Nestled at the very southern tip of Ireland, Baltimoreis a picturesque fishing village steeped in maritime history, with a relaxedand welcoming atmosphere and the dramatically beautiful scenery of the WildAtlantic Way drawing holidaymakers back year after year.
Once sacked by Islamic pirates during the 17th century, whosold many of the villagers into slavery, Baltimoretoday has emerged as one of Cork’s most popular tourist destinations, boastinga wealth of marine-based activities, as well as convenient access to thestunning Hundred Isles just a short distance away.
Sightsin Baltimore
Don’t miss a tour of Dunasead Castle,believed to have been a druid sanctuary at one time, the “Fort of the Jewels” datesback to the 1600s and has been attentively restored in recent years.
One of the area’s best-known landmarks is the BaltimoreBeacon, a white-painted stone column that served as a form oflighthouse. Occupying a superb vantage point above the harbour, it has longbeen given the nickname “Lot’s Wife” after its resemblance to a pillar of salt.
And the charms of Carbery’s Hundred Isles, despite therebeing in reality only around half this number, are undisputed. Take a cruisefrom Baltimore harbour to see Cléire, Heir and SherkinIslands, distinguished by their towering cliffs of rock and stretches of sandybeach.
Eatingin Baltimore
Baltimore’s many excellentrestaurants and lively bars, scattered around the harbour area and furtherinland, offer fantastically fresh seafood direct from the local fishing fleets.The seasonal catch here might include black sole, John Dory, cod and aselection of shellfish. Most Sundays between Easter and September there is alsoa market held at Casey's,where you can expect to find local produce and handicrafts, a useful option forself-caterers and memento seekers alike.
Accommodationin Baltimore
Whether you prefer a cosy bed and breakfast or a prestigioushotel, you’ll find plenty to choose from among the range of high-quality andgood value lodgings in Baltimore. Stay on thecoast, for romantic views of the harbour and the Atlantic beyond, or further inlandin the tranquil countryside.
Activitiesin Baltimore
Understandably, most activities in Baltimorerevolve around the sea. This area is a favourite with sailors and anglers,catered to by abundant boat charters. Scuba diving is also big here, and in thewaters off Baltimore lie several fascinatingwrecks to explore, notably a Second World War submarine. Whale-watching toursare a great idea, especially for families, the winter months offering the bestchance of catching a glimpse of minkes and humpbacks. Seals, dolphins and evenbasking sharks are also often seen on the west Cork coast.
The last Sunday in May sees the taste bud tantalising treatsof Baltimore’s seafood festival, and the townplays host to several other major events throughout the year, including atraditional Irish music festival in April.It’s also well worth taking a stroll into the glorious Corkcountryside, and numerous routes begin and end in Baltimore.Most accommodation will be happy to furnish guests with maps, and the viewsare simply breathtaking.
