Unique Irish Festivals to Discover: A Taste of West Cork

A TASTE OF WEST CORK
September 6-15
Various venues, West Cork
atasteofwestcork.com

Celebrating the joy of great food, A Taste of West Cork Food Festival is an iconic event on the Irish foodie’s calendar. The annual ten-day festival takes place across 41 local towns and villages, as well as eight islands. It boasts over 250 events in a variety of unique venues, from stately homes and castles to distilleries. It’s an amazing event with food markets, cooking demonstrations, banquets, tastings, exhibitions and foraging experiences on offer. There are countless ways to enjoy the food culture of West Cork. The award-winning festival also offers visitors the chance to come face-to-face with the pioneering food producers who make the local food scene so special.

While you’re in the area:

West Cork, one of the most beautiful places in the world, boasts its very own balmy microclimate, and contains some of Ireland’s most breath-taking hidden gems. For unforgettable views, take a coastal walk along the Sheep’s Head peninsula, between Bantry Bay and Dunmanus Bay. Lough Hyne, a sea-water lake near Skibbereen, can also be explored by night, with magical moonlit kayaking expeditions. Eccles Hotel, located on the beautiful Beara Peninsula, is a perfect spot to plan your stay around. Kenmare is a gourmet’s delight; and Bantry has just been voted Ireland’s best kept town. For music, try Levi’s Corner House in Ballydehob; De Barra’s in Clonakilty; and Connolly’s of Leap (on the road to Skibereen).

For more details about planning your trip around Ireland, go to www.discoverireland.ie