GLENGARRIFF - Often called 'Ireland's Garden Haven' for its natural beauty Glengarriff is a beautiful town at the foot of the Caha Mountains world-renowned Bantry Bay. Offering stunning attractions including the world-famous Italianate Gardens on Garnish Island there is something for everyone to discover - and plenty of places afterwards for shops, galleries, accommodation and of course Casey's Hotel fo a great pint with local food.
Glengarriff has been famous as a holiday destination since the 1700s and boomed in the Victorian times as an important stop along the Prince-of-Wales-Route. WB Yeats was a regular visitor in the 1920s. Today the village attracts visitors from all over the world. The population of the Glengarriff is just 800 and it expands significantly in size during the summer months. A natural meeting place, with its unrivalled beauty, peace and tranquillity, Glengarriff invites you to sit back, relax and take in the very special ambience of the place.
Blue Pool just a few minutes walk from Casey's Hotel is a magical harbour hidden in this beautiful area of seaside woodland, which has been extensively developed, is set in the heart of the village and has many trails and walkways through an idyllic forested area with views of the harbour that are well worth exploring. If you pass beyond the Blue Pool itself you reach an area referred to as The Point where there is a diving board and a beautiful sun trapped bathing area as well as a pontoon from which to swim off.
You will have great choice when deciding where to eat locally. The hotels, restaurants, bars and coffee shops in Glengarriff offer a taste for every palate. Most pubs and hotels also hold regular music events.
For kids, Glengarriff has an adventure playground situated in the Blue Pool Park or older children might enjoy kayaking in the bay. And for the golf enthusiast, Glengarriff’s 9-hole golf course offers spectacular views of the harbour.
Glengarriff’s most famous face is Maureen O’Hara, Hollywood legend, who made Glengarriff her home for so many years and is very involved in the local community. Maureen starred in over 60 films during her long career.
Other Activities from Glengarriff:
Bantry Bay Charters http://bantrybaycharters.ie Based in Glengarriff, marine adventures for groups, families, couples and individuals. Choose from a cruise around the bay, marine wildlife tours, fishing trips for all levels or a complete customised day on the bay.
Whale Watch West Cork http://www.whalewatchwestcork.com A don’t miss close encounter with the oceans most wonderful creatures
West Cork Sailing and Powerboat Centre http://www.westcorksailing.com Sailing courses/trips, Kayaking, Canoeing etc Sail and stay packages available at Casey’s Hotel.
Beara Tourism http://www.bearatourism.com The Beara Peninsula is steeped in myths & legends. The mountains & valleys are rich in archaeological sites such as stone circles, wedge graves & other relics from the past.
Glengarriff Golf Club http://www.glengarriffgolfclub.com A magnificently located 9 hole course bounded by Oak Forests and the bay.
Wanderlust http://www.wanderlust.ie With your guide you can explore the mountains, the glens, the rivers & the ancient woodlands.
The Ewe Gallery & Sculpture Garden http://www.theewe.com Experience Ireland's most unique sculpture garden & gallery in a spectacular forest waterfall oasis.
The Bamboo Park http://www.bamboo-park.com This unique exotic garden has thirty different species of bamboo surrounded by palms & tropical plants, amidst of romantic paths & breathtaking views.
The Harbour Queen Ferry http://www.harbourqueenferry.com Take the Harbour Queen Ferry 20 minute sail to Garnish Island known to horticulturists & lovers of trees & shrubs all around the world as an island garden of great beauty.
Sharon O'Rourke Photography https://www.sharonorourkephotography.com