Co. Cork
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Food and Drink
At one time the largest butter market in the world, Co. Cork is still famous for its dairy produce with local cheeses winning many awards. The area is seeing a growth in artisan food producers, from free-range pork, chicken and lamb to Cork’s pastries and hand made chocolates. Look out for the Good Food Ireland Cork City Tour for Cresta customers taking in the English Market, a covered food market dating from the early 17th century, that specialises in tempting, local produce, such as smoked salmon and Ballycotton potatoes. The lovely town of Kinsale has something of a gourmet reputation, and 12 of the best restaurants of the town, including Good Food Ireland member Fishy Fishy, have joined together to form the Kinsale Good Food Circle. By taking the half board option at either of our two properties in Kinsale, Cresta customers can take a three course evening meal at any one of the 12 member restaurants.
Shopping
In Cork, Patrick Street is the main shopping area with well-known high street brands plus Brown Thomas, the oldest department store in the city. For something different, try the French Quarter around Paul Street for interesting bookshops, small boutiques specialising in Irish crafts, and antique stores. Outside Cork City, Blarney Woollen Mills is a huge shopping complex on the tourist trail set in original stone mill buildings. As well as souvenirs, there are some quality local products such as Arran jumpers, Waterford Crystal and handcrafted jewellery.
Where To Stay
Things To Do
In Cork, climb to the top of St Anne’s Church for an amazing 360 degree view of the city. The best part is that you can ring the church bells yourself!
At one time the largest butter market in the world, Co. Cork is still famous for its dairy produce with local cheeses winning many awards. The area is seeing a growth in artisan food producers, from free-range pork, chicken and lamb to Cork’s pastries and hand made chocolates. Look out for the Good Food Ireland Cork City Tour for Cresta customers taking in the English Market, a covered food market dating from the early 17th century, that specialises in tempting, local produce, such as smoked salmon and Ballycotton potatoes. The lovely town of Kinsale has something of a gourmet reputation, and 12 of the best restaurants of the town, including Good Food Ireland member Fishy Fishy, have joined together to form the Kinsale Good Food Circle. By taking the half board option at either of our two properties in Kinsale, Cresta customers can take a three course evening meal at any one of the 12 member restaurants.
Shopping
In Cork, Patrick Street is the main shopping area with well-known high street brands plus Brown Thomas, the oldest department store in the city. For something different, try the French Quarter around Paul Street for interesting bookshops, small boutiques specialising in Irish crafts, and antique stores. Outside Cork City, Blarney Woollen Mills is a huge shopping complex on the tourist trail set in original stone mill buildings. As well as souvenirs, there are some quality local products such as Arran jumpers, Waterford Crystal and handcrafted jewellery.
Where To Stay
- County Cork boasts some of Ireland’s most exceptional scenic treats, with a craggy coastline and broad, golden, blue flag beaches. From the historic town of Yougal in the East, to pretty Rosscarbery in the West, you will not need to go far to find a friendly welcome, a cosy pub or even a world class spa or restaurant. Inland, Macroom makes a great base for touring the area, and is home to fascinating 13th century castle ruins, and you’ll hear traditional Irish music in the many pubs and bars. The historic town of Bantry was the scene of the defeat of a French invasion in 1796 and is the perfect base for the scenic and golden beaches of West Cork. The craggy coastline here extends into thin peninsulas such as the Beara or Mizen Head that offer beautiful drives, ranked alongside the famous Ring of Kerry.
- Steeped in history, Ireland’s second city, Cork, is fast gaining a reputation as one of Europe’s hippest cities. With an acclaimed arts scene, Cork is home to some of the best art galleries, theatres and museums in Ireland. Situated on islands in the River Lee, the many bridges give the city a continental feel, which sits elegantly with the Georgian architecture of its successful past. The countryside around Cork City has become home to some of Ireland’s most stylish spa hotels, making the city a perfect destination for a stand alone short break, or as a stop on a longer itinerary.
- Noted by many as Ireland’s gourmet capital, Kinsale in Co Cork is a maze of narrow winding streets and overlooks one of Ireland’s most picturesque harbours - a breathtaking location for any visitor. Steeped in history, Kinsale has many museums, historic sites and is host to some superb restaurants.
Things To Do
- GOOD FOOD IRELAND CORK CITY TOUR - Put together by Good Food Ireland this self guided walking tour of Cork is perfect for those looking for a gourmet day in the city. First visit Ryan’s Arbutus Breads for a unique insight into the operation of a small scale, high quality artisan bakery. Learn the history of bread making, see how Irish Soda Bread is made and smell and taste the best of this Irish artisan produce. Next explore Cork’s English Market, an essential stop for anyone with an interest in excellent quality food at reasonable prices. Meet local stallholders and producers and use your voucher for a tasting at your favourite Good Food Ireland member. Take lunch and dinner at your own pace in Good Food Ireland recommended restaurants and you can be assured of a fabulous gastronomic experience. Package includes bakery tour and vouchers for a tasting, lunch and dinner.
- GOOD FOOD IRELAND WEST CORK TOUR - Discover off the beaten track West Cork with this self drive tour of food producers and the best restaurants from Bantry to Kinsale. Take a tour of a family run smokehouse where the Master Smoker produces the finest organic smoked salmon. Visit an artisan dairy food producer, see the production process and taste their fabulous award winning yogurts and desserts. Choose from a huge variety of restaurants to use your vouchers for afternoon tea, lunch and dinner. Good Food Ireland East Cork Tour including the Ballymaloe Cookery School also available
In Cork, climb to the top of St Anne’s Church for an amazing 360 degree view of the city. The best part is that you can ring the church bells yourself!
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