Garnish Island, or "Illuaculin" is Ireland's most outstanding garden island with an internationally famous collection of plants and world renowned Italian Gardens, often credited to the Gulf Stream which passes the coastline.
Golf: Glengarriff and Bantry Golf Clubs are close by. Glengarriff Golf Club is truly a club with a view! The nine holes are in one of the loveliest settings in Ireland, with scenic views abounding - especially the one from the fifth! The grassy lane between the second and third holes is part of the ancient road between Adrigole and Bantry which also comes up by the trees which run across the course near the eight and ninth holes. The clubhouse was opened in 1989 by the clubs Honorary President, Dr Maureen O'Hara-Blair, the famous film star. Visitors are welcome, and generally may play all day, with clubs available for hire.
Sailing: Access to Bantry Bay, one of the worlds largest natural harbours, is via the public slipway, opposite the Eccles Hotel, and visitors moorings are available for even the largest of boats. There is an excellent sailing school in Adrigole, with various courses running throughout the year and dingy and kayak available for rent.
Fishing: West Cork is an angler’s paradise. Deep sea fishing, shore fishing (featured by Henry Gilby), game and coarse are all available. Just a short walk from the house there are many hill loughs, which hold a good head of brown trout.
For more in-depth information please contact the owner who is very keen!
Walking/Cycling: There are many planned walks through the woods and along the coast near the village. These are signposted and maps are obtained from the Tourist Office. Further afield are the “Beara Way” and routes into the hills and mountains. Road biking is very popular with energy sapping hill climbs and stunning views.
Glengarriff to Garnish Island Ferries: Regular boat trips leave from the harbour, Blue Pool and Ellens Rock to visit the tropical gardens. Extra tours can be organised for viewing the numerous seals and sea lions that bask on the rocks and waters around the islands.
Spinning Wheel: Visitors to the Spinning Wheel can browse the craft and gift section and visit the fashion outlet on thepremises, with well known brands stocked.
Glengarriff Bamboo Park: The Bamboo Park is the southwest’s newest exotic garden featuring 30 different species of bamboo, 12 different species of palm trees, superb coastal woodland walks, unique views of Glengarriff, 13 mysterious pillars and much more. This work in progress is not yet a mature garden, although as their size increases every year, how tall and broad they become only the future can tell. It all depends on the local soil and climate conditions. This experiment continues a horticultural tradition which has already given Glengarriff an international reputation. |
