Hidden Gems In East Cork

Darina Allen’s world-renowned, multi-award-winning Ballymaloe Cookery School is located just 4km from the hotel. Residents can collect a complimentary entry ticket from reception to go and enjoy their organic farm, gardens and shop that sells fresh produce, baked goods, artisan cheese and meat.

With a dedicated ferry operating from Ballycotton Pier, you can venture across the bay to Ballycotton Island. There, a local guide will give you a fully guided tour of sights, including the iconic black Ballycotton Lighthouse. Running from April to September and weather dependent, the whole trip lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Starting from Ballycotton village near the lifeboat station, this beautifully scenic walk continues along a dedicated track with the meadows on one side and the ocean on the other. Being a one-way walk, it allows you to choose the length of walk you are comfortable doing.

Set on the idyllic Garryvoe Beach and providing splendid views of Ballycotton Lighthouse, the beach sauna offers a unique space in which you can revitalise your mind, body and soul. Open seasonally and available for private hire, it can comfortably accommodate up to 10 people.

Whether you are interested in the ‘Queenstown Story’ of Irish Emigration, tracing your ancestors, learning more about the ill-fated Titanic and Lusitania, or immersing yourself in our rich naval and military history, a trip to Cobh Heritage Centre is a must.

Step into a world of grandeur and experience historic elegance, meeting natural beauty in the wonderful Fota House. This beautifully restored period house is now under the care of the Irish Heritage Trust and boasts neo-classical interiors that combine the charm of history with modern amenities.

This wonderful looped walk is 8 kilometres that includes cliff, track and road walks. Home to a signal tower dating from 1803 that was designed to spot an incoming fleet of invaders, this should take you approximately 90 minutes to complete and is suitable for older kids and adults.

Discover the heart and soul of Irish whiskey at Midleton Distillery, the home of iconic brands including Jameson and Redbreast. Immerse yourself in their rich heritage through guided tours, tastings and a cocktail-making masterclass. The renovated visitor experience features the world’s largest pot still, a micro-distillery and more. Our guests can avail of a 10% discount if you just ask at the hotel reception.

One of the most famous in Ireland, this lovely farmer’s market was established over a decade ago by Ballymaloe Cookery School’s own Darina Allen and local farmers. Open every Saturday from 09:00 to 13:00, you can find fresh local produce, homemade cakes, handmade breads and much, much more.

This Irish handmade pottery venture was founded on a core appreciation of craftsmanship. Today, its collections include Stephen Pearce, Atlantic Wave, Blue on Red handmade pottery, personalised gifts and much more. The shop opens Monday to Friday, from 11:00 to 17:00 and is really worth a visit.

1,300 years of Irish history, 104 acres of nature and originally the site of a monastic settlement, Spike Island now includes two scenic walking trails. Along them are dotted pretty houses, abandoned villages, convict cemeteries and the original 1804 fortress that crowns the island.