Page 39 - (DK Eyewitness) Back Roads Travel Guide - Ireland

DRIVE 1: A Taste of East Cork 37

the village follow signs to the as steep steps down to a rocky
cookery school or take the R629 swimming cove, known aptly as
towards Cloyne to the front Paradise. Take heed of warning signs
entrance). Non-guests may visit the and fenced-off areas on the walk.
gardens (Mon–Sat) and shop, which ª Take R629 back to Shanagarry,
sells local produce, seasonal plants then turn right onto R632. On
and fancy kitchenware. reaching Ladysbridge, turn right onto
ª From Shanagarry, take a left turn R633 to Ballymacoda. There, turn left
at the petrol station onto the R629 onto R634 to Youghal, passing along
and follow to Ballycotton. its picturesque strand.
6 Ballycotton 7 Youghal
Co Cork Co Cork
Ballycotton is a quiet fishing village The 8 km (5 miles) of golden sandy
overlooking a pretty island with a beach at Youghal naturally play an Above Ballycotton Island with its lighthouse,
lighthouse that shelters its harbour important part in its popularity as a buffeted by Atlantic breakers
from Atlantic gales. Rare seabirds seaside resort. However, the town is
take shelter at the marshland bird also steeped in history and it is said EAT AND DRINK
sanctuary during stormy weather, that Sir Walter Raleigh planted the
but around 300 species of bird in all first Irish potato here in 1585. The COBH
visit Ballycotton during the year. A ancient port retains original walls Jacob’s Ladder moderate
fishing fleet and sea-angling vessels and towers from the 13th century. Modern Irish cuisine in a lovely setting
are based in the harbour. There are The Clock Gate over the main street with views over Cork Harbour.
various coves and shore walks, and dates from 1777; the Collegiate Church Waters Edge Hotel; 021 481 5566;
www.watersedgehotel.ie/restaurant
the cliff walk has great views, as well of Saint Mary the Virgin from 1220.
MIDLETON
Farm Gate moderate
The store fronting this popular eatery
gives a flavour of the delicious organic
and home-baked produce on offer.
The Coolbawn; 021 463 2771; www.
farmgate.ie; dinner served Thu–Sat
only; closed Sun & hols
SHANAGARRY
Ballymaloe House expensive
Home of celebrity chef Darina Allen
(see Ballymaloe Cookery School box),
Ballymaloe is acclaimed for gourmet
cuisine using local garden produce.
Also offers luxury accommodation.
Shanagarry; 021 465 2531;
www.ballymaloe.ie
YOUGHAL
Aherne’s of Youghal expensive
Local seafood is a speciality in this cosy
restaurant and bar in historic Youghal.
163 North Main Street, Youghal;
Above The beautiful golden sands at the historic port town of Youghal 024 92424; www.ahernes.net

DAY TRIP OPTIONS Follow the drive instructions but, Follow the drive instructions from
Cork, Midleton and Ballycotton are instead of turning off to Fota Island, Midleton to Shanagarry.
ideal bases to explore the local history, continue on the R624 direct to Cobh. A day at the seaside
scenery and gourmet delights. Fine Irish food and drink Go beach-hopping from Ballycotton
Nominate a designated driver, or hire
East Cork history trail a taxi, to travel the short distance 6, ending the day with a seafood
Spend the morning exploring from the Jameson Experience at the supper at Aherne’s in Youghal 7.
historic Cork City 1, then make the Old Distillery in Midleton 4 to the Follow the drive instructions or take
short drive out to Cobh 3 to walk food-lover’s paradise of Ballymaloe the coastal road out to the rugged
the Titanic Trail. House at Shanagarry 5. Knockadoon Head.

Eat and Drink: inexpensive, under €25; moderate, €25–€50; expensive, over €50

034-037_Back_Roads_Ireland.indd 37 11/09/17 11:38 am