albatross Escape Rooms, conveniently located at Wolfe Tone Square in Bantry. It is great bonding for family and friends or as a team-building exercise for workplace colleagues or as a fun way to get the craic going at stag or hen parties. Anyone over the age of 12 can play, but children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.Online advance booking only on www.albatrossescape.ie

Lough Bofinne is a stocked lake three miles out of Bantry, which offers wonderful fishing spots for anglers as the majority of the lake is fringed by roads and easily accessible. There is a floating pontoon and boats are available to hire. The lake has a high stock density of adult rainbow trout and is regularly stocked to give great angling returns. www.cfb.ie

Mon - Sat 8.30am - 6pm

Bantry Market

The Bantry Market is held on the square in Bantry on Fridays. Originally, the fair was held on the first Friday of every month with people bringing livestock, produce and bric a brac to sell. The market has grown in size and now incorporates a farmers’ market which has an assortment of organic produce, olives, eggs, cheese, fish, meats and local crafts.

Captain Francis O’Neill

Captain Francis O’Neill, a native of Tralibane, Bantry, who became police chief in Chicago, was responsible for writing down the old traditional Irish tunes which had been passed down from generation to generation. By doing so, he was able to save a lot of tunes which would have otherwise been lost or forgotten over time. The memorial to Chief O’Neill at Tralibane, a life-size bronze sculpture of him playing a flute, is well worth visiting to read the plaques on the commemorative wall. www.francisoneill.ie

The pillar stone at Kilnaruane The Kilnaruane stone is an isolated standing stone in a field overlooking Bantry Bay. It is of great importance as it has a very rare depiction of the kind of boat that St Brendan is assumed to have used to reach America. The inscriptions and carvings in the stone show four men in a boat, navigating skywards through a sea of crosses, which is why it is known locally as St Brendan’s Stone.

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Businesses advertising in this magazine. Map numbers correspond to numbers on adverts.

Sheep’s Head Peninsula 52

The Sheep’s Head is one of the three peninsulas in West Cork. Due to its beauty it has become a European Destination of Excellence – Tourism and Protected Areas (2009). The peninsula is threaded with magnificent walkways that are popular with locals and visitors alike as they take you along routes that cross Special Protection Areas where bird and wildlife are preserved and easily admired. The panoramic vista of the ocean and coastline while walking in unspoilt countryside is unparalleled and has been dubbed by many as the ‘Modern Day Eden’. 19

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Ryan’s

Durrus, Bantry 027 61184

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It would be difficult to find a more serene location than that of the garden of remembrance, set by the seashore at Ahakista for the 329 victims of the Air India flight from Montreal to Delhi, via London, which was blown up by a terrorist bomb off the south west coast of Ireland on June 23rd, 1985. The names of all those killed are inscribed on a monument in this oasis of tranquility where they are remembered annually on the anniversary by relatives and friends.

087 33 999 71

The Village Shop

Bantry Bay

Kealkil

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Sheep’s Head Lighthouse and Walks

The Sheep’s Head way is a fully marked 120km route which encompasses numerous loop walks of varying lengths and is ideal for self-guided walks and photo opportunities. At the end of the peninsula, Tooreen, there is a coffee shop and toilet facilities. From here, the lighthouse is an easy and accessible hike and, on a good day, you may be thrilled to see a passing 47 whale or pod of dolphins. www.livingthesheepsheadway.com To Kenmare, Killarney

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humble beginnings in a garage in 1980 and has Bere Isl since expanded through 33 sheer craftsmanship, flair and dedication to be the nationally-recognised forge that it has become. Today, the unique quality of the ironwork produced at Cronin’s is sought out by Durrus Village landscape architects and 22 (entrance to the left of interior designers across Wiseman's shop) P75 T923 Ireland. There is a retail outlet on site which is open to the Open Mon - Sat: 9.30am to 7.00pm public six days a week. from 1st March to 31st October. Sunday by appointment.

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Bridge View House Restaurant Kilcrohane

The Sheep’s Head Producers Glengarriff Market and Shop

Situated in the Old Creamery in Kilcrohane, this is a delightful initiative that shows how a community can get together and provide a vital economic link to the area. The ethos is wonderfully green and sustainable as all the artisan produce is locally-sourced and created. It is a lovely outlet for small-scale produces and a focal meeting point in the community.

€8.00 per adult | T: 087 639 2477

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Bespoke Memorials, Beginners Carving - Letter Cutting Workshops Ahakista, Co. Cork | T: 086 0514116 |E: info@thestonecarver.com www.thestonecarver.com

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Use any or all of the attached images. Thanks.

For the Best Value, Best Service & Quality Food Open from 6pm 7 days (On the bridge in Kilcrohane village) Our facilities include: Bed & Breakfast Self-catering cottages also available Attractive rates for groups and parties Phone: 027 67086 / 086 070 9369 Email: Info@bridgeviewhouse.com

BUBBLE is a sweet and ice cream shop with crepes, shakes and so much more! Based on the main street in bustling Bantry, right along the Wild Atlantic Way ... BUBBLE is a fun, family-friendly and creative space for all ages.

New Street, Bantry

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@bubblebantry

Glengarriff, Ballylickey & Kealkil

GLENGARRIFF

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Bantry Bay Glengarriff, famous for its mild Gulf Stream climate and lush vegetative growth, is a gateway to the Beara Peninsula. Gleann Garbh, meaning ‘Rough Glen’ boasts many natural attractions and is home to the wonderful Glengarriff Nature Reserve. The Blue Pool Amenity site is an asset to the town and worth a visit and is also one of the places from which to catch a ferry to the famous Ilnacullin Gardens on Garinish Island. Glengarriff is a thriving cosmopolitan village which has about 800 inhabitants on a permanent basis. This number swells considerably during the summer months when visitors flock to the village as they have done since the 1700s, when it boomed in Victorian times as a destination of note on the Prince-Of-Wales Route.

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Businesses advertising in this magazine. Map numbers correspond to numbers on adverts.

Bamboo and Ewe!

On the way into Glengarriff from the Bantry side you’ll find The Bamboo Park. This is a great place for families to explore pathways that weave through the bamboo plantations leading to exotic gardens where ferns, palm trees, hydrangea, fuchsia and cosmos thrive. Discover the little cove where you can enjoy the magnificent Glengarriff Harbour. Afterwards enjoy a treat in the park’s stylish café. On the other side of Glengarriff, heading for Kenmare, the Ewe Experience is Ireland’s only fully interactive outdoor art gallery. Nestled within a 280-acre nature reserve, the Ewe is full of sculptures and surprises in the woodlands as you stumble upon delights made from textiles, mosaics, ceramics, steel, copper, concrete, wood, glass and mixed media. It is a truly memorable place to visit and the kind of place where you discover that ‘the more you look, the more you see.’

Garnish Island (Ilnacullin, Garinish or Garnish), bequeathed to the Irish people in 1953, is located in the sheltered harbour of Glengarriff in Bantry Bay and is world renowned for its Italianite gardens which are laid out in beautiful walks and have some stunning specimen plants which are rare in this climate. To get there, take the Garnish Island Ferry from Glengarriff Pier passing seal island where you will see the very tame seal colony. The island also boasts a restored Martello tower.

Glengarriff Nature Reserve

These woods are one of the finest examples of sessile oak woods in Ireland. There are several walks within the reserve and all are clearly marked out along well-maintained paths. The Riverside walk is a gentle loop walk of about 1km. The Big Meadow Walk (3.5km) and the steep walk up to Lady Bantry’s Lookout are two other very popular walks in the woods.

Ferry to beautiful Garinish Island Blue Pool Ferries operate from the Blue Pool, next to Quills Woollen Market in the centre of Glengarriff. 25

The Garden of Re-Imagination

Secret Location, Glengarriff, West Cork

Special discount with this advert

Tel: 027 63333 • www.bluepoolferry.com 10

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Bluepool – Poulgorm

This is a beautiful, public picnic area in the heart of Glengarriff village. It is also the port for two ferries and has a delightful, short walk through the woods to the children’s playground.

Based mainly at Snave Pier, the popular and refreshing seaweed baths pop up in various other coastal areas of West Cork more or less all year round. To find them, follow their Facebook and Instagram pages where location updates are generally announced on a Wednesday evening and then come find them or make a booking.

Kealkil Parkland & Carriganass Castle

Kealkil Parkland at Carriganass Castle is a site of about is about 4.5 acres, including a 1.1km loop walk, an outdoor gym and even 12 fairy houses – made by local schoolchildren – dotted along the route. Located on the northern bank of the Ouvane River near Kealkil, Carriganass Castle, built in 1541 by Dermot O’Sullivan Beare, is steeped in history. www.carriganasscastle.com

Future Forests

Future Forests is an award-winning and innovative garden centre. The shop is built out of wood and children love treading their way through the paths that wind around fruit trees and over little streams. Future Forests stocks a huge selection of plants from bare-rooted trees and shrubs to roses and perennial flowers. You can choose your garden and have it posted directly to your home.

Kealkil Stone Circle

The megalithic site comprises a stone circle, standing stones and cairn. The stone circle consists of five axis stones and the standing stone, over four metres high, is thought to be the highest standing stone in Ireland. The hike up to the stone is rather strenuous and can be wet in places, but the views of Bantry Bay and Mullaghmesha Mountain make it well worth the effort.

Wild Atlantic Seaweed Baths

Holy Well at Kealkil

There are over 3,000 holy wells in Ireland, but one to visit has to be the Kealkil Holy Well. Immaculately maintained and painted with white and blue trim, it has an aura of holiness and stillness around it. Amongst all the statuettes of Mother Mary, look out for the little statue of a nun who stands out endearingly in her black habit and cloak.

WWW.GLEN GARRIFFPARK.COM

Located in the centre of the beautiful village of Glengarriff. A traditional bar, great food and 3 star accommodation.

Glengarriff Kenmare • Kinsale • Killarney

FREE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE ON ALL PURCHASES OVER €100 MacCarthy’s Bar & The Park Bistro at the Glengarriff Park Hotel offers exceptional individually crafted dishes using only the finest local produce, a perfect choice when dining in West Cork. • Open daily. • Selection of teas, coffees, freshly baked scones. • Serving seafood, steaks, fresh salads & the usual favourites. • Bar Menu is served all day. • Varied and interesting menu using only the finest local produce.

Live music at the weekends The Glengarriff Park Hotel, The Village, Glengarriff, West Cork, Ireland TEL: +353 (0)27 63000 FAX: +353 (0)27 63526

Weavers of Ireland ... paying homage to the tradition & crafts of Irish weaving. We are passionate about product and passionate about homegrown, we are the Weavers of Ireland.

Glengarriff, Co. Cork • 027 63201 service@weaversofireland.com • www.weaversofireland.com 11

Beara Peninsula

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Beara Peninsula

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Adrigole

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50 Things to see and do

The Beara Peninsula is the most rugged and wildly romantic of all of West Cork’s Peninsulas. It remains one of the most unexplored peninsulas due to the fact that its narrow winding roads and breathtaking mountain passes cannot accommodate average tour buses. The Beara Peninsula has two mountain ranges, the Caha Mountains and Slieve Miskish Mountains running down its spine which both contribute to its rugged and untamed landscape and enhance its natural beauty. The entire peninsula is studded with archaeological sites such as stone circles and wedge tombs as well as being steeped in myths and legends – it is definitely a place for curious minds to visit.

Dursey Cable Car

At the very tip of the Beara peninsula, you will find Ireland’s one and only cable car. The cable car links the mainland to Dursey Island and offers a thrilling crossing. There is a font of holy water in the car. The ride takes about ten minutes as it dangles you 250m across the Dursey sound, a notoriously-treacherous channel of water. www.durseyisland.ie

Cycling is a hugely popular activity in West Cork and nowhere more so than in the Bantry-Beara area. For example, the Beara Way cycle route is a designated National Cycling Route, which takes in some stunning scenery and is for the most part on relatively quiet country roads. This 138km route, which is signposted, travels the entire peninsula, and passes through the various towns and villages along the way.

Kayak with seals in Adrigole!

Kayaking is on offer West Cork Sailing Centre in Adrigole, which has such a sheltered bay. It makes an ideal venue for beginners, who will also be delighted with the inquisitive seals who like to swim alongside the kayaks. www.westcorksailing.com

Get on your bike!

Castletownbere – Colourful fishing port

Castletownbere is Ireland’s leading whitefish port and boasts one of the finest natural harbours on the coast. It is a lovely town to visit and many of the Beara Way walking trails originate in the area. Be sure to visit the famous MacCarthy’s Bar on the square which is featured on the cover of Pete McCarthy’s book of that name. Dating back to the 1870s, as little as possible has changed since.

31 Allihies Copper Mines and Museum

The town of Allihies is the most westerly parish of Co Cork and has a ‘new view around every corner.’ The Allihies Copper Mine Museum tells of the miners’ lives and of the conditions they worked in, including those of the women and children. The museum also has an art gallery, gift shop and café.

33 32

A Buddhist meditation centre, the Dzogchen Beara community extends a warm and open-hearted welcome to everyone. It aims to offer a place of peace for people of all spiritual traditions and none. Drop in to their café, stay a while, attend an event or simply enjoy a peaceful walk and some of the best ocean views in the world. www.dzogchenbeara.org

Adrigole and the Healy Pass

Adrigole is the gateway to the Beara Peninsula and it is from here that the Healy Pass can be accessed. The Healy Pass is one of the most panoramic mountain passes in Ireland and rises to an elevation of 334m as it cuts its way up to the two highest points in the Caha range, where it passes through, into Kerry. It is named after Tim Healy, the first governor-general of the Irish Free State, who was born in Bantry.

LOCAL PRODUCE

O’Sullivan’s

FILLING STATION

WEEKEND WOOD FIRED PIZZAS

Glengarriff Tel: 027-63849

GOURMET SANDWICHES

FINE WINES & CRAFT BEERS

Dzogchen Beara

The Square, Bantry

www.albatrossescape.ie CALL 083 895 7777

DELI, WINES, LOTTO, ATM. SEATING AREA. SEE INSTORE FOR SPECIAL OFFERS. 35

OPEN: Mon to Fri 7am - 9pm Saturday & Sunday 8am - 9pm

Harrington’s Maple Leaf Bar & Beer Garden Tel: 027 63021 33

ne number to MANNING'S EMPORIUM, BALLYLICKEY, BANTRY P75 CX86 www.manningsemporium.ie 027 50456

WHERE ALL SPORTSMEN MEET

& Ice crea m

The Village - Glengarriff | 027 63756

There is always a friendly welcome in the Boston Bar

edencrest B&B

On the Wild Atlantic Way

Unisex Hair & Beauty salon

30 Newtown, Glengarriff Road, Bantry Tel: 087 3220760 Rooms with views of Bantry Bay

PROPRIETOR: DANNY COLLINS | T: 027 55642

Food, drink, music, sport and ...craic! Where all sound people meet!

Beicín Walk

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Bantry town

Playground

Bus Stop

Garda Station

Toilets

Information

Cinema

Pharmacy

Post Office Medical Centre

50 Things to see and do Businesses advertising in this magazine. Map numbers correspond to numbers on adverts.

To Bantry Bay Golf Club Ballylickey, Glengarriff, Beara Peninsula

To Bantry Peace Park and MUGA facilities

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The ‘Wild Atlantic View’ across Bantry Bay. (Photo: Adrian Cronin)

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St. Chapel

To Bantry Hospital, Wild Atlantic View 3

MUGA in Peace Park

Work off those excesses with some gentle exercise in the multi-use games area (MUGA) in Bantry’s Peace Park, a family-friendly park, welcoming to people of all ages and abilities that is proving popular with locals and visitors alike. With a new basketball court and play area added this year, there are plans to expand it even further, adding adult exercise machines and a walking track around the park.

Bantry Water Wheel

Bantry Cinemax

The Bantry Cinemax is a three-screen cinema that shows all the latest releases – including certain films in 3D. It makes a wonderful venue for family-time out on a rainy day. The Cinemax also has a marvellous line up of arthouse films, which are shown each Tuesday night at 8.30pm. www.cinemaxbantry.com

NEWTOWN Pharmacy

Wide range of mother and baby care in-store 37

The public library is now situated where the Bantry Woollen Mills used to operate from. The waterwheel has been restored and now works in its original position overlooking Bridge Street. It is particularly impressive to visit after a heavy rainfall.

COEN’S

NEWTOWN

Pharmacy PHARMACY 38 Wide range of mother and baby care instore Personal Advice Glengarriff Road, Bantry Opening Hours: 08.30 to 18.00 Mon- Sat PH: 027 56947 | E: newtown.bantry@healthmail.ie

Cosmetics

Prescriptions

Friendly Team

Prescriptions

Cosmetics

Personal Advice

Open: Mon to Sat 8.30-18.30 Sundays & every Bank Holiday Monday 11.00-12.00

Glengarriff Road, Bantry Opening Hours: 08.30 to 18.00 Mon- Sat PH: 027 56947 | E: newtown.bantry@healthmail.ie

Here to give you trusted advice that’s right

Open: Mon to Sat 8.30-18.30 Sundays & Bank Holiday Mondays 11.00-12.00

Wolfe Tone Square, Bantry (027) 50531 | Fax Number: 027 50701 Email: coens.bantry@healthmail.ie

Friendly Team Wolfe Tone Square, Bantry (027) 50531 | Fax Number: 027 50701 Email: coens.bantry@healthmail.ie

Visit Top of the Rock and become a farmhand! Visit this unique family-run farm in Drimoleague where you can stay in one of the seven delightful camping pods. The award-winning Pod Páirc is on the doorstep of Drimoleague’s heritage walks, and has excellent facilities onsite for families, couples and walkers. Every Saturday and Wednesday morning during summer, families can enjoy FARMHANDS, which is a twohour fun and learning experience on the farm for children and parents. For more details see: www.topoftherock.ie

Drimoleague Pitch and Putt

While in Drimoleague why not spend the afternoon polishing your swing and enjoying a game of pitch and putt. The course is open throughout the week for green fees and club hire. For further information, call 087-7641420/028-31186/31340.

Learn to Sail

The Bantry Bay Sailing Club offers ISA-approved courses in dinghy sailing and has courses for both beginners and improvers. The club operates off the Abbey slipway as it is a sheltered and safe spot. It offers competitive prices and provides dinghies for the duration of the course. bantrybaysailingclub.org

A TWO HOURS FUN AND LEARNING EXPERIENCE FOR CHILDREN ACCOMPANIED BY PARENT(S). We feed baby animals, gather eggs and learn about cattle and wildlife on the farm. We take a trip around the farm in our “hayride trailer” with refreshments along the way. Finally we colour in a worksheet and receive the Farmhands Certificate.

Cost €10/child or parent Booking essential.

Enjoy a spa day in Bantry

Contact David and Elizabeth Ross 086 173 5134 david@topoftherock.ie www.topoftherock.ie/farmhands Generally Saturdays (also Wednesdays in summer) 40

House of Crafts

Wolfe Tone Square, Bantry. 027-50771 Full range of lamps, crystal, candles, scarves, knitwear, giftware, bags & jewellery

stowawaycrafts@gmail.com

40 41

Hike up Mount Gabriel

The highest summit on the Mizen Peninsula, Mount Gabriel is 407 metres high and is used by the Irish Aviation Authority to house trans-Atlantic radar in two large domes. There are spectacular views from the top to the north across the Beara Peninsula towards South Kerry and southwards over Roaringwater Bay where the Fastnet Lighthouse can be seen on a clear day. There is also a road leading to the summit that you can drive up, if you are not into hiking.

Castledonovan

Castledonovan is a medium-sized tower house that was the seat of the Clann Cathail of the O’Donovans during the 16th century. In the 1640s, it was damaged by Oliver Cromwell’s forces who destroyed part of the structure with an explosion. Structural damage left the castle, near Drimoleague, standing idle for years, but its refurbishment has recently been completed and guided tours and entry are possible.

Alpaca Walk at Waterfall Farm

Situated near Castledonovan in Drimoleague, the Alpaca Farm has something for everyone. There is a onehour walk with the alpacas on a lead, which takes you by some amazing waterfalls and is quite a unique experience. A guided farm tour can also be arranged where you get to meet the giant rabbits and miniature donkeys. This, along with the alpaca walk, can be booked by calling Emma Bird at 028-31953 or 086-6153006.

Celebrating Irish Makers New Street, Bantry

NOW OPEN

Discover a shop full of Irish Craft & Design

Taking bookings for all occasions

Open 7 Days forestandflock

Located in Kilcrohane, along the Sheep’s Head Way, our restaurant can guarantee the best surroundings and a full menu to satisfy any appetite, from seafood to coffee & cake. All ingredients locally sourced • All desserts made in-house • Tea & Coffee

Kilcrohane Sheep’s Head, West Cork 027 67139

Hegarty’s Hegarty’s

T. +353 87 3861799 E. hello@forestandflock.ie

Main Street Bantry Main Street Bantry

027 027week50219 50219 7am - 10.30pm

Hot & Cold Deli Service Hot & ColdWine Deli Service Extensive Collection Extensive Wine Collection Confectionery Open 7 Days a Confectionery In-Store Bakery Open 7 Days a In-Store Bakery

week 7am - 10.30pm

Supermarket Supermarket

National Lottery Agent National Lottery & Agent Coal Briquettes Kindling Coal Briquettes & Kindling Tea, Coffee & Soup To Go Tea Coffee & Soup To Go Newsagency Newsagency

Schull Planetarium and Observatory

Ireland’s only planetarium is situated in West Cork, on the grounds of Schull Community College, and is a unique, educational resource. It was officially opened in 1989. Star shows are projected across the 8m dome of the planetarium and, as they can be up to 50 minutes in duration, children under seven are generally discouraged, as it cannot hold their attention for that amount of time. www. schullcommunitycollege.com/planetarium

45 The Caha Pass

The Railway Arch Bridge

The twelve-arch bridge is a magnificent railway bridge that, back in 1886, was celebrated as being a major feat of engineering. It spans the Ballydehob Estuary and makes a lovely walk with beautiful views. The last train crossed over the bridge on the January 27th, 1947 before the railway was permanently closed.

On the N71 from Glengarriff to Kenmare, the tunnels that pass through the Caha mountain range and into Kerry, are a sight that alone make the drive worthwhile. As you wind down the mountain on the other side, you will come to Molly Gallivan’s Cottage and Traditional Farm which is a treat to visit. Be sure to get a photo of the enormous wood Hand Crafted Piesover & Pastries carved Druid Quality as he stands, gazing out Pie Deli, located in the Old Quick Sandwiches and wraps together the valley. Pick premises, Glengarriff Road, with the freshest of salads, pastries

Pie Deli

Quality Hand Crafted Pies & Pastries Located in beautiful Bantry along the Wild Atlantic Way

Skibbereen

THE FAMINE STORY & Genealogy service

Using the finest of local West Cork ingredients to deliver the tastiest pies and pastries, traditional, contemporary, savoury and sweet OPEN Monday - Friday 09am-6pm Saturday 9am-5pm Closed Sunday and Bank Holidays Road, Bantry, Co. Cork Quality hand-crafted, tasty Pies &Glengarriff Pastries; Tel: 027 50975 | www.piedeli.ie traditional, contemporary, savoury & sweet Using the finest of West Cork ingredients. Sandwiches & wraps, fresh salads, delicious cakes & coffee also available

Pie Deli

Bantry, is an unusual concept owned and run by experienced chef Sinéad Desmond, a native of West Cork. Sinéad obtained her diploma from Ballymaloe Cookery School and then spent several years honing her culinary skills around the world. Sinéad discovered the pressure and stress of working in kitchens at home and abroad. Finally she returned to West Cork and worked for Laura and Andrew in Manning's Emporium, Ballylickey before opening her own enterprise Pie.

Although selling groceries and other day to day products, the core business of Pie Deli is specializing in pies that are focused on West Cork produce. Working with farmers, growers and producers, insistence is placed on the highest standards in terms of quality, safety, environment and animal welfare. From the sourcing of the ingredients to the serving of the delicious, flavoursome pies. Everything is made on the premises from the classic traditional pie to the new and funky, savoury or sweet.

and cakes are available all packed with incredible flavours, along with coffee to go.

Parties and events, big or small can be catered for. Tailored packages to suit all tastes and budgets can be arranged. Sinéad understands that everyone is different and can cater for all dietary requirements. Services include anything from home delivery of food, hot or cold, Holy Communions and Confirmations, birthday parties and cakes and other celebrations and functions.

The website www.piedeli.ie includes a list of local suppliers and also an extensive menu of the products crafted at Pie Deli.

Open Mon-Fri 9-6; Sat 9-5 Sinéad and Pie Deli can be found at old Quick Pick Building, Closed Sundays and the Bank Holidays Glengarriff Road,50975 Bantry, Co. Cork Glengarriff Road, Bantry | 027 tel: 027 50975 eat@piedeli.ie | eat@piedeli.ie | email www.piedeli.ie www.piedeli.ie

SKIBBEREEN HERITAGE CENTRE Also features ... • Lough Hyne exhibition

• Giftshop

• Wheelchair access

• Adjacent car park

Open Daily ex. Sunday from May - September Open Tue - Sat other months, 10am - 6pm. Old Gasworks Building, Upper Bridge Street, Skibbereen Tel: 028 40900 | www.skibbheritage.com

Mealagh Woods

Situated at the top of the beautiful Mealagh Valley, this route takes you on a 3km meander through deciduous woodlands and along the banks of the Mealagh River. The ancient Barnagowlane West wedge tomb is in the area and is worth visiting as it dates back to the Neolithic age, making it about 4,000 years old. www.everytrail.com

Priest’s Leap

The Priest’s Leap gets its name from a legend where a priest was being pursued by soldiers and managed to escape by getting his horse to jump off a cliff. The horse sailed safely through the air and landed in Newtown, Bantry. The place where its hooves struck the ground has a commemorative plaque telling the tale. Knockboy, the summit, is the highest peak in Co Cork.

Horseriding – Take a ride on the wild side

A wonderful way to explore the terrain of West Cork is by horseback. It gives a better opportunity of noticing the hedgerows and finer details which are often overlooked whilst driving. There are a few horse riding centres of excellence around Bantry and most of them offer the opportunity of a hack or out-ride along a bridle path in addition to traditional riding lessons.

Ahanafunsion Bridge and Moyney Bridge Walks

Part of the Drimoleague Heritage Trails, these walks can be done individually or combined to make a longer walk. The Ahanafunsion Walk takes in the convergence of rivers and has stepping stones, which provide entertainment for young walkers. There is a bird-hide and a wild duck pond and a large wild bird conservation area along this Drimoleague Heritage Walkway, which starts in the Railway Yard, Drimoleague. The Moyney is a beautiful riverside woodland walk.

Stay Relax Explore Ilen Street, Skibbereen | Tel: 028 21277 | www.westcorkhotel.com 20

Enjoy the best of West Cork’s local produce all year round!

Great kids’ activities in the Bantry area

Brace yourself for a dip in the sea

The sea is a great attraction in the greater Bantry area with plenty of beaches to swi m at, relax and play on, and the Blueway (www.bant rybayport.com) offering paddlers of all ages and abilities a choice of three kayaking trails of varying levels. Further west, in Adrigole, another fun option is the nov elty of getting up close to the inquisitive seals who like to swim alongside the kayaks from the West Cork Sailing Centre (www. wildatlanticwildlife.ie). Have fun in the water, but stay safe and do what the inst ructors tell you.

Dedicated space for crafty types

Forest & Flock is a shop for all ages with a dedicated space given to their Childre n’s Creative Table. Perfect for a rainy day game of chess or dominos. A magical space to book in your over 7s for the Felt Fairy Workshops with Feltastik on July 3rd, July 6th & July 10th. Keep an eye to the ir social media or ask in shop about what is occurring dur ing your visit!

Taste the wonders of natur

e At a secret location near Gle ngarriff, only revealed when you book a tour, the Willy Wonka-themed Garden of ReImagination hosts two-hour Taste Tours between May and September, with other events and open days throughout the year, including exploring gardening on August 18th, 19th , 23rd & 25th; six yummy way s to enjoy seaweed on August 24th and Spooky Sup pers on October 28th & 29t h. Visit their website www. twogreenshoots.com for det ails of what’s on.

Great place to let off some

A road trip by car or bike to marvel at our scenery

Bantry makes an ideal base from which to tour both the Beara and Sheep’s Head peninsulas. Set aside a day for each – the longer route being the Beara circuit: Follow the N71 to Glengarriff and Kenmare, then left along the northern coastline, either taking the longer route (recommended) to Castletownbere, returning along the southern side, or cutting across through the Healy Pass to Adrigole and back via Glengarriff to Bantry.A similar anti-clockwise circuit of the Sheep’s Head Peninsula can be done via the Goats Path, around to Kilcrohane, Ahakista, Durrus and back to Bantry. The more energetic may follow these routes on their bicycles and truly feel the energy of the Wild Atlantic Way!

steam Children like nothing better than to work off their excess energy and there’s no healthie and fun way to do this than in r the multi-use games area (MU GA) in the Peace Park off the Glengarriff Road. This familyfriendly space is welcoming to people of all ages and abil with a new basketball court ities and play area added earlier this year, and more to follow.

Experience life on the farm

‘Top of the Rock’ pod park in Drimoleague is a popular plac e for young families to stay. While doing so, they can enjo y access to farm animals, incl uding donkeys, sheep, goats, calves and ducks. Those who are not staying there may also avail of their Saturday and Wednesday morning activity , ‘Farmhands’ – a two-hour fun experience for children where they get to feed the anim als, collect eggs and enjoy a trip on the ‘hayride trailer’ transporting sheep and lambs around the farm.

51 50

At an average depth of 3 feet, the Lagoon is the perfect place to rent a kayak or stand up paddle board and for the less adventurous there are plenty of peddle boats on offer too. If you are looking for the ultimate thrill this summer make sure and book in for West Cork’s latest and Ireland's largest floating waterpark. WITH SLIDES, TRAMPOLINES, OBSTACLES, MONKEY BARS AND MUCH MORE, you are sure to walk away eager to come back for more!

smugglers cove adventure centre rosscarbery - west cork

ADVENTURE GOLF - SMUGGLERS MAZE - REDFM MAZE info@smugglerscove.ie www.smugglerscove.ie Tel : 023 884 8054 - NO BOOKING NEEDED

When all your activities are over, sit back and relax with a pizza, some ice cream, a coffee, a smoothie or even a crepe, all freshly made in our boathouse cafe.

OPENING TIMES: June: 11am - 5pm

July and August: 10.30am - 6pm

Boat hire - No need to book. Water Park - Booking essential.

087 746 2720

info@lagoonactivitycentre.ie www.lagoonactivitycentre.ie

Ferry Cruise Service to

Mizen Head

Cape Clear Island & Fastnet Rock

Ireland’s most Southwesterly Point

From Baltimore & Schull

on the Wild Atlantic Way

“One of the best attractions in Ireland...” “... spellbinding”

Pic: John Eagle

K BOOINE

ONL RVE ESE TO R PLACE R YOU

• Modern & Comfortable Ferry • Bikes/kayaks only €2 • Fastnet Rock Lighthouse Tours

Mizen Café & Gift Shop www.mizenhead.ie

GPS: 51° 27’ 0.59” N - 9° 49’ 5.99” W

028-35000 / 35115

pottery studio

Sailings from Baltimore (year round) and Schull (June to August) with Fast Ferry operating out of Schull to Ireland’s most southerly island, the spectacular Cape Clear. These waters are renowned for its whale, dolphin and basking shark sightings. Our skippers make detours to give you the best possible views.

Paint-your-own pottery Classes for Adults & Kids Birthday parties Bring-your-own-bottle parties Baby hand & foot imprints Coffee, Tea & Treats

Book now on www.capeclearferries.com

8 Market Street, Skibbereen, Co. Cork P81 W867 | Tel: 028 22913 www.crepotterystudio.com

Sophie Miall & Suzanne O’Connor

Paint-your-own pottery Summer Camps & Workshops Birthday parties Bring-your-own-bottle parties Baby hand & foot Our iconic Fastnet Rock Lighthouse Tour runs imprints Paint-your-own pottery from May to September from both Baltimore Classes for Adults & Kids Coffee, Tea & Treats Birthday parties and Schull with a stop over in Cape Clear Island. Bring-your-own-bottle parties For imprints more information see www.fastnettour.com Baby hand & foot

pottery studio

8 Market Street, Skibbereen, Co. Cork P81 W867 • Paint-your-own potteryTel: 028 22913 • Pottery classes; Adults & Kids www.crepotterystudio.com • Learn to throw on the wheel • Birthday parties Sophie Miall & Suzanne O’Connor • Bring-your-own-bottle parties • Baby hand & foot imprints • Groups welcome • Coffee, Tea & Treats

22 pottery studio

Cré Pottery Studio 8 Market Street, Skibbereen, Co. Cork |P81 W867 Tel: 028 22913 | www.crepotterystudio.com Sophie Miall & Suzanne O’Connor

Coffee, Tea & Treats

Facebook: Capeclearferries T: 028 39159 / 087 3899711

8 Market Street, Skibbereen, Co. Cork P81 W867 | Tel: 028 22913 www.crepotterystudio.com

Sophie Miall & Suzanne O’Connor

WEST CORK GARDEN TRAIL

B A M B O O PA R K

There are 25 gardens on the West Cork Garden Trail. The following are some of the gardens in Bantry and its surrounding area. To find out more about the MEDICINAL 20 other gardens pick upHaE Rcopy ofD Ethe West Cork Garden Trail brochure which is available locally or visit www.westcorkgardentrail.com B GAR N 13

MEDICINAL HERB GARDEN This herbal garden is situated near the picturesque village of Ballydehob with lovely views of the surrounding countryside \ = and long views to Roaring Water Bay. There are several areas devoted to the growing of native and non-native species of plants, which Jacqueline, the owner, harvests and utilises in her clinical practice. The herb gardens, although structured, maintain a wild aspect and have beautiful blooms in the summer months which attract bees and butterflies. OPENING TIMES: Thursdays and Sundays, from Sunday 9th June, in June and July. Only by appointment. ENTRANCE FEE: €5 per person DIRECTIONS: Use Eircode/Postcode P81 XK13 with Google Maps. CONTACT: Jacqueline Kilbryde MNIMH MIRCMH, Cooragurteen, Ballydehob, Co. Cork Mob: 086-3369642 Email: jackiedaher@hotmail.com H E R O N G A L L E R Y, Web: herbalmedicineinpractice.com CAFÉ AND GARDENS My herbal garden is situated near the picturesque village of Ballydehob with lovely views of the surrounding countryside and long views to 9VHYPUN >H[LY )H` ;OLYL HYL ZL]LYHS HYLHZ devoted to the growing of native and non-native ZWLJPLZ VM WSHU[Z ^OPJO 0 OHY]LZ[ HUK \[PSPaL PU T` JSPUPJHS WYHJ[PJL ;OL OLYIZ NHYKLUZ HS[OV\NO Z[Y\J[\YLK THPU[HPU H º^PSK» HZWLJ[ HUK OH]L beautiful blooms in the summer months which H[[YHJ[ ILLZ HUK I\[[LYÅPLZ S P E C I A L F E AT U R E S

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All of the plants have medicinal actions and \ZLZ ZVTL HYL LKPISL 0 JHU [HSR HIV\[ [OPZ HUK PM WLVWSL HYL PU[LYLZ[LK [OL THRPUN VM L N HU PUM\ZLK OLYIHS VPS JHU IL KLTVUZ[YH[LK (This may require previous notice) B&B accommodation

OPENING TIMES Thursdays and Sundays, MYVT :\UKH` [O 1\UL PU 1\UL HUK 1\S` 6US` I` HWWVPU[TLU[ ENTRANCE FEE Á WLY WLYZVU

DIRECTIONS Use Eircode/Postcode P81 XK13 ^P[O .VVNSL 4HWZ Go up the main street in Ballydehob and turn right at the top of hill at Vincent Coughlan’s Pub, [OL Z[LHROV\ZL 7HZZ [OL ZJOVVS HUK *O\YJO VM 0YLSHUK VU [OL SLM[ HUK T VU [HRL [OL ÄYZ[ SLM[ turn (not the 2 left turns before, to houses) after [OL JO\YJO .V \W [OL OPSS HUK T` LU[YHUJL PZ [OL YK VU [OL SLM[ H[ [OL [VW CONTACT Jacqueline Kilbryde MNIMH MIRCMH, *VVYHN\Y[LLU )HSS`KLOVI *V *VYR 4VIPSL ,THPS! QHJRPLKHOLY'OV[THPS JVT ^^^ OLYIHSTLKPJPULPUWYHJ[PJL JVT

HERON GALLERY, CAFÉ & GARDENS An artist’s garden, full of colour and quirky ideas, echoing the creativity and unique work in the \ j 7 gallery. Organic vegetable beds and two polytunnels 5 = supply their wholefood café. A large wildlife pond is surrounded by a newly planted orchard of Irish Heritage apples and a wildflower meadow and young woodland where Fuchsia, Fay and Fern, the kunekune pigs graze. Wholesome lunches and delicious cakes are available in the café and artist Annabel Langrish’s work is on display. OPENING TIMES: 10.30am - 5.30pm every day from 1st April to end of August. ENTRANCE FEE: €5 DIRECTIONS: Use Eircode/Postcode P75 TW89 with Google Maps. K I L R AV O C K CONTACT: Annabel Langrish, Ahakista,G Durrus, Bantry. ARD EN Tel. 027 67278 Email: annabellangrish@gmail.com Web: herongallery.ie || annabellangrish.ie ENTRANCE FEE Á

An artist’s garden, full of colour and quirky ideas, echoing the creativity and unique work in the NHSSLY` 6YNHUPJ ]LNL[HISL ILKZ HUK WVS`[\UULSZ Z\WWS` V\Y ^OVSLMVVK JHMt ( SHYNL ^PSKSPML WVUK is surrounded by a newly planted orchard of Irish /LYP[HNL HWWSLZ HUK H ^PSKÅV^LY TLHKV^ HUK young woodland where Fuschia, Fay and Fern, the R\ULR\UL WPNZ NYHaL

DIRECTIONS Use Eircode/Postcode P75 TW89 ^P[O .VVNSL 4HWZ ;HRL [OL YPNO[ MVYR PU +\YY\Z [V^HYKZ :OLLWZOLHK (M[LY (Y\UKLSZ VU [OL 7PLY [\YU YPNO[ >L HYL TL[YLZ \W [OL OPSS VU [OL SLM[

Flower borders are splashes of luscious colours M\SS VM ILL MYPLUKS` HUU\HSZ HUK WLYLUUPHSZ Wholesome lunches and delicious cakes are available in the café and Annabel’s work can be ZLLU PU [OL ZOVW HUK NHSSLY`

OPENING TIMES H T W T L]LY` KH` from 1st April to end of August

CONTACT Annabel Langrish, Ahakista, Durrus, )HU[Y` *V *VYR ;LS ,THPS! HUUHILSSHUNYPZO'NTHPS JVT ^^^ OLYVUNHSSLY` PL ^^^ HUUHILSSHUNYPZO PL

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E S Gallery Café

Dogs on leads welcome

*OPSKYLU T\Z[ IL HJJVTWHUPLK H[ HSS [PTLZ Self catering accomodation

KILRAVOCK GARDEN Situated by the sea with extensive views over Dunmanus Bay, Kilravock Garden (1.7acres) is a moody Robinsonian-style coastal garden featuring \ j a large range of exotic shrubs and trees and selected native products that thrive in the relatively mild micro-climate there. A vast number of plants from all over the globe are to be found in different, contrasting zones, e.g. the Mediterranean Garden, the Woodlands Garden and the Southern Hemisphere Walk. Time permitting, tours are available but if you prefer to discover things alone, a guide map can be provided. OPENING TIMES: Viewing is strictly by appointment only. Please ring 027 61 983. ENTRANCE FEE: €5 per adult DIRECTIONS: Use Eircode/Postcode P75 CF99 with Google Maps. CONTACT: Ronnie Halligan, Kilravock Garden, Durrus. Tel. 027 61983 Email: garden.kilravock@gmail.com Web: www.kilravock.garden CARRAIG Shaped like an ice-cream cone and situated directly by the sea with extensive views over Dunmanus Bay, 2PSYH]VJR .HYKLU HJYLZ PZ H TVVK` 9VIPUZVUPHU style coastal garden featuring a very large range of exotic shrubs and trees and selected native products [OH[ [OYP]L PU [OL YLSH[P]LS` TPSK TPJYVJSPTH[L [OLYL ( vast number of plants from all over the globe are to IL MV\UK PU KPќLYLU[ JVU[YHZ[PUN aVULZ MVY L_HTWSL the Mediterranean Garden, the Woodlands Garden HUK [OL :V\[OLYU /LTPZWOLYL >HSR -VY NHYKLUPUN HÄJPVUHKVZ [OLYL HYL PU[YPN\PUN JVSSLJ[PVUZ VM restios (South Africa), sorbus, acers, tree ferns and JHTLSSPHZ *VTL HUK L_WSVYL H[ `V\Y SLPZ\YL ;PTL permitting, I will be glad to give you a tour, if you so ^PZO 0M `V\ OV^L]LY WYLMLY [V KPZJV]LY [OPUNZ HSVUL 0 ^PSS WYV]PKL `V\ ^P[O H N\PKL THW

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E S Coastal Garden directly by the sea on the Wild Atlantic >H` -V\UKLY .HYKLU VM [OL >LZ[ *VYR .HYKLU ;YHPS :LSM N\PKPUN [YHPS HUK NHYKLU THW .LYTHU ZWVRLU The garden is featured in The 100 Best Gardens in Ireland by Shirley Lanigan and in The Open Gardens of Ireland I` [OL ZHTL H\[OVY 0[ OHZ HSZV MLH[\YLK VU )YP[PZO .LYTHU -YLUJO (\Z[YPHU HUK (TLYPJHU ;=

ENTRANCE FEE Á WLY HK\S[

“A surprise around every corner”;

CONTACT ,\NLUL /HaLS >PZLTHU +\YY\Z *V *VYR 4VIPSL Email: carraigabhainndurrus@ `HOVV JVT -HJLIVVR JVT carraigabhainngardens

OPENING TIMES +HPS` H T W T from 15th March to 31st October GARDEN ENTRANCE FEE Á WLY HK\S[

ENTRANCE FEE (K\S[Z Á :LUPVYZ Á :[\KLU[Z Á :WLJPHS ULLKZ Á :WLJPHS NYV\W WYPJL MVY TPUPT\T VM WLVWSL *OPSKYLU MYLL :LHZVU [PJRL[Z H]HPSHISL

DIRECTIONS Use Eircode/Postcode P75 AF84 ^P[O .VVNSL 4HWZ )HTIVV 7HYR PZ LHZ` [V ÄUK! ZP[\H[LK KPYLJ[S` on the coastal road from Bantry to Kenmare 5 Q\Z[ ILMVYL [OL ,JJSLZ /V[LS .SLUNHYYPќ Coming from Kenmare the entrance, a huge QHWHULZL Z[`SL NH[L PZ H[ `V\Y YPNO[ H ML^ `HYKZ HM[LY WHZZPUN [OL ILH\[PM\S .SLUNHYYPќ /HYIV\Y

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E S ;LH *VќLL OVTLTHKL JHRLZ Dogs welcome Children free

Wedding photographs by appointment

CONTACT Manager Claudine de Thibault, )HTIVV 7HYR .SLUNHYYPќ *V *VYR ;LS ;PJRL[ 6ѝJL 4VIPSL ,THPS! IHTIVVWHYRS[K'LPYJVT UL[ ^^^ IHTIVV WHYR JVT -HJLIVVR JVT IHTIVVWHYRPYLSHUK

DIRECTIONS Use Eircode/Postcode P75 A020 ^P[O .VVNSL 4HWZ Midway between Bantry and Ballydehob, leave the N71 and follow the signposted )HSS`JVTTHUL YVHK MVY RT If coming from Durrus, take the back road starting at Wiseman’s HUK MVSSV^ P[ MVY RT >L HYL HSZV VU .VVNSL4HWZ

THE EWE EXPERIENCE Often described as Ireland’s Eden, and hailed by The Irish Times as the country’s No.1 garden, The Ewe is an innovative series of gardens along a 1km trail combining nature, art, science, narrative and humour. An artist’s home, it has evolved slowly over 25 years into an interactive open-air natural-history museum, with \ 7 a twist. Set along a spectacular mountain waterfall, the four themed gardens lead you on an intriguing exploration - back in time and back to nature. Widely featured in the media nationally and internationally; it is a playful, creative and relaxing experience for all. OPENING TIMES: June, July and August every day 10am -6 pm. ENTRANCE FEE: Adults €7.50; Children €6; Family of four (2 adults 2 kids) €25 DIRECTIONS: Use Eircode/Postcode P75 PY72 with Google Maps. GPS: N 51’4637 W 9’34’09 CONTACT: Sheena Wood and Kurt Lyndorff, The Ewe Experience, N71 Kenmare Road, Glengarriff, Co. Cork Tel. 027 63840 Email: info@theewe.com DERREEN Web: theewe.com GARDEN

“Irelands Top Ten Experience” LUFTHANSA

“Irelands #1 Garden” IRISH TIMES

6M[LU KLZJYPILK HZ º0YLSHUK»Z ,KLU» ;OL ,^L is an innovative series of gardens along a one km trail combining nature, art, science, narrative HUK O\TV\Y (U HY[PZ[»Z OVTL P[ OHZ L]VS]LK slowly over 25 years into an interactive open-air UH[\YHS OPZ[VY` T\ZL\T ^P[O H [^PZ[ :L[ HSVUN H spectacular mountain waterfall, the four themed gardens lead you on an intriguing exploration IHJR PU [PTL HUK IHJR [V UH[\YL >PKLS` MLH[\YLK in the media nationally and internationally; it is a WSH`M\S JYLH[P]L HUK YLSH_PUN L_WLYPLUJL MVY HSS Visitors enter Falling Water Garden, before crossing the waterfall into the Timeless Glen, a ZOHK` MVYLZ[ JSLHYPUN ;OL [YHPS TLHUKLYZ VU \W through the Environmental Forest, where many sculptures are made from re-cycled materials, to ÄUHSS` YLHJO [OL =HSSL` VM ,KLU ^OPJO IH[OLK PU S\ZO 1\YHZZPJ WSHU[PUN LUQV`Z ZWLJ[HJ\SHY ]PL^Z [V [OL TV\U[HPUZ HUK [OL ZLH

OPENING TIMES June, July and August every day H T W T ENTRANCE FEE (K\S[Z Á " *OPSKYLU Á " Family of four (2 adults 2 kids) Á DIRECTIONS Use Eircode/Postcode P75 PY72 with Google Maps .7:! 5 » > » » -YVT .SLUNHYYPќ! TPSLZ \W [OL 5 YVHK [V 2LUTHYL ¶ ^LSS ZPNUWVZ[LK From either direction look out for a map reading sheep on top of a ]PU[HNL JHY

ILNACULLIN/GARINISH ISLAND Ilnacullin, renowned as a unique island garden of rare beauty, is nestled into the sheltered coastal har\ 7set 5 bour of Glengarriff in Bantry Bay. The gardens were out in the Arts and Crafts style in Edwardian times and visitors can discover a wealth of unique architectural & horticultural gems, including an Italianate garden with 24 formal pond, pavilion, Casita and lawns; walled kitchen DERREEN GARDEN garden with herbaceous borders, fruit, roses & climbDerreen Garden covers ers; Martello tower with fine panoramic views; and the more than 60 acres of Happy Valley with its Grecian Temple, shrubberies and & GARDEN garden and has over rare trees. Bryce House (a short walk from the walled 12km of paths which wind 18 garden) is a fitting memorial to the visionary creators BANTRY HOUSE through mature and varied and custodians of this unique place. & GARDENS woodland full of rare and \ 7 5 n OPENING TIMES: Daily 1st April to 3rd November. April, Bantry House and Garden exotic plants. The garden is also a haven for all sorts of May, June: 10am. - 5.30pm. July & August: 9.30am is on the fringe of Bantry exciting and rare animals including pine martens and - 5.30pm. September: 10am - 5.30pm. 1st Oct - 3rd Town, commanding red squirrels and is also a great place to see an abunNov: 10am - 4.30pm magnificent views over dance of bird life. There are a number of walks around ENTRANCE FEE: Adult: €5, Group/Senior: €4, Student: \ u j 7 the bay. It is lived in by the garden taking 30 minutes to an hour, before 5 = €3, Family: €13. Ferry operators impose separate the finishing off your visit with a picnic or a cream tea. 15 descendants of the Earls of Bantry and has been charge. enjoyed by visitors for over 70 years. OPENING TIMES: Garden open all year round: 10am DIRECTIONS: Use Eircode/Postcode P75 X567 with Highlights include classical statues, urns, balustrades, 6pm. Café open: April to October 11am - 5pm. Google Maps. Travel from Glengarriff village via the wisteria circle and fountain, parterre, terraces ENTRANCE FEE: Adult €7. Child €2. Family €20 (2 delightful ten-minute boat trip across the bay: linked by 100 steps, circular beds, topiary, sunken adults and all accompanying children under 18 plus 2 Harbour Queen Ferry (027 63116, www.harbourgarden and woodland walks. leaflets). €1 Leaflet. queenferry.com); Blue Pool Ferry (027 63333, www. OPENING TIMES 10am - 5pm for the house, garden DIRECTIONS: Use Eircode/ Postcode V93 D792 with bluepoolferry.ie); Ellen’s Rock Boat Service (027 open until 6pm. 17th April to end of October Tuesday Google Maps. DAWROS GALLERY 63110). Last ferry landing one hour before closing. CONTACT: James Bigham, Lauragh, Kenmare, to Sunday and bank holiday Mondays for April, May, & G ACo. RKerry DEN Average length of visit: 1-2 hours. T H E G A R D E N Tel: O F083 1662160 Email: derreengarden@gmail.com October. Open 7 days per week for June, July, August. CONTACT: Ilnacullin / Garinish Island, Glengariff. R E - I M A G I N AT I Web: O Nderreengarden.com ENTRANCE FEE €5 per adult. Children under 16 free. 25 Email: brycehouse@opw.ie or garinishisland@opw.ie DIRECTIONS Use Eircode/Postcode P75 T293 with Web: garinishisland.ie 22 Google Maps. GPS: 51.63577 -9.47941 DAWROS GALLERY CONTACT Bantry House & Gardens, Seafield, Bantry. & GARDEN Tel. 027 50047 Fax 027 50795 This is a four-acre conTHE GARDEN OF Email: info@bantryhouse.com Web: bantryhouse.com B R E E N Y M O R RE-IMAGINATION temporary garden close to Kenmare on the Wild The story begins with a Atlantic Way, set in native plants-woman who BREENY MOR 19 woodland next to the crafted the garden of her An exceptional 3+ acres Dromoughty River waterfall. Charlotte Verbeek, the \ j dreams and then left. tucked away in the hills artist gardener, has created the garden over 25 years. For seventy years, nature south of Kealkill village. The naturalistic planting blends seamlessly into wild grew a new design. Now, a new chapter celebrating Incorporating 30 years areas with extensive use of grasses and perennials. this past, a present bursting\ withjlife7and the opporof inventive work and 5 =n The garden is included in the The Open Gardens of tunity to re-imagine and share with you a magical constant development. Ireland by Shirley Lanigan and has also featured in the garden for our futures. Numerous well maintained pathways, some obvious, Irish Garden magazine. The Garden of Re-Imagination is a Willy-Wonka others not so, meandering through distinctly different OPENING TIMES April to September by appointment inspired paradise where everything is edible from the areas with a natural sense of calm. Beautifully crafted \ 7 by email. topiary to the trees! The garden is created by the Two ponds, gurgling water features and wetland bordered ENTRANCE FEE: €8 donation to charity. Sorry no dogs Green Shoots’ team, garden designer Kloe Wood Lynby a babbling brook. Majestic, maturing and young Sorry no children. dorff and head gardener for Bantry House & Garden, trees, many plants of interest. Fairy fort laden with DIRECTIONS: Eircode/Postcode: V93 X0Y3. Vehicle Adam Carveth. bluebells, quiet walled courtyards, waterside flagstone access limited to cars and vans due to a narrow bridge. OPENING TIMES: Taste Tours between May - Sept patio, tranquil spaces to sit, eat, drink tea, or just CONTACT Charlotte Verbeek 2019. Events and open days throughout the year. Visit contemplate. Tel.: 064 6642145/087 6875461 website for details of what’s on. OPENING TIMES: Spring & Summer Sunday to ThursEmail: charlotteverbeek@me.com ENTRANCE FEE: Taste Tour Tickets: Adults - €25pp day 10am - 6pm. Other times by appointment only. Web:.charlotteverbeek.com (6-10 people), €20pp (10-16 people), Children €15 or ENTRANCE FEE: €5 per adult. Children welcome free. family €55. Other events priced individually. DIRECTIONS: Use Eircode/Postcode P75 F998 with DIRECTIONS: Secret location near Glengarriff, West Google Maps. Cork. Directions on booking. CONTACT: Danny, Breeny Mor, Kealkill, Bantry. (continued >>) Tel: 087 3111795 Email: breenymor@gmail.com 23 S P E C I A L F E AT U R E S Ballycommane boulder-burial site and pair of standing Z[VULZ =PZP[VY JLU[YL MVJ\ZZPUN VU TLNHSP[OPJ TVU\TLU[Z PU >LZ[ *VYR :LSM N\PKPUN [YHPSZ HUK NHYKLU THW ) ) HJJVTTVKH[PVU )V\[PX\L /VSPKH` *V[[HNL 7SHU[Z MVY :HSL 7PJUPJZ HYL ^LSJVTL .LYTHU ZWVRLU ;OL NHYKLU PZ MLH[\YLK PU The Open Gardens of Ireland by Shirley Lanigan

CONTACT Andy and Ingolf, Ballycommane, +\YY\Z *V *VYR ;LS ,THPS! PUMV'IHSS`JVTTHUL JVT ^^^ IHSS`JVTTHUL JVT -HJLIVVR JVT IHSS`JVTTHUL

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E S ;LH *VќLL Shop and art gallery Steep steps & uneven pathways JVTM` MVV[^LHY YLJVTTLUKLK

Ilnacullin, renowned as a unique island garden of rare beauty, is nestled into the sheltered coastal harbour VM .SLUNHYYPќ PU )HU[Y` )H` ;OL NHYKLUZ ^LYL ZL[ V\[ in the Arts and Crafts style in Edwardian times and contain classical formal gardens and architecture set ^P[OPU UH[\YHS 9VIPUZVUPHU Z[`SL Z\YYV\UKPUNZ Visitors can discover a wealth of unique architectural & horticultural gems, including an Italianate garden with formal pond, pavilion, Casita and lawns; walled kitchen garden with herbaceous borders, fruit, roses & JSPTILYZ" 4HY[LSSV [V^LY ^P[O ÄUL WHUVYHTPJ ]PL^Z" HUK the Happy Valley with its Grecian Temple, shrubberies HUK YHYL [YLLZ )Y`JL /V\ZL H ZOVY[ ^HSR MYVT [OL ^HSSLK NHYKLU PZ H Ä[[PUN TLTVYPHS [V [OL ]PZPVUHY` JYLH[VYZ HUK J\Z[VKPHUZ VM [OPZ \UPX\L WSHJL )\PS[ J PU HU ,K^HYKPHU WPJ[\YLZX\L Z[`SL )Y`JL /V\ZL became the residence of Violet, her son Roland, their housekeeper Margaret O’Sullivan and head gardener 4\YKV 4HJ2LUaPL S P E C I A L F E AT U R E S

0U[LYUH[PVUHSS` ZPNUPÄJHU[ JVSSLJ[PVU VM YHYL ILH\[PM\S ZV\[OLYU OLTPZWOLYL WSHU[Z -VYTHS NHYKLUZ Happy Valley with temple, shrubberies & rare trees Walled garden with herbaceous borders, fruit, roses JSPTILYZ 4HY[LSSV [V^LY ^P[O ÄUL WHUVYHTPJ ]PL^Z )Y`JL /V\ZL N\PKLK [V\YZ

OPENING TIMES Daily 1st April to 3rd November (WYPS 4H` 1\UL! H T W T 1\S` (\N\Z[! H T W T :LW[LTILY! H T W T Z[ 6J[ YK 5V]! H T W T ENTRANCE FEE (K\S[! Á .YV\W :LUPVY! Á :[\KLU[! Á -HTPS`! Á -LYY` VWLYH[VYZ PTWVZL ZLWHYH[L JOHYNL

DIRECTIONS Use Eircode/Postcode 7 ? ^P[O .VVNSL 4HWZ ;YH]LS MYVT .SLUNHYYPќ =PSSHNL ]PH KLSPNO[M\S ten-minute boat trip across the bay: /HYIV\Y 8\LLU -LYY` ^^^ OHYIV\YX\LLUMLYY` JVT " )S\L 7VVS -LYY` ^^^ IS\LWVVSMLYY` PL " ,SSLU»Z 9VJR )VH[ :LY]PJL 3HZ[ MLYY` SHUKPUN OV\Y ILMVYL JSVZPUN (]LYHNL SLUN[O VM ]PZP[! OV\YZ CONTACT 0SUHJ\SSPU .HYPUPZO 0ZSHUK .SLUNHYPќ *V *VYR ,THPS! IY`JLOV\ZL'VW^ PL NHYPUPZOPZSHUK'VW^ PL ^^^ NHYPUPZOPZSHUK PL

OPENING TIMES Garden open all year round: H T W T Café open: April to October H T W T

ENTRANCE FEE (K\S[ Á *OPSK Á Family €20 (2 adults and all accompanying children under 18 plus SLHÅL[Z Á 3LHÅL[

OPENING TIMES H T W T MVY [OL OV\ZL NHYKLU VWLU \U[PS W T 17th April to end of October Tuesday to Sunday and bank holiday Mondays for April, May, October 6WLU KH`Z WLY ^LLR MVY 1\UL 1\S` (\N\Z[

Highlights include classical statues, urns, ballustrades, the wisteria circle and fountain, parterre, terraces linked by 100 steps, circular beds, topiary, sunken garden and ^VVKSHUK ^HSRZ S P E C I A L F E AT U R E S

DIRECTIONS Use Eircode/Postcode P75 T293 ^P[O .VVNSL 4HWZ .7:! On the N71 on west side of Bantry town centre

Partial disabled access to house and garden

CONTACT Bantry House & Garden, :LHÄLSK )HU[Y` *V *VYR ;LS -H_ ,THPS! PUMV'IHU[Y`OV\ZL JVT ^^^ IHU[Y`OV\ZL JVT

DIRECTIONS Use Eircode/ Postcode V93 D792 with Google 4HWZ +LYYLLU .HYKLU PZ ZP[\H[LK H[ the foot of the Healy Pass in Lauragh on the Beara Peninsula close to the Kerry and Cork border in an area VM \UYP]HSSLK UH[\YHS ILH\[` 0[ PZ 24km west of Kenmare on the R571 and within easy driving distance of .SLUNHYYPќ HUK *HZ[SL[V^UILYL

Bantry House and Garden is on the fringe of )HU[Y` ;V^U JVTTHUKPUN THNUPÄJLU[ ]PL^Z V]LY [OL IH` 0[ PZ SP]LK PU I` [OL KLZJLUKHU[Z VM [OL ,HYSZ VM )HU[Y` HUK OHZ ILLU LUQV`LK I` ]PZP[VYZ MVY V]LY `LHYZ

ENTRANCE FEE Á WLY HK\S[ *OPSKYLU \UKLY MYLL

CONTACT :OLLUH >VVK HUK 2\Y[ 3`UKVYќ The Ewe Experience, N71 2LUTHYL 9VHK .SLUNHYYPќ *V *VYR ;LS ,THPS! PUMV'[OLL^L JVT ^^^ [OLL^L JVT

CONTACT James Bigham, 3H\YHNO 2LUTHYL *V 2LYY` 4VIPSL ,THPS! KLYYLLUNHYKLU'NTHPS JVT ^^^ KLYYLLUNHYKLU JVT

+LYYLLU .HYKLU JV]LYZ TVYL [OHU HJYLZ VM garden and has over 12 km of paths which wind through mature and varied woodland full of rare and L_V[PJ WSHU[Z ;OL NHYKLU PZ HSZV H OH]LU MVY ^PSKSPML and a habitat for Sika deer, Irish hares and red ZX\PYYLS :LHSZ JHU VM[LU IL ZLLU MYVT [OL ZOVYL HUK there have been sightings of otters and Kerry’s rarest THTTHS [OL WPUL THY[LU )` [OL ZOVYL [OLYL PZ HU abundance of bird life, including cormorants, oyster catchers, gulls, great northern divers, guillemots, and ZLH LHNSLZ There are a number of walks around the garden taking 30 minutes to an hour, although it is easy to get drawn into exploring and many visitors will ZWLUK H ML^ OV\YZ ILMVYL ÄUPZOPUN Vќ [OLPY ]PZP[ ^P[O a picnic, cream tea or a trip to the nearby pub at KilmakillogL S P E C I A L F E AT U R E S

;LH *VќLL

Café serving lunch and a wide variety of home- baked cakes to refresh yourself before or after a garden walk Gift Shop

Plant Sales

;LHYVT ZLY]PUN [LH JVќLL cakes and light lunches

Dogs on lead welcome in the garden, guide dogs welcome in the house and garden Coach parking

B&B Accommodation

CONTACT Ronnie Halligan, Kilravock Garden, +\YY\Z *V *VYR ;LS ,THPS! NHYKLU RPSYH]VJR'NTHPS JVT ^^^ RPSYH]VJR NHYKLU

CARRAIG ABHAINN Carraig Abhainn is a 30year labour of love for life time gardeners Eugene & Hazel Wiseman. A threeacre garden in the heart of Durrus, yet an oasis of \ peace and serenity. Enhanced by the woodland setting and surrounding mill stream, river and spectacular waterfall, the many tender and rare plants thrive in this mild, sheltered climate, providing continuous interest from March through to October. (continued >>) DIRECTIONS Use Eircode/Postcode 7 ; ^P[O .VVNSL 4HWZ Entrance is to the left of Wiseman’s ZOVW PU +\YY\Z ]PSSHNL JLU[YL

Spread out in a tranquil valley surrounded by green rolling hills, Ballycommane Garden (4 acres) features a huge variety of more than 1000 native and exotic ZOY\IZ HUK [YLLZ 4HU` WSHU[Z MYVT HSS V]LY [OL ^VYSK can be discovered, including subtropical species like tea [YLLZ [YLL MLYUZ HUK T`Y[SLZ [OYP]PUN PU [OL TPSK JSPTH[L Specialist collections include rare plants from the ZV\[OLYU OLTPZWOLYL .VUK^HUH ÅVYH HUK [OL (aVYLZ Secluded garden rooms, a pond and a greenhouse provide ever-changing vistas while following the paths TLHUKLYPUN [OYV\NO S\ZO NYLLULY` >L PU]P[L `V\ [V L_WSVYL H[ `V\Y SLHZ\YL VY [V Q\Z[ ZP[ KV^U HUK YLSH_ At the highest point in the garden, there is an ancient TVU\TLU[ N\HYKLK I` [V^LYPUN 4VU[LYL` WPULZ 0[ comprises the Ballycommane boulder-burial site and a WHPY VM Z[HUKPUN Z[VULZ -YVT [OPZ THNPJHS WSHJL [OLYL PZ H WHUVYHTPJ ]PL^ V]LY [OL Z\YYV\UKPUN SHUKZJHWL

OPENING TIMES H T W T +HPS` HSS `LHY

This is a unique setting (13 acres) on one of [OL TVZ[ ILH\[PM\S IH`Z PU 0YLSHUK 0[ JYLH[LZ the illusion that it is a lake but in fact it is the VJLHU )HTIVVZ WHSTZ [YLL MLYUZ L[J what else could you ask for in the southern part of Ireland? It lacks the excessive heat of [OL 4LKP[LYYHULHU I\[ SVVRZ SPRL `V\»YL PU P[ :VTL ]PZP[VYZ HYL [LSSPUN \Z ºP[»Z OLH]LU» ;OL atmosphere is peaceful and quiet, with a friendly ^LSJVTL VU HYYP]HS

CONTACT: Kloe Wood Lyndorff and Adam Carveth. Tel: 089 7081099 Email: info@twogreenshoots.com Web: twogreenshoots.com Facebook.com/twogreenshoots Twitter.com/twogreenshoots T H E E W E EXPERIENCE

DIRECTIONS Use Eircode/Postcode 7 *- ^P[O .VVNSL 4HWZ 1\Z[ V]LY RT ^LZ[ VM [OL ]PSSHNL VM Durrus on the main road to Ahakista on the Sheep’s Head peninsula directly I` [OL ZLH ;OLYL PZ H IS\L HUK ^OP[L V]HS ZPNU H[ [OL LU[YHUJL @V\ JHU WHYR on the grass opposite

ENTRANCE FEE Á WLY HK\S[

BALLYCOMMANE HOUSE & GARDEN Spread out in a tranquil valley surrounded by green rolling hills, Ballycommane Garden (4 acres) features a huge variety of more than \ j 7 1,000 native and exotic shrubs and trees. Many plants = n from all over the world can be discovered, including subtropical species and rare plants from the southern hemisphere (Gondwana flora) and the Azores. Secluded garden rooms, a pond and a greenhouse provide ever-changing vistas while following the paths through lush greenery. At the highest point in the garden, there is an ancient monument guarded by towering Monterey pines. It comprises the Ballycommane boulder-burial site and a pair of standing stones. OPENING TIMES: Daily 9.30am - 6pm from 15th March to 31st October ENTRANCE FEE: €5 per adult DIRECTIONS: Use Eircode/Postcode P75 A020 with Google Maps. CONTACT: Andy and Ingolf, Ballycommane, Durrus. Tel: 027 62799 Email: info@ballycommane.com Web: ballycommane.com Facebook.com/ballycommane B A N T R Y H O U S E

BAMBOO PARK This is a unique setting (13 acres) on one of the most beautiful bays in Ireland. It creates the illusion that it is a lake but in fact it is the ocean. Bamboos, palms, tree ferns etc. It lacks the excessive heat of the Medi7you’re in it. The atmosphere is terranean but \ looksjlike peaceful and quiet, with a friendly welcome on arrival. OPENING TIMES: 9am - 7pm daily all year. ENTRANCE FEE: Adults €7, Seniors €6, Students €4. Special group price for minimum of 10 people. Children free. Season tickets available. DIRECTIONS: Use Eircode/Postcode P75 AF84 with Google Maps. CONTACT: Claudine de Thibault, Bamboo Park, Glengarriff, Tel. 027 63007/027 63975/086 0628518 Email: bambooparkltd@eircom.net ILNACULLIN / Web: bamboo-park.com GARINISH ISLAND Facebook.com/bambooparkireland

OPENING TIMES =PL^PUN PZ Z[YPJ[S` I` HWWVPU[TLU[ VUS` 7SLHZL YPUN

ABHAINN

OPENING TIMES 4VUKH` [V :H[\YKH` H T W T MYVT Z[ 4HYJO [V Z[ 6J[VILY :\UKH`Z I` HWWVPU[TLU[

OPENING TIMES: Monday to Saturday 9.30am - 7pm from 1st March to 31st October. Sundays by appointment. ENTRANCE FEE: €8 per adult DIRECTIONS: Use Eircode/Postcode T923 B A L LY CP75 OM M with ANE Google Maps. HOUSE & GARDEN CONTACT: Eugene & Hazel Wiseman, Durrus, Tel: 087 6392477 Email: carraigabhainndurrus@yahoo.com 17 Facebook.com/carraigabhainngardens

“A slice of paradise”; – Q\Z[ ZVTL VM [OL JVTTLU[Z MYVT SHZ[ `LHY»Z ]PZP[VY»Z IVVR

Carraig Abhainn is a 30-year labour of love for life [PTL NHYKLULYZ ,\NLUL /HaLS >PZLTHU ( [OYLL acre garden in the heart of Durrus, yet an oasis of WLHJL HUK ZLYLUP[` ,UOHUJLK I` [OL ^VVKSHUK setting and surrounding mill stream, river and spectacular waterfall, the many tender and rare plants thrive in this mild, sheltered climate, providing continuous interest from March through [V 6J[VILY S P E C I A L F E AT U R E S 5 locally made bridges

Spectacular gunnera plants

Unique sculptures and statues throughout

Self-guiding walk-ways including a camelia walk ^P[O V]LY JHTLSPHZ A charming portico with landscape painting by local artist

Several benches allowing you to relax with only the sounds of the river to distract!

OPENING TIMES Taste Tours between May - Sept ,]LU[Z VWLU KH`Z [OYV\NOV\[ [OL `LHY =PZP[ V\Y ^LIZP[L MVY KL[HPSZ VM ^OH[»Z VU

An exceptional 3+ acres tucked away in the hills ZV\[O VM 2LHSRPSS ]PSSHNL 0UJVYWVYH[PUN `LHYZ VM PU]LU[P]L ^VYR HUK JVUZ[HU[ KL]LSVWTLU[ Numerous well maintained pathways, some obvious, others not so meandering through KPZ[PUJ[S` KPќLYLU[ HYLHZ ^P[O H UH[\YHS ZLUZL VM JHST )LH\[PM\SS` JYHM[LK WVUKZ N\YNSPUN ^H[LY features and wetland bordered by a babbling IYVVR (I\UKHU[ ^P[O ZRPSSM\SS` JVUZ[Y\J[LK Z[VUL ^HSSZ 4HQLZ[PJ TH[\YPUN HUK `V\UN [YLLZ THU` WSHU[Z VM PU[LYLZ[ -HPY` MVY[ SHKLU ^P[O bluebells, quiet walled courtyards, waterside ÅHNZ[VUL WH[PV [YHUX\PS ZWHJLZ [V ZP[ LH[ KYPUR [LH VY Q\Z[ JVU[LTWSH[L S P E C I A L F E AT U R E S Ancient Ring Fort Stones

/VTL 7YVK\JL Z\IQLJ[ [V H]HPSHIPSP[` ;LH L[J

Limited Parking (sensibly please)

OPENING TIMES Spring & Summer :\UKH` [V ;O\YZKH` H T W T 6[OLY [PTLZ I` HWWVPU[TLU[ VUS`

ENTRANCE FEE Á WLY HK\S[ *OPSKYLU ^LSJVTL MYLL

DIRECTIONS Use Eircode/Postcode P75 F998 ^P[O .VVNSL 4HWZ -YVT 2LHSRPSS \W OPSS PU MYVU[ VM [OL º)YV^U 7\I» VWWVZP[L *VSSPUZ )HY (M[LY HWWYV_ RT [HRL SLM[ MVYR *VU[PU\L HUK [HRL YK RT HWWYV_ LU[YHUJL VU SLM[ PU[V \UWH]LK [YHJR (M[LY T [HRL YPNO[ MVYR From Bantry on N72 take right turn 100m IL`VUK )HU[Y` .VSM *S\I (M[LY HWWYV_ RT WHZZ ZPNU MVY º22 )VHYKPUN 2LUULSZ» Next right into small road, straight across UL_[ YVHK PU[V \UWH]LK [YHJR CONTACT Danny, Breeny Mor, Kealkill, Bantry, *V *VYR Mobile 087 3111795 ,THPS! IYLLU`TVY'NTHPS JVT

ENTRANCE FEE Taste Tour Tickets: (K\S[Z Á WW WLVWSL Á WW WLVWSL *OPSKYLU Á VY -HTPS` Á 6[OLY L]LU[Z WYPJLK PUKP]PK\HSS`

DIRECTIONS :LJYL[ SVJH[PVU ULHY .SLUNHYYPќ >LZ[ *VYR +PYLJ[PVUZ VU IVVRPUN CONTACT 2SVL >VVK 3`UKVYќ and Adam Carveth Mobile 089 7081099 ,THPS! PUMV'[^VNYLLUZOVV[Z JVT ^^^ [^VNYLLUZOVV[Z JVT -HJLIVVR JVT [^VNYLLUZOVV[Z ;^P[[LY JVT [^VNYLLUZOVV[Z

The story begins with a plants-woman who crafted the garden VM OLY KYLHTZ HUK [OLU SLM[ -VY ZL]LU[` `LHYZ UH[\YL NYL^ H UL^ KLZPNU 5V^ H UL^ JOHW[LY JLSLIYH[PUN [OPZ WHZ[ H present bursting with life and the opportunity to re-imagine and share with you a magical garden for our futures… The Garden of Re-Imagination, is a Willy-Wonka inspired paradise where everything is edible from the topiary to the trees! Taste rare edible delights from the Pink Flamingo [YLL :HS[I\ZO HUK +HOSPH ÅV^LYZ [OH[ OPKL KLSPJPV\Z [\ILYZ Discover their incredible stories and how to grow a garden that tastes as good as it looks!

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2-hour Taste Tours available by appointment for groups VM -LHZ[ 5PNO[Z ,ZJHWLZ ,]LU[Z `LHY YV\UK Stay in the Botanical B&F (Bed & Feast) or Bell Tent nestled inside the gardens Rare plants on sale

Notes for visitors: - As we eat the garden we aren’t able to welcome dogs - Garden includes bridges & steps so no disabled access

A four acre contemporary garden close to Kenmare VU [OL >PSK ([SHU[PJ >H` :L[ PU UH[P]L ^VVKSHUK UL_[ [V [OL +YVTV\NO[` 9P]LY ^H[LYMHSS *OHYSV[[L Verbeek, the artist gardener, has created the garden V]LY `LHYZ ;OL UH[\YHSPZ[PJ WSHU[PUN ISLUKZ seamlessly into wild areas with extensive use of NYHZZLZ HUK WLYLUUPHSZ The garden is included in the The Open Gardens of Ireland by Shirley Lanigan and has also featured in [OL 0YPZO .HYKLU THNHaPUL S P E C I A L F E AT U R E S

.HSSLY` L_OPIP[PUN WHPU[PUNZ HUK QL^LSSLY` MVY ZHSL I` [OL HY[PZ[ Garden sculptures

OPENING TIMES April to September by appointment I` LTHPS ENTRANCE FEE Á KVUH[PVU [V JOHYP[` Sorry no dogs :VYY` UV JOPSKYLU

DIRECTIONS Eircode/Postcode: V93 X0Y3 Directions will be provided with appointment Vehicle access limited to cars and vans due to a narrow bridge CONTACT Charlotte Verbeek ;LS ! 4VIPSL ,THPS! JOHYSV[[L]LYILLR'TL JVT ^^^ JOHYSV[[L]LYILLR JVT

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Michael Collins House,

MICHAEL COLLINS

a new museum dedicated to Michael Collins and the history of Irish independence, suitable for all the family.

HOUSE CLOICH NA COILLTE No. 7 EMMET SQUARE, CLONAKILTY, CO. CORK, IRELAND.

Interactive and audio visual displays suitable for all ages and level of knowledge.

Admission Prices

Opening Times

Adult €5 Senior Citizens/Students €3 Children (U14) €2 Family €12

Summer Opening Times (May to September) Tues - Sat: 10am to 5pm Sunday: 12pm to 5pm (last admission 4pm)

Contact Details Tel: 023 8858676

Winter Opening Times Wed - Sat: 10am to 5pm (October to April)

www.michaelcollinshouse.ie 24

Great attractions across West Cork 1. Skibbereen Heritage Centre

6. Michael Collins & Irish freedom

Located in the beautifully restored Gasworks building, the Skibbereen Heritage Centre houses the Great Famine Commemoration Exhibition as well as The Lough Hyne Visitor Centre where you can admire the salt-water aquarium depicting life in Lough Hyne while you watch an informative film of the reserve.

Michael Collins House Museum in Clonakilty is located in a restored Georgian building at No.7 Emmet Square. It tells the story of Ireland’s struggle for independence focusing on Tadgh an Asna, O’Donovan Rossa and of course, Michael Collins. As well as a number of displays there is an audio-visual room and a gift shop. www.michaelcollinshouse.ie. Another wonderful historical attraction is the Michael Collins Centre, located just off the Timoleague Road, where visitors can experience live illustrated presentations three times daily, audiovisuals and a fine collection of Collins memorabilia. The centre is situated in Michael Collins Memorial Park, which overlooks the magnificent Argideen Valley. The park contains a number of memorials dedicated to Collins and the fight for Irish freedom. www.michaelcollinscentre.com. Collins’ birthplace at Woodfield, also near Clonakilty, is another important historical site.

2. Mizen Visitor Centre, Mizen Head

Situated at the end of the Mizen Peninsula, the visitor centre is a fantastic place to visit. The recently refurbished bridge across the massive crevice in the rock is not for the faint-hearted, but a stunning place to take photographs, or simply listen to the waves crashing below. The keeper’s kitchen and bedroom at the signal station at the end of the walk has been preserved as it was, as a tribute to the lifestyle of the men of the Irish Lights. There are many fascinating displays to be seen, both here at the signal station and back at the interactive visitor centre at the start.

7. Bantry House & Gardens, Bantry

Bantry House is the ancestral home of the Earls of Bantry and is still owned and run by direct descendants of the Earls. The house and gardens command stunning views over the bay and the gardens which include lawn tennis courts, mazes and the famous climb of 103 steps, are stunning to explore. Tours of the house are given and there is a café on site.

3. Model Railway Village, Clonakilty

Get an overview of the area in miniature, by visiting the Model Railway Village where the towns of West Cork are beautifully captured on a scale of 1:24. The working replica of the West Cork Railway is delightful as it chugs along through towns and countryside. There is also an informative Exhibition Centre, indoor play room and cafe facility on-site. The miniature villages, with their working toy trains, were recently restored, repainted and rebuilt. The real-size Choo-Choo road train that goes into town is a great way to explore Clonakilty. www.modelvillage.ie

8. West Cork’s Islands

Bere, Cape Clear, Sherkin, Dursey, Garnish, Whiddy, Heir and Long are the top inhabited islands in West Cork, all with their own unique attractions and appeal. Why not learn about the heritage and history of these magical places, enjoy wonderful local food, take a walking or bus tour with a local guide or experience a thrilling ride in a high speed boat and see the beauty and nature of the sea. Then, depending on which island you visit, settle down in a friendly pub, enjoy a drink and get to know the locals (most of the islands listed are inhabited). Visit www.westcorkislands.com

4. Charles Fort, Kinsale

Charles Fort is open all year to visitors and is one of the best surviving examples of a 17th Century star-shaped fort. Much of its original 1678 construction remains. The fort was actively used by the military until 1922. It is also a popular civil weddings venue now, too.

9. Uillinn – West Cork Arts Centre

The Uillinn West Cork Arts Centre is located right in the centre of Skibbereen and the imposing corten steel structure can be seen from most angles in the town. There are exhibitions on throughout the summer featuring works by local, national and international artists. There is a coffee shop on the ground floor which is a popular spot with both locals and visitors alike.

5. Rosscarbery adventures

Rosscarbery is fast becoming the action-packed family centre of West Cork. Head to Smugglers Cove to play the pirate-themed adventure golf or try your hand at the Smuggler’s Maze. During July and August try out Ireland’s largest Maize Maze. Hit a few golf balls in the driving range or relax on the panoramic sundeck overlooking Rosscarbery. egareva na tA d e p t h o f 3 ts aL eht ,teef lddap pu dnaa ep eht si noog draob eMake r ot ecalp tcefr sel eht rof dna staob trip to the Lagoon Activity Centre to enjoy pedal boats o a n d o v f e f n e t r ro kayak a tne u t r o o o u . lp era ereht s elddep fo ytne y fI o u ing, stand-up surf boards and canoeing. New at the centre a r e l o o k i gn eht rof llirht etamitlu mus siht is the Floating Aqua Park. With slides, trampolines, 2019 kam rem efor s u a er rof ni koob dn seW iceberg, air pillow and loads of other obstacles for tsetal s’kroC t dna climbing l s'dnalerI gnitaofl tsegra rapretaw k . youILto navigate you will be ready for some pizza, ice cream ,SED S HTIW PMART ,SENILO and other treats on the lakeside afterwards. ,SELCATSBO EKNOM SRAB Y For the young and the old, Rosscarbery has everyone covered A N D M U C H ,EROM era uoy rusfun, law ot ea kfor family action-packed day out. yawa emoc ot regae b !erom rof kca www.smugglerscove.ie www.lagoonactivitycentre.ie W h e n a l l ruoy ra seitivitca

10. Experience the gardens of West Cork

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ARDEN LOUS G 5 FA B U VISIT 2 AND’S

I N I R E LPA R A D I S E GARDEN

The West Cork Garden Trail brings together and showcases some of the area’s finest gardens in locations of breathtaking beauty. West Cork is Ireland’s garden paradise and the best of Pure Cork. For more see www.westcorkgardentrail.com, page 23 of this guide (for details of gardens in the Bantry area), or pick up a brochure locally featuring all 25 gardens. One way or another, the advice is to get out and visit them this summer. You will enjoy the horticultural excellence, artistic diversity, as well as fine fare and refreshments (where provided). You can pay admission at each garden or choose one of the online ticketing options. For more email: info@westcorkgardentrail.com.

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Dunmanway To Cork City

7 Bantry Drimoleague

Clonakilty

Bere

Rosscarbery Skibbereen

Kinsale

1 9

2 Mizen

Sherkin, Cape Clear Heir & Long Island

8 25

What’s On ....

Every Friday is market day at Wolfe Tone Square in Bantry and it’s always worth a visit. There, you can rummage for bargains, buy a burger, or take home your fresh fruit and veg for the week. It’s got it all! Other ongoing events are the weekly parkruns in Glengarriff and Bere Island on Saturday mornings.

JUNE

June 14th to 16th The Maritime Hotel Summer Classic takes place at Bantry Bay Golf Club with an array of wonderful prizes. To enter, call 027-50579 or email info@bantrygolf.com June 20th to 23rd The Jim Dowling Uilleann Pipe and Trad Festival: Glengarriff welcomes musicians and music lovers alike for concerts, sessions, workshops, exhibitions and lectures, as well as the Piping for a Pint session trail throughout the village over the weekend . The 8th festival will commence on Thursday night, June 20th, with Connla in concert. Troda will be on stage on the Friday night and then on Saturday it will be the turn of the Vallely Brothers, Tom Oakes, Ross Couper & Lorne MacDougal. June 23rd Kupala Multicultural Festival: This day-long family-orientated Kupala Festival celebrates midsummer and the diversity of cultures one can find in Bantry and the surrounding areas. In its third year, the Kupala Festival features local dancers and drummers to communities from Eastern Europe and as far afield as India and Mexico. A full list of events can be found on the Facebook page: Bantry Kupala Festival. June 21st to 29th The Maureen O’Hara Blair Memorial Classic Festival of Golf 2018: The festival, which was the brainchild of the late Hollywood legend herself, was first launched in 1984 and is Ireland’s longest-running golf classic, this being its 36th staging. The 2019 competitions are being held from June 21st to 29th, continue to enjoy the support of local and national businesses who are proud to be associated with this event, which also benefits Bantry Hospice Project. www.glengarriffgolfclub.com June 22nd to 25th Travara Regatta Festival, Beara: This year’s festival includes events such as the Joe Gort O’Sullivan Clay Pigeon Shoot and the Jim Downing Boat Fishing Competition. June 27th Bantry Comhaltas, in association with Bantry Business Association, Bantry Tourism & Development and Cork County Council will be staging a free music session outside Quill’s, New Street from 11am to 12.30pm June 28th to July 7th West Cork Chamber Music Festival, Bantry: Now in its 24th year, the festival has become one of the leading chamber music events in Europe. String players dominate with four international quartets and six student quartets with star soloists like Viviane Hagner, Johannes Moser, Henning Kraggerud, Marc Danel and Emmanuelle Bertrand with rising stars Mairéad Hickey, Ellen Nisbeth and BBC Young Musician winner Laura van der Heijden. Pianists include Dénes Várjon, Barry Douglas, Gloria Campaner, Alexei Grynyuk, Finghin Collins, Pascal Amoyel

and Izabella Simon. The popular West Cork Chamber Music Festival Fringe returns, featuring free afternoon performances and workshops in Bantry Town, Durrus, Garinish, Castletownbere, Skibbereen and Cork Airport.

JULY

July 5th to 7th Allihies Inspires Creative Festival will feature a host of writers and artists, including Leanne O’Sullivan, Claire Zwaartman, Paula Meehan, Theo Dorgan and Conal Creedon; readings, workshops, art exhibitions, a bumper craft market, guided walks and children’s events. July 6th Following the success of the inaugural Beara Film Fest last year, the organisers have received a large and exciting set of submissions for the 2019 festival to entertain film buffs at this one-day event. July 13th Wild Atlantic Mizen Cycle: Organised by the West Cork Emergency Services and friends in aid of local charities, the event on Saturday 13th will take in three spectacular routes, a 65k, a 100k and a 130k, all starting and finishing in Bantry. July 12th to 19th West Cork Literary Festival, Bantry: The usual array of high-profile writers will be in Bantry again this year, including Graham Norton, Mary Robinson, Joseph O’Connor, John Boyne, Sebastian Barry, Sarah Crossan, Kevin Barry, Sarah Moss, Anne Carson and Kit de Waal to mention just a few, an eclectic mix of new discoveries and old favourites, Irish and international writers, novelists, poets, food writers, essayists, historians, short story writers, memoirists, writers for children and young people. The festival introduces many writers who have just published their first novel or collection and also encourages emerging writers through writing workshops, professional learning seminars and the opportunity to participate in open mic sessions. So, whether you are a reader or a writer, there should be plenty in the festival to engage and inspire people. July 12th to 14th Eyeries Motor Home Gathering Weekend at the local motor home park, including barbecues, ceili and fit dancing classes for all the happy campers. July 19th to 21st The Eyeries Festival, Eyeries: This festival regularly attracts internationally-renowned artistes and also fosters local unique talents against a backdrop which showcases the picturesque village and surrounding areas. It will come alive with music, market stalls, family activities, art and much more. July 19th to August 31st The Window of Eyeries Art Trail: This art exhibition in the village of Eyeries at Evie’s Hall showcases the rich talent of local artists, and continues to draw visitors in their thousands to the county’s most colourful village.

AUGUST

August 2nd to 11th Bantry Art Exhibition: This annual event showcases the very best of work by local artists. The annual exhibition

There is no shortage of great things to do in Bantry and the surrounding areas over the coming months. Here they are at a glance!

is held every summer at St Brendan’s National School, Wolfe Tone Square. www.visitbantry.ie. August 2nd to 5th Adrigole GAA Festival and Duck Race at Adrigole GAA grounds. August 3rd to 5th Bantry BBQ Festival: This three-day family festival will feature barbecues outside the local bars free of charge with music in the afternoon and evenings, and there will be bouncy castles available for children. August 2nd to 9th Castletownbere Festival of the Sea: Held over the August bank holiday weekend and the week that follows, the Festival of the Sea is a family-orientated fun-filled week with the community coming together to showcase what the town has to offer. Monday is regatta day, organised by Castletownbere Rowing Club. www.castletownbere.ie. August 6th to 11th Bere Island Festival promises fun for all the family. The packed programme is full of events from heritage talks, regatta fun and biathlons to puppet shows and much more. August 7th to 10th Garnish Family Festival will be have its 37th staging at the Lehanmore Community Centre with all the usual attractions, including darts, horseshoe pitching, cocktail night, treasure hunt, LipSync battle, poker boat trips around Dursey Island a mini-triathlon and a race night. August 15th Allihies Family Festival culminates with the traditional family sports and horse racing event on the 15th, which was a Holy Day. August 17th to 25th The Ellen Hutchins Festival: The festival in memory of Ireland’s first female botanist will take place around Bantry, as part of National Heritage Week, with walks, talks, workshops, boat trips, and other events linked to botany, botanical art, landscape and letter writing. The ever-popular Whiddy Island seaweed event with Susan Steele will take place on Sunday 18th and Wild Atlantic Seaweed baths will be available at Ballylickey / Snave. Clare Heardman, Conservation Ranger for Beara, National Parks and Wildlife Service, will lead a walk on Whiddy Island. Wednesday 21st is ‘Wild Child Day’ and Bantry House Gardens are open for free that day. www.ellenhutchins.com August 21st to 25th The Masters of Tradition, Bantry: Now in its 17th year, the festival celebrates traditional music in its purest form. Artistic director Martin Hayes, the renowned fiddler from County Clare, will once again open and close this year’s Masters of Tradition. Musicians featured include Dennis Cahill, Philip King, Steve Cooney, Dermot Byrne, Lisa O’Neill, Scullion and many more. Performances take place in Bantry House, one of Ireland’s finest historical mansions, and in some of the area’s other special venues such as St Brendan’s Church, Future Forests and Whiddy Island.

August 24th Bantry Comhaltas, in association with Bantry Business Association, Bantry Tourism & Development and Cork County Council, will be staging a free music session outside Quill’s, New Street from 11am to 12.30pm. August 31st Bantry Bay Adventure Race will begin with a 5k run on Whiddy Island. Participants will then kayak a 1.5km route across Bantry Bay towards the Abbey Pier where they’ll jump on their bikes for the final leg of the race, cycling a 22.8km stretch of the Sheep’s Head peninsula on the Goat’s Path and back to Bantry.

SEPTEMBER

September 1st Bantry Agricultural Show: The show is one of the last to be held in the season, but it has what other shows don’t have – a magnificent setting at the Airstrip in Bantry. Take one of the free buses, or a ferry ride, but don’t miss all that this show has to offer. www.bantryshow.com. September 6th to 8th Chief O’Neill Traditional Music Festival: Tralibane native Captain Francis O’Neill, who was chief of the Chicago police in the late 19th century, is the central figure in this annual festival, which celebrates the best in traditional music – the kind that might have been lost if it were not for his legacy. Check out www.chiefoneillfestivalbantry.com to see the workshops featured in this year’s programme and for details of the gala concert in St Brendan’s Church on the 6th. September 6th to 15th A Taste of West Cork: This festival celebrates, not only West Cork’s unique food culture, but also the people and the land and sea that produce that food across 41 local towns, villages and eight islands, including the Beara and other peninsulas. A number of A Taste of West Cork events will be held in the greater Bantry area. Check these out on www.atasteofwestcork.com

OCTOBER

October 27th The Westlodge Hotel Fastnet Rally: The October bank holiday weekend would not be the same without the excitement that the car rally brings to the Bantry area. As the last big rally of the year, it attracts a lot of participants who pit their skills against each other during the various stages of the rally on Sunday 27th. www.nationalirishrallychampionship.com. October 31st The Castletownbere Hallowe’en Festival will include children’s pumpkin carving, fun and games, children’s fancy dress disco, haunted church, garden or spooky cinema night and many more events to be announced.

DECEMBER

December 31st The New Year Family Gathering: Bantry Development and Tourism Association does a lot of good work during the year, promoting the town’s festivals, as well as its beautiful natural amenities, but this event does exactly what it says on the tin – it is a community celebration, a family celebration and a great way to round off a busy year. www.visitbantry.ie.

Unwind. Body, Soul, Mind. Bridge St., Bantry origintherapies@hotmail.com Instagram: @origin_therapies Facebook: Origin Therapies

years

085 8344 195

Willie Pa’s

Available locally & nationwide Celebrating 40 years of cheese making www.durruscheese.com

Licensed Restaurant Open Thursday to Sundays 12 to 9pm

Private Parking Colomane Cross, Bantry Tel: 027 50392 Email: williepasbantry@gmail.com

GLENGARRIFF ROAD, BANTRY | 027 50003

www.craftshopbantry.com

Open 10am - 6pm Monday to Saturday

With a Sam Maguire Passport in your hand (available in Dunmanway for only €2) you can spend 2-3 hours discovering Sam’s story in Dunmanway town, stamping your passport as you go. 63 www.visitdunmanway.ie Sam Maguire Passport

Keep yourself up to date with all the happenings in the Bantry area and all over West Cork with the award-winning

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IN SHOPS EVERY THURSDAY www.southernstar.ie 27

val ust

Welcome to Beautiful Bantry We would like to extend a very warm welcome to all visitors to our lovely town of Bantry and our beautiful part of The Wild Atlantic Way. Whether you are here for a quick visit or for a longer stay, we are sure you will find lots of things to see and do while in the area. Bantry is located at the heart of West Cork amidst three majestic peninsulas; The Beara Peninsula, The Sheep’s Head and The Mizen Peninsula. Immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty and spectacular coastal scenery on these peninsulas on scenic drives, walks/hikes, water activities etc. Enjoy interacting with the locals in the myriad of cafés, restaurants, shops and bars here in Bantry – we are always happy to chat! You can browse our weekly Farmer & Craft Market on Wolfe Tone Square held every Friday 10am-2pm - the biggest market is on the first Friday of every month, which was traditionally our ‘Fair Day’. Exciting festivals are held throughout the year in Bantry and our streets are always busy with cultural events, live music, family entertainment and lots more - we have listed all annual events below. You will find all the details of attractions, things to do and places to visit listed within the pages of this fantastic guide by The Southern Star. You will also find additional information at our Bantry Community Tourist Information Office, located in the centre of town on Wolfe Tone Square or on our website www.visitbantry.ie We hope you enjoy your stay with us here in Bantry and we look forward to welcoming you again in the future.

June Bantry Multicultural Festival Kupala West Cork Chamber Music Festival July West Cork Literary Festival Wild Atlantic Mizen Cycle August Bantry BBQ Festival Ellen Hutchins Festival Masters of Tradition Festival

23rd June 28th June - 7th July 12th – 19th July 13th July 3rd – 5th August 17th – 25th August 21st – 26th August

August (cont.) Bantry Adventure Festival September Bantry Agricultural Show Chief O’Neill Trad Music Festival A Taste of West Cork Food Festival October Westlodge Fastnet Rally December New Year Family Gathering

31st August 1st September 6th - 8th September 6th - 15th September 27th – 28th October December 31st

A medley of festivals on the Wild Atlantic Way, further information at Bantry Community Tourist Office | Web: www.visitbantry.ie | Email: bantryevents@gmail.com

AUTHENTIC WOOD-FIRED PIZZA, SEAFOOD, PASTA, STEAK & DAILY SPECIALS. EAT IN OR TAKE-AWAY

A Classic Restaurant serving local produce with a French twist

Tel: 027 55789

Wolfe Tone Square Bantry

Live Music Venue every weekend Traditional Irish Bar serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Live Music Every Night Trad Session on Thursdays

Private Function Room available

The Quay, Bantry T: 027 52501

West Cork’s leading Nightclub 69

www.thebantrybay.ie Tel: 027 55789

Wolfe Tone Square Bantry