50 things to see and do in Bantry 2015

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Bantry’s MiChelin guide restaurant Finalist two years in a row for Ireland’s best seafood restaurant Open 7 days a week 12.30 pm to 3 pm | 5.30 pm to 9.30 pm Early Bird 5.30 pm to 6.30 pm, €22.50 2 course, €27.50 3 course

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Contact: 028-35225/35115 www.mizenhead.ie Open daily from Mid Mar-Oct Weekends Nov-Mid Mar

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• Model Villages • Model Train Displays • • Indoor Soft Play Room • Outdoor Playground • • Weekend Choo Choo Train Tour of Clonakilty • • Old Carriage Tea Room • Interpretative Centre • Free Parking • Wheelchair Access • • Yearly Family Tickets •

OPEN DAILY 11A.M. - 5P.M. Call (023) 8833224 www.modelvillage.ie Email: modelvillage@eircom.net

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Céad míle fáilte!

Hello and welcome to the first edition of ‘50 things to see and do...’ which is designed to help you have a great time in and around Bantry and the surrounding area.

Holidaying here for the first time? Regular visitor? Local? No problem, we’re sure our varied list of things to see and do will provide ideas for all the family to enjoy.

Our guide is written to give you brief suggestions relating to different activities, places and attractions to explore and it’s ideal for keeping in your hotel room, hire car or home.

If you are here on holiday then on behalf of the people of West Cork we extend a warm welcome and hope you have a wonderful stay.

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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 functions and festivals are held – including a thriving farmer’s market every Friday. At the front of the square, overlooking the harbour, is a statue of Saint Brendan the Navigator commemorating his ancient connection with Bantry. Nestled between the two peninsulas of the Sheep’s Head and Beara, Bantry has some wonderful scenery and is surrounded by gentle hills, woods, streams, and has both coastal and cliff walks. There are many heritage walks in and around Bantry and information points are strategically placed around town highlighting them as well as outlining the history and wildlife of the area.

All the best The Southern Star team publishers of ‘50 things to see and do...’.

During the summer we’ll be distributing 25,000 copies via tourist, dining and shopping outlets across West Cork, so feel free to give a copy to family and friends.

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West Cork’s trusted source of news, views and sport 50,000 readers and part of the fabric of West Cork life - Out every Thursday www.southernstar.ie

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RESTAURANT Warm & Friendly Atmosphere!

Floury Hands Main Street, Bantry starcreative star creative027 52590 Open 8am-5pm daily for Breakfast & Lunch .

Home baking

The Square, Bantry, Co.Cork T: 027 51924

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Suppliers of fine wools, needles, patterns, handmade items, gourmet teas and coffees, old time sweets, preserves.

Lessons in crafts, knitting, sewing, crochet etc.

Teas, coffees & homebaking

Flouryhandscafé

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Fore! Fancy a round a golf

You’re spoilt for choice in this area.

Bantry Bay Golf Club is a superb 18 hole championship golf course, and was voted the best in West Cork in “Golf Digest” magazine in 2010. The course is situated in a stunning scenic setting with 14 holes overlooking the bay. The breathtaking sea views to the Islands and the Beara mountains will stay with you for a long time, even if you’re having an off day on the greens!

Another option is Glengarriff Golf Club. It’s nine holes are also in a lovely setting, with scenic views abounding. The Club has a famous Honorary President, local resident Dr Maureen O’Hara-Blair, the famous film star.

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Béicìn Walk

The Béicìn Walk is one of 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 the most scenic way to keep fit.

Whiddy Island

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. There are two lakes, one with its own resident swans and an assortment of birds which makes it a bird-watchers 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 1 by the United States. www.whiddyislandferry.com

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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. www.bantryhouse.com

New Street, Bantry 087 6186274 086 3604166

50 Things to see and do

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This useful map shows you the street layout of Bantry and the location of useful amenities such as the Garda station and Chemists. The numbers indicate the location of the local businesses that are advertising within this guide. On all advertisements you will see a reference number. Simply find the corresponding number on the street map to find the location of a particular advertiser.

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14th-29th West Cork Garden Trail www.westcorkgardentrail. com 20th -22nd Jim Dowling Uilleann Pipe & Trad Festival, Glengarriff, www.jimdowlingfestival.com 21st-22nd Carriganass Midsummer Festival, Kealkil, 27th June – 5th July West Cork Chamber Music Festival, Bantry www.westcorkmusic.ie

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July

6th July – 12th West Cork Literary Festival, Bantry www.westcorkmusic.ie 18th July – 20th Bantry Bay Pirate Festival and Whiddy Island Food Festival

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7th Bantry agricultural Show 5th-14th September Taste of West Cork Food Festival 24th-27th Westlodge Hotel Fastnet Rally

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29th June ......Baltimore 6th July .........Union Hall 13th July .......Sherkin Island 20th July .......Castletownshend

27th July .......Passage West, County Finals 10th august ..Schull 24th august ..Glandore

The Children’s Shop Main Street, Bantry Tel: 027 54323

We have a huge selection of quality, affordable and fashionable children’s clothes. Ranging from newborns up to teen fashion. we are West Cork’s largest stockists of casual clothing, sportswear and swimwear for kids.

50 Things to see and do

OʼKeeffeʼs SuperValu Bantry

1st – 4th BBQ and Country Music Festival, Bantry 1st- 7th ahakista Festival & Regatta 1st – 10th Bantry art exhibition 13th Durrus Fete, www.durrusfete.com 20th – 24th Masters of Tradition, Bantry www.westcorkmusic.ie 29th – 30th Miss Bantry 30th – 31st Windsurfing Weekend

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We stock all the latest brands from some of the top high street fashion designers in Europe.

Our extensive range of ladies fashions caters for women of all ages and sizes. You’ll find the latest trends at affordable prices

Main Street, Bantry

Curtain & Blind Department Tel: 027 54313

We have on display a variety of ready-made and made-to-measure blinds and curtains. Our friendly staff are on hand to offer you expert advice.

086 8208230

50 Things to see and do

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Go Fishing on Lough Bofinne

Lough Bofinne is a stocked lake 3 miles out of Bantry which offers wonderful fishing spots for anglers as the majority of the lake is fringed by roadside and easily accessible. There is a floating pontoon and boats 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

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Knocknaveigh Lookout

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.

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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Captain Francis O’Neill

Captain Francis O’Neill, a native of Tralibane, Bantry, is the man who was responsible for writing down old traditional Irish tunes which had been passed down from generation to generation. By recording them he was able to save a lot of tunes which would have otherwise been lost or forgotten over time. A dedicated committee of volunteers have worked tirelessly to erect a memorial to Chief O’Neill. It is well worth visiting the life size bronze sculpture of Francis playing a flute and to read the plaques on the commemorative wall. Chief O’Neill Traditional Music Festival 14-16 November. www.francisoneill.ie

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Bantry Cinemax

The Bantry Cinemax is a 3 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

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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.

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Horseriding – Take a Ride on the Wild Side

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Kilnaruane Pillar Stone

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.

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. www.irishhorsesociety.com

Relax! See the sights on a horse drawn carriage

Why not take a scenic tour with a difference and see parts of the Bantry area from the back of a horse drawn carriage. A great idea for a treat or if you need to clear your head with some West Cork fresh air. www.horsepowerinireland.com or call 087 9389867

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SUP Bantry – is it as easy as it looks?

Learn to SUP which is short for Stand Up Paddling, a new water activity taking hold in West Cork. SUP is great for all ages from 8 – 80 and requires no previous experience nor stamina or fitness levels. It is a low impact sport and hobby that everyone can enjoy. SUP operates from the Abbey in Bantry. www.sup.ie

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50 Things to see and do

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The Rope Walk

The Rope walk is a loop walk of about 4km. It starts in Bantry town and goes past the pier and out towards the Abbey. It follows the road until it passes the Westlodge Hotel and then it heads back into town to the point in Scart Road known as Custom Gap. Along the way, you will see the sign for the Kilnaruane Pillar Stone.

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The Alpaca Walk on Waterfall Farm

The Alpaca Farm is part of the Drimoleague Heritage Walking Trail and has something for everyone. The Alpacas are captivating and the walk has amazing waterfalls. The farm is free and open all year but if you prefer a full guided farm tour to meet the miniature donkeys and giant-sized rabbits, book by ringing 028-31953 is essential. www.westcorkalpacas.com

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Bantry Water Wheel

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

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Garryvurcha Church and Graveyard

Garryvurcha was built in 1720 after a British Act of Parliament and is one of the oldest buildings in town. A number of the Earls of Bantry are buried here and it attracts considerable interest from visitors. The premises has recently undergone restoration due to the dedication of a team of volunteers and community employment scheme workers.

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Waterfront Bar & restaurant The Square, Bantry Tel: 027 53933

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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. The club offers competitive prices and provides dinghies for the dura24/04/2013 16:17 Page 8 tion of the course. www.bantrybaysailingclub.org

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Bridge Street, Bantry Tel: 027 54327 at B-Men you’ll find one of the biggest selections of young men’s fashion, designer, casual and sportswear in west Cork. we also stock an extensive range of denims and men’s accessories and essentials.

Bantry Tel: 027 51247

GUARANTEED TO LOSE 1-5 INCHES IN ONE TREATMENT

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To book driving lessons, motorbike training, or days out, contact:

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Bantry Driving Academy Tel: 027 56464 info@bantrydrivingacademy.ie http://bantrydrivingacademy.ie

We cater for age 11upwards and provide 12eDt lessons for €400 Practice track | Driving SimulatorS | comPuter Zone maintenance centre | Summer camPS

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Tel: 027 50531 Open: Monday-Saturday 8.30 am - 6.30 pm

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Family Fast Food Restaurant

8/9 Wolfe Tone Square, Bantry • 027-51266

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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’.

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Bridge Street, Bantry, Co. Cork t: 027 55651 www.cookware.ie

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‘Come West along the Wild Atlantic Way to Eileen’s’

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Telephone: 028 36100 / 086 8046415 Email: castle_townshend@hotmail.com Website: www.castle-townshend.com

Traditional Irish Pub LIve musIc every Sunday from 7-9pm (BBQ available on request)

Tel: 027 67057

50 Things to see and do

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Enjoy teas and coffees, wines and beers, light snacks on our terrace overlooking the water.

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New Street, Bantry | 027 52700

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The Tin Pub in Ahakista

The Goats Path Drive

The Goats path drive is the ‘scenic’ route which connects Kilcrohane to Bantry via Ghearies. The drive offers a sweeping vista of Bantry Bay. At the summit, Seefin mountain, there is a statue of The Pieta and a parking layby. Also, look out for Finn McCools seat, a lovely stone slab that has the inscription ‘Water and Ground in their Extremity’

Set on the shores of Dunmanus Bay, the Tin Pub not only has splendid views, a beer garden set in a mature garden and a path leading down to a small secret beach, but is in itself quite a phenomenon. How often can you say you have had a pint in a Tin Pub?

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, Toreen, 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 whale or pod of dolphins. www.livingthesheepsheadway.com

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The Sheeps Head Producers 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.

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Visit a Working Forge in Durrus

Cronin’s Forge had its humble beginnings in a garage in 1980 and has since expanded through 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 landscape architects and interior designers across Ireland. There is a retail outlet onsite which is open to the public 6 days a week.

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Hot & Cold Deli Service Extensive Wine Collection Confectionery In-Store Bakery

027 50219

Open 7 Days a week 7am - 10.30pm

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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 town which has about 800 inhabitants on a permanent basis but which number swells considerably during the summer months when visitors flock to the village as they have done since the 1700’s when the town boomed in Victorian times as a destination of note on the Prince-Of-Wales-Route.

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Skibbereen Heritage Centre

horsedrawn carriage tours along scenic routes around wider Bantry area weddings and special occasions Based in Ballylickey, But can also meet passengers elsewhere

Bantry, Co. Cork www.horsepowerinireland.com Tel: 087 9389867 Horsepower In Ireland

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Great Famine Exhibition

uses the latest multi-media to bring this period of Irish history to life.

Skibbereen was one of the worst affected areas in Ireland as evidenced by the mass graves at Abbeystrowry.

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50 Things to see and do

o’Sullivan’s Filling Station, GlenGarriff

Quick Pick

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Lough Hyne Visitor Centre

a fascinating insight into Ireland’s first Marine Nature Reserve, just 5km from Skibb.

Visit the lake afterwards and follow the Nature Trail up Knockomagh Hill.

Genealogy Information

POSt OFFice tel: 027 63001

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www.skibbheritage.com

FREE EVENTS FOR HERITAGE WEEK

Open Daily except Sunday June-August Open Tue-Sat other months, 10am - 6pm.

Old Gasworks Building, Upper Bridge Street, Skibbereen

Tel: 028 40900

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The chapel at Gougane Barra is the most picturesque chapel in all of Ireland. It is situated on an island in the romantic mountain lake where Saint Finbarr established his hermitage. The source of the River Lee is found in the slopes above the lake. The adjacent Forest park also has numerous paths and trails to explore and is a walkers paradise with something to suit every ability. www.gouganebarra.com

Glengarriff Nature Reserve and Woods

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 wellmaintained paths. The Riverside walk is a gentle loop walk of about 1km. The Big Meadow Walk (3.5km) and the walk up to Lady Bantry’s Lookout are two other very popular walks in the woods.

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Kayak from Snave to Whiddy Island

Ewe Gallery and Gardens

The Ewe gallery 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 were you discover that ‘the more you look, the more you see’.

Learn to kayak under expert guidance for beginners. Lessons are held in the sheltered waters near Snave pier in small groups. More experienced kayakers can take an expedition to Whiddy island. Contact Ciaran Seawright on 027-66134 or email for details ciaranseawright@gmail.com

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Gougane Barra

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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.

Future Forests

Future Forests is an award winning and innovative garden centre. The shop is built out of wood and children love threading 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 plant and have it posted directly to your home.

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Bluepool – Poulgorm

Kealkil Stone Circle

The Kealkil Stone is a megalithic site comprising a Stone Circle, Standing Stones and Cairn. The Stone Circle consists of five axis stones and the standing stone, over 4 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, are well worth the effort.

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Holy Well at Kealkil

There are over 3000 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.

4^ OPEN JUNE 27th

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Luxury Accommodation Also Available

OPENS JUNE 27th

Afternoon Tea is a Speciality by appointment: T: 087 6728615 Served from 1.30pm-5pm

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T he he ar t of S k ib be re en The West Cork Hotel is situated in the market town of Skibbereen, an ideal base for touring West Cork and Kerry

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Beara Peninsula

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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.

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Skibbereen Heritage Centre, Skibbereen

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.

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Illnacullen Gardens, Garinish Island, Glengarriff

Located in the sheltered waters of Glengarriff harbour, Garinish Island is home to one of the most luscious gardens in Ireland. There is so much to see on the island from the Martello tower, to alluring walled gardens, Japanese gardens, the Casita, hidden beaches and the 100 steps that leaves you with a sense of enchantment. There are ferries which operate from Glengarriff and on the way, you will pass the seal colony which is a lovely sight.

Bantry House and 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.

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The Allihies Copper Mine Museum is located in the old Methodist church which served the Cornish miners. The Musem tells of the miners’ lives and of the appalling conditions they worked in including those of the women and children.

The museum also has an art gallery, gift shop and café which has a full lunch menu and wine list.

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Mizen Lighthouse, Mizen

Situated at the end of the Mizen Peninsula, the visitor centre is a fantastic place to visit. The rugged coastline can be beautifully admired by crossing the suspension bridge to visit the award winning maritime museum that is situated in the original lighthouse. The keeper’s kitchen and bedroom 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 as each room has been dedicated to a particular aspect of things pertaining to the Mizen.

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Puxleys Mansion and the famous novel -Daphne du Maurier

This moody, gothic style mansion was once the home of the prosperous Puxley family who made their fortune from copper mining in Allihies. The house was burned down by the IRA in 1921. Right beside the Puxley mansion is Dunboy Castle, which was besieged and destroyed by English forces in 1602. A famous novel, ‘Hungry Hill’ written by Daphne du Maurier is based on the Puxley family and was written whilst she was a guest at Puxley manor.

Also Hungry Hill is a delightful and refreshing hike with fantastic views of the sea and rugged landscape.

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Kayaking with Seals in Adrigole

At the West Cork Sailing centre, not only can you learn to sail like an expert, but you can hire a skippered sailing yacht and take a trip to Bere Island. Kayaking is also on offer and as Adrigole has such a sheltered bay, it makes an ideal venue for beginners, who will also be delighted in the inquisitive seals who like to swim alongside the kayaks. www.westcorksailing.com

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 and cattle and sheep are regular customers. The ride takes about 10 minutes as it dangles you 250m across the Dursey sound, a notoriously treacherous channel of water.www.durseyisland.ie

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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 McCarthy’s Bar on the square which is featured on the cover of Pete McCarthy’s book. Dating back to the 1870s, little as possible has changed since.

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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 cafe which has a full lunch menu and wine list.

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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 governorgeneral of the Irish Free State and who was born in Bantry.

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PADi Diving in the Beara

Go diving in Beara – for advanced divers, there are reefs, wrecks, pinnacles and drifts to explore. There is a 3 hour beginner programme which runs each day giving people the chance to discover the wonders of Scuba diving for the first time. www.bearadiving.com

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Allihies Copper Mine Museum, Café & Gallery Allihies, Beara, Co. Cork Open 7 days a week from 9.30am to 6pm Home baking a speciality Inside and outside dining Art exhibitions throughout the summer Museum shop Weekend guided walks of the area See Allihies Copper Café Facebook page for events during the Summer For enquiries about the museum, café or gift shop call 00 353 (0)27 73218.

You can email us at info@acmm.ie .

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BantRy

Something for everyone Dining in Sugarloaf Restaurant Food and Drink in the Carbery Bar (Bar Menu) Live Music and Dancing in Hannie Murphys Bar west cork flavoured bar menu

Fully Equipped Leisure Centre: · Swimming Pool · Gym · Sauna · Jacuzzi · Steam Room · Variety of Treatments Facilities available to non-members, excluding gym. T&C’s apply

· · · · · · · ·

childrens outdoor Play area Pitch and Putt tennis courts Parkland walks entertainment nightly during season venue for wedding receptions and all special occasions 100 ensuite bedrooms 9 self catering cottages

Excellent destination for touring West Cork and Kerry Home of tHe fastnet international car rally

Regular venue for céilí and Irish dance nights

Westlodge Hotel & Leisure Centre, Bantry, Co. Cork Tel : 027 50360 www.westlodgehotel.ie | reservations@westlodgehotel.ie

MORE GREAT THINGS TO SEE & DO In The Area

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Hike up Mount Gabriel

– at 407 metres this is the highest summit in the area. The top of the hill is used by the Irish Aviation Authority to house the transatlantic radar. The views from the top are spectacular looking out over Roaringwater Bay, the Beara peninsula and even towards the South Kerry. On a clear day you can also see the Fastnet Lighthouse,(oh by the way, for the less actively inclined there is also a public road to the summit that you can drive up...)

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Located 5 miles from Goleen, the Mizen Head Signal Station was built to save lives off the treacherous rocks at Ireland’s most south-westerly point. An award winning Maritime Museum and Heritage Attraction, this authentic all-weather experience is a must-see with its spectacular location on high cliffs overlooking swirling Atlantic Ocean tides. From the car park and visitor centre, the Signal Station is a ten minute walk along the path, down the 99 steps and across the Arched Bridge The Fastnet Rock Lighthouse, Ireland’s Teardrop, is visible from here (on a clear day) and was the last landfall seen by many emigrants to America and one of Marconi’s first telegraph stations. There is also a café here so you’re able to feed the kids.

A good day out for all packed with amazing views, interactive exhibits and the history of cross atlantic telecommunications.

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Schull Planetarium and Observatory

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Barleycove is the beach mecca of West Cork. It is a beach of such outstanding beauty that it has been designated as a Special Area of Conservation by the European Union. The Dunes are said to have been deposited there by a Tsunami that occurred in Portugal in November 1755 and are now home to a variety of animals, plants and insects.

Priests Leap

Bantry Bookshop

New Books | Children’s Books Second Hand & Bargain Books Book Ordering | Stationery Gift Books | Book Tokens Marino Street, Bantry 027 55946 | bantrybooks@msn.com

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Mealagh Woods, or known locally as Quentin’s 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 4000 years old. www.everytrail.com

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The Caha Mountain Pass To Molly Gallivan’s, Bonane

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 carved Druid as he stands gazing out over the valley.

Barleycove Beach and Dunes

The Priests 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.

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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. It is interesting to note that the last train crossed over the bridge on the 27th January 1947 before the railway was permanently closed.

Drimoleague Heritage Walkways

Drimoleague is the “Walkers’ Junction of West Cork”. It’s nine miles of walkways converge with the Eastern Sheep’s Head Way, and lead on to the Top of the Rock where St Finbarr’s Pilgrim Way then takes you all the way to Gougane Barra. The Top of the Rock Pod Páirc and Walking Centre is a delightful farm accommodation centre with seven camping pods set in a working farm and suitable for families, couples and walking groups.

Campervans are also welcomed. www.topoftherock.ie.

Irelands only Planetarium is situated right in West Cork and is a unique, educational resource. It is situated on the grounds of Schull Community College and 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 7 are generally discouraged as it cannot hold their attention for that amount of time. www.schullcommunitycollege.com/planetarium

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Mizen Head Visitor Centre

The Railway Arch Bridge

50 Things to see and do

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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 just off the trail. The Moyney is a beautiful riverside woodland walk. www.drimoleaguewalkway.com

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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 standing idle for years, but its refurbishment has recently been completed and for the first time ever, guided tours and entry will be available this summer.

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Take a drive, marvel at our scenery

Bantry makes an ideal base from which to tour both the Beara and Sheep’s Head peninsulas. Set aside at least a day for each, with 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 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 Goat’s Path, around to Kilcrohane, Ahakista, Durrus and back to Bantry.

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BUSINESS

INDEX Model Railway Village Clonakilty....................................y Skibbereen Heritage Centre............................................4) Mizen Head Signal Station ...............................................t Allihies Copper Mine Museum ........................................4* Whiddy Island Ferry ..........................................................5% The Brick Oven ...................................................................5( Bantry Bay Golf Club .........................................................1# Bantry Driving Academy ..................................................2!

Horse Power in Ireland......................................................3( Top Of The Rock .................................................................5!

Burkes of Bantry ................................................................1^ B Men ..................................................................................1( Hegarty’s Mace Supermarket .........................................3% The Children’s Shop ..........................................................1) Vapourpal Bantry ..............................................................6) Mannings Emporium ........................................................3^ Floury Hands ......................................................................i The Cookware Company ..................................................3!

Andrews Centra ..................................................................2) Teddy O’Brien TV & Electrical .........................................1$ The Quays Bar ....................................................................2^ The Waterfront Bar............................................................1& Julie’s Diner.........................................................................2$ Coen’s Pharmacy ..............................................................2# Bantry Pet & Equine ..........................................................1%

5#

The

Card Shop 5 New Street, Bantry Tel: 027 52220

Instant Photo Printing Greeting Cards For All Occasions Wide Range Of Gifts

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Bantry Bookshop ...............................................................5) The Outlet ...........................................................................5@ Stowaway Crafts & Toys ...................................................4^ The Bake House .................................................................2% New Street Jewelllery & Gifts ..........................................3# De Barra’s ...........................................................................u Willie Pa’s & O’Connor’s .............................................qw Bantry Yarns (Knitting Shop) ...........................................o Jessie’s Hair & Beauty ......................................................2@ Organico Health Food Shop & Café ................................1* Tractors Family Restaurant ..............................................1@ The Card Shop ....................................................................5# O’Keeffe’s Supervalu .......................................................1!

West Cork Hotel.................................................................4& The TreeHouse Skibbereen Indoor Play & Café ...........5& Bantry Tourism ..................................................................5* Westlodge Hotel ................................................................4( The Maritime Hotel ............................................................r The Castle, Castletownshend..........................................2* The Secret Wardrobe and River Lodge .........................4% Spar ......................................................................................4!

Harrington’s Bar/The Maple Leaf ..................................3@ The Green Door ..................................................................4# Glengarriff Pharmacy .......................................................4@ Blue Pool Ferry (Garnish Island) .....................................3* Glengarriff Petrol Station .................................................4$ Joe’s Internet Café ............................................................5^ Carbery Sailing ...................................................................2!

Durrus Farmhouse Cheese..............................................2& Arundels By The Pier.........................................................3$ Eileen’s Bar ........................................................................2( The Sheeps Head Inn Bar & Restaurant ........................2& The Longboat Bar ..............................................................5$

longboaT bar Durrus 027-61144 5$

TradiTional irish Pub

Serving Good Food Live Music Every Weekend, With Trad Session’s Every Friday Night Pool Table & Free Wifi Available

All PArties CAtereD For

Whiddy Island

Ferry

Frequent sailings daily from Bantry Ask on board about Bike Hire | Pony and Trap Trips

Contact Tim on

086 862 6734

www.whiddyferry.com

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Welcome to Beautiful Bantry The Bantry Development & Tourism Association would like to welcome you to our lovely town. Bantry, in the heart of West Cork, is a region of lush vegetation, palm trees and semi-tropical flowers. The landscape is mountainous with parallel ridges running through the various peninsulas to the sea – mainly in the north-east/south hyphen west direction. The rest of the terrain is occupied by valleys, hidden glens, hills, fast running rivers, woods and forests.The Bantry region is divided into three main areas corresponding with the peninsulas; i.e. The Beara Peninsula, The Sheep’s Head and the Mizen Peninsula. Bantry is the ideal base to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the coastal routes around each of the peninsulas. Bantry and West Cork is considered the most friendly, helpful, generous and possessing the gift of unlimited conversation with a great sense of humour. Bantry has a wide range of festivals throughout the year and all these events can be seen on our website www.visitbantry.ie or visit us in the Bantry Community Tourist Office which is staffed by volunteers from the area with the support of Cork County Council & Fáilte Ireland. Enjoy the many attractions and amenities here in Bantry in this excellent local publication by the Southern Star. We hope you enjoy your stay with us here in Bantry and look forward to welcoming you back.

June West Cork Chamber Music Festival 27th June - 5th July July West Cork Literary Festival 6th - 12th Bantry Bay Pirate Festival & Whiddy Island Food Festival 19th - 20th August BBQ & Country Music Festival 1st - 4th Bantry Hospice Project Family Walk 4th Miss Bantry Beauty Pageant 29th -30th Windsurfing Weekend 30th & 31st

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September Bantry Agricultural Show 7th September October Westlodge Hotel Fastnet Rally 24th - 27th November Chief O’Neill Traditional Music Festival 14th - 16th December New Year Family Gathering 31st December & 1st Jan. www.visitbantry.ie e. bantryevents@gmail.com

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Help A Smoker Quit todAy High Street, Bantry, Co. Cork 087 069 2016