[a snippet taken from Kinsale.ie … www.kinsale.ie for more information]
Originally a medieval fishing port, historic Kinsale (from the Irish, Ceann tSaile – ‘Head of the Sea’) is one of the most picturesque, popular and historic towns on the south west coast of Ireland.
Only 18 miles from Cork City and Cork International Airport, Kinsale is the gateway to scenic West Cork and is the start/finish point of the ‘Wild Atlantic Way,’ the 2,500km coastal journey from Kinsale, Co Cork to Inishowen, Co Donegal.
Visitors to Kinsale are captivated by its beautiful setting; its long waterfront, yacht-filled harbour, narrow winding streets and brightly painted galleries, shops and houses. The impressive fortifications of Charles Fort and James Fort guard the narrow entrance from the sea – giving clues to its rich history. There are a number of guided walking tours (including an evening Ghost Tour!) available and plenty of information at the Kinsale Tourist Office in the centre of the town.
Twinned with Antibes, South of France, Mumbles, Wales and Newport, Rhode Island, it is in good company and well placed to be referred to as ‘Ireland’s Riveria’!
The Old Head of Kinsale Golf Links has become a world class golf destination, Kinsale Yacht Club hosts many international sailing events and the accessibility to the water ensures Kinsale is a popular marine activities hub with deep sea angling, scuba diving, boat hire, fishing, kayaking, climbing and abseiling – appealing to adventure travelers of all ages.
Not only does Kinsale claim to be one of the most picturesque and oldest towns in Ireland, it is also internationally renowned for the number and quality of its restaurants. It has been hailed as ‘The Gourmet Capital of Ireland’, with no shortage of cafés, pubs and restaurants to suit every taste and budget.
However active or relaxed you wish to be on your holiday or mini-break, Kinsale not only offers you a world of choice but allows you to take things at your own pace. We look forward to welcoming you to Kinsale and hope that you enjoy your stay with us.
