The Perfect Getaway: Cork Ireland

"No visit to Ireland is really complete without a visit to the “Rebel County” of Cork as it is known locally. Located in the province of Munster in South East Ireland, County Cork offers something to suit all tastes, ages and budgets. Location for the recently acclaimed movie “The Wind That Shakes The Barley” County Cork is steeped in a rich and varied history with locals having a deep sense of pride in their heritage and history. Famed the world over for The Cork Guinness Jazz Festival, some of the finest golf courses in Ireland, its’ spectacular scenery, miles of safe sandy beaches and excellent cuisine County Cork offers visitors much more than many other traditional tourism hotspots. County Cork is the largest of the 32 Irish counties and is home to Cork City, Kinsale, Youghal, Midleton, Cobh, Skibeereen, Glengarriff, Schull, Bandon and Bantry to name but some of its better known towns. Each of these locations provide visitors with a wide array of attractions and activities to enjoy. Below are some useful tips when visiting Cork for the first time.nHow to get to CorknRyanair.com offer daily flights to Cork Airport from Dublin that are reasonably priced, however hiring a car is a better alternative especially if you want to explore your surrounds. Flights direct to Cork also operate from a number of mainland European and UK locations mainly with Ryanair, Aer Lingus, Aer Arann and BMI Baby. Car rental is available in any major location or airport including Cork Airport. A number of daily commuter trains operate between Dublin and Cork also departing from Houston Station in Dublin. This option is quite pricy however. Where to stay in CorknCork hotels are always a safe and reliable option but advance booking is always advisable especially during busy periods. The links below provide a comprehensive listing of all hotels in Cork. Staying self catering is also a popular choice especially among families. Self catering allows greater flexibility but normally operates weekly-Saturday-Saturday. Numerous Bed and Breakfasts, Farmhouses, Hostels and Guesthouses are also available depending on your requirements. What to do in CorknThis really depends on your own personal interests and where you decide to base yourself. However a visit to Fota Wildlife Park in East Cork, near Midleton is an excellent day out. Why not try taking in a game of golf or visiting the famous Blarney Stone and Woolen mills? Perhaps a spot of shopping in Cork City’s main thoroughfare-St Patricks Street, followed by a relaxing drink or bite to eat in the many and varied pubs and restaurants that dot the city backstreets is what tickles your fancy? For the more adventurous why not try a spot of deep sea fishing, paragliding or paintballing? Ever wanted to taste crocodile or shark? If this is what whets your appetite then make sure to visit Kinsale, widely recognized as one of Europe’s leading culinary towns. Perhaps a spot of traditional Irish music a pint of Murphy’s Stout, fresh oysters or a visit to The Jameson Irish Whiskey Distillery appeals? Explore neighboring counties Kerry and Waterford, visit The Titanic Museum in Cobh, leave your footprints but not your memories on one of the numerous sandy beaches in Cork. Cork offers all this and so much more… For more info please visit Hotels in Cork Ireland