Glengarriff is a beautiful spot. Yes, it's great craic, too. You can take the drink or leave it, but just enjoy the relaxation and beauty of the place.
I traveled from one end of Ireland to the other this past month and I have to say that my FAVORITE part of the trip was my stay in a little town outside Glengarriff named Adrigole. The most beautiful countryside I have ever seen. Also I would be remiss if I did not mention the most wonderful person we met in Ireland...his name is Gene O'Sullivan and he is the owner of Glengarriff Cabs & Coach Services, He was the most accommodating, informative, charming individual that we met in Ireland and he gives the most fantastic tours. My family and I agree that he was definitely the HIGHLIGHT of our trip. If you are ever in the area or are planning to visit, Gene is the man to call if you want to see the BEST of Ireland. His number in Ireland is 027 63060. From the US you would dial 011 353 27 63060. He will take you places you would never think of driving. Thanks Gene for a wonderful first visit to Ireland. We will be back!!
Cork is an amazing city! It's small like a town but so interesting that you need a month to see everything. The broad streets in Shandon are charming, the houses of different colours are lovely, and there are lots of pubs where you can have fun with the Irish people. Cork City Jail (Gaol) is a recommended place to visit too. No doubt, Cork is my favourite city in Ireland.
I visited with my mom, sis, and uncle way back in 1979 and am finally getting to return with my husband and daughters this summer. I can't wait. Allihies/Ballydonegan is the the birthplace of my maternal grandmother, Anna Shea. I am so looking forward to showing my girls their heritage in such a beautiful place.
This is a great city -- small, so it is easy to explore on foot. I rang the Shandon Bells (nice thing to do -- hear your tune played out over the city!). The English Market is cool to wander in and buy lunch -- I ate it in the Peace Park across the way. I like the cafe in the Crawford Art Gallery too, but my best cup of coffee was in Cork Coffee Roasters on Bridge Street. It's excellent if made by the owners. The Bank of the Lee walk by the river takes you to the park or the university (the Glucksman Gallery there is cool). You have to bounce on the Shakey Bridge near the Park too!
Glengarriff is the most beautiful place in Ireland and maybe the whole world. Take some time to visit the hills and do some walking in the forests. We thought the whole place was just amazing.
Sheila's Hostel in Cork … Stayed there for New Year's. Great relaxed vibe, friendly staff, good facilities and close to the centr of Cork. One of the best I've stayed in so far!
Rolf's Holiday Hostel in Baltimore … Best hostel I have ever been in!
Russagh Mill Hostel in Skibbereen … Without a doubt this is the coolest hostel I have ever stayed at. It was clean and spacious with a HUGE kitchen. The common room has a glass ceiling, which looks even cooler when it's raining (not uncommon in Ireland). It's an old mill, so with its stone walls you feel as though you are in your own castle. I just loved it!!!
The Admirals House in Bere Island … This hostel has everything you could ask for. Beautiful rooms overlooking the sea, a huge kitchen, a dining room and a separate sitting room that makes it ideal for large groups. You can book out the hostel completely for your group, and it really feels like a home away from home. It's clean and comfortable, and the all the rooms have their own en suite bathrooms! This is really something very special.
12 Arch Hostel in Ballydehob … I arrived wet and tired to a lovely warm, clean hostel. The people in charge were very friendly and helpful. Rooms, beds, showers, toilets, kitchen were very clean. There was plenty of cooking equipment and loads of room to chill out in the evening. Loads of good pubs within walking distance. Top dollar hostel.
Allihies Village Hostel in Allihies … The Allihies Village Hostel is not just a place to stay, it is a state of mind. I have never stayed in a hostel with such a relaxed, friendly, laid back, and welcoming atmosphere. It is right in the middle of the villoage where there is a local shop where you can buy anything from organic mustard to crab toes! The kitchhen in the hostel is supperbly equipped and you can bring in pints of Guinness or Murphy's from the next door pub to accompany your meal. There are great walks in the area -- beautiful beaches annd wild rugged scenery. John -- who manages the hostel -- is fantastic and creates a great atmosphere and occasionally lights a fire in the courtyard and with his guitar undder the night sky lifts your soul. Great place!
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