Allihies was the birth place of my grandfather, Daniel Harrington. I have visited the family farm a few times about ten years ago. My wife and I fell in love with the place. I would love to retire there but for the paucity of medical facilities.
I have just been able to determine that Dunmanway is the ancestral home of our family, with the head being Nathan Capron Davis. My mother who is deceased tried to determine this for years, but never succeeded. I certainly would plan on visiting the area to make her wish come true.
Allihies is a wonderful place to visit and to live. The drive from the capital is a little daunting! However, considering the the atmosphere and the wonderful time you'll have there, it is worth it. Just be careful of the old mineworkings - though most now are fenced off. A week is not long enough to spend there. More Americans should go there. All the best.
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!!
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.
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.
Glengarriff … Glengariff was the most beautiful place I've ever had the pleasure of seeing, but the worst stay of my entire life! Too many months of pure hell-- if you're not an alcoholic or an adulterer, DON'T GO. There were a few good folk, but the rest...I say no more.
Glengarriff … Even being Irish i have to say it is the most beautiful place I know in the country. The cafe beneath a hostel sells georgous muffins too. It's a really great 'take a break from everything' place.
Glengarriff … Friends and I spent five days in Glengariff in 2004. I long for that place and will certainly go back. In two trips to Ireland this is my favorite place. Love it!
Allihies … Love the Beara P. I am an American who lived over in Cork for 4 years, and the Beara and the West of Cork were my favorite parts of the country. Best way to feel Ireland is to visit West Cork and North of Galway... you won't regret it!
Clonakilty … For slightly more than only three thousand inhabitants, a lively and interesting place. Plenty of pleasant pubs and lots to do nearby. Don't miss the Protestant church-turned-post office, with a life-size statue of Michael Collins (who was labelled a "terrorist" in his lifetime) outside.
Glengarriff … This is one of the great scenic locations in Ireland - and thats saying something. Don't miss the subtropical gardens on the Island in the Bay.
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