West Cork
Groups of friends love to go away together and an increasing trend within the 25-40 age group is activity breaks in Ireland. And Baltimore in West Cork is one of the centres of activity holidays in Ireland with its rich variety of maritime activities. Surprisingly, West Cork marine wild life has been compared to that of New Zealand and National Geographic Adventure magazine dubbed West Cork as the New Zealand of Europe. Over twenty species of whales pass through these waters every year. Sea kayaking is the fastest growing water sport in the world and the unspoilt coastline of West Cork suits it perfectly. The sheltered harbour in Baltimore is one of the safest around and kayakers can expect clear waters and lots of small islands to discover.
A great way to orientate yourself to the area is to take a short nullwork to the Baltimore Beacon. The unique signal tower sits proudly at the head of Baltimore harbour and from this vantage point potential kayakers can get some idea of the beauty of the coastline that they will soon be exploring. Baltimore itself is also worth some exploration before taking to the waves. Bushes is one of the oldest pubs in Baltimore and for many it is the social centre of the town. Thankfully everywhere is close together and it is only a short walk to Casey's Hotel. This family run establishment provides twenty comfortable rooms that are all equally priced. Energetic guests can even join in with set-dancing classes in the hotel.
Former British and Irish Kayaking champion Jim Kennedy runs Atlantic Sky Kayaking. Safety is paramount when kayaking in the sea and people of all experience levels are catered for. Kayakers can expect to stop off at ancient castles, sea caves and hopefully see an abundance of marine life such as seals, dolphins and even whales. One thing is for sure, kayaking is hungry work and after a day at sea it will definitely be time for a nice meal.
Rolf's Country House restaurant in Baltimore is a family-run business that offers great dining that is sure to satisfy even the hungriest of kayakers.
Part of the attraction of West Cork is the diverse range of marine wildlife that can be viewed from a kayak. Whale Watch West Cork offers boat trips around the coastline and the good news is that your kayak can be loaded onto the boat and once you get out to sea you can hop back in the kayak from a close up view of the marine life. Whale and even shark sightings are common but even if you are unlucky enough not to spot one, the abundance seals and sea birds will more than make up for the disappointment.
West Cork Prices
Aer Arann
Fares from €25 one way incl tax
www.aerarann.com
Failte Ireland
www.discoverireland.ie/southwest
021 4255100
Atlantic Sea Kayaking
www.atlanticseakayaking.com
+353 28 21058
*The price for a half-day kayak - 50euro p/p
*The price for a night time kayak - 45 euro p/p
*The price for the whale watching / Nature watching kayak:
90euro p/p.
Casey's of Baltimore, Hotel
Tel: 028 20197
Web: www.caseysofbaltimore.com
Weekend breaks 3 nights B&B only from €199.00
Rolf's Restaurant
Tel: 028 20289
Web: www.rolfsholidays.eu
Main course prices range from €17.00-€26.00
Bushes Bar
Tel: 028 20125
Web: www.bushesbar.com