The Seven Wonders of West Cork including Fernhill House Hotel in Clonakilty

21 August 2009

Fernhill House Hotel, a beautiful family run country house hotel based in Clonakilty in West Cork has put together a simple guide to the Seven Wonders of West Cork, the seventh wonder being a special mid week rate of €57 per person sharing including breakfast from Sunday to Wednesday until the end of September. All wonders are located within travelling distance to the hotel, the gateway to West Cork.

1) Clonakilty Town: Ireland's first fair trade town Clonakilty, is a picturesque seaside market town.  It is close to the birthplace of Michael Collins and there are plenty of shops, cafes, boutiques and restaurants to while away the day.

2) The Model Railway Village in Clonakilty is well worth a visit showing a miniaturised version of the West Cork Railway, with guided train tours around the town. Tickets start at €5.

3) West Cork Surf School: West Cork has many beaches on which to surf. It even has its own surf school based on Inchydoney beach.   A two hour lesson including wetsuits and surfboard costs €35.

4) Lisselan Gardens: Created in the 1800's Lisselan Gardens, a few miles from Clonakilty provides a wonderful experience for both children and adults. A garden quiz for children will keep them entertained and they will get a surprise at the end of it. Visitors can also golf and fish on the Lisselan Estate. A family ticket to explore the gardens costs €16.

5) Moonlit Adventure with Atlantic Sea Kayaking: About 30 minutes further west from Clonakilty is Skibbereen, where Atlantic Sea Kayaking is based. Open all year, they offer a variety of interesting trips. One that stands out is the moonlit adventure starting at dusk. It costs €45 per person and includes equipment.

6) The Mizen Head: Ireland's most south-westerly point is located five miles from Goleen. Aside from the magnificent scenery, there is an award winning maritime museum. Tickets start at €6.

7) Fernhill House Hotel: The seventh wonder has to be relaxing in the friendly surrounds of this recently refurbished hotel which is the perfect base to explore West Cork. The hotel is well known for delicious locally sourced gourmet dining, and head chef Dee Rettali's reputation has brought visitors from all parts of Ireland to the hotel.

Check out the newly updated website www.fernhillhousehotel.com for more details or call (023)8833258 -Editor's notes: More information on the Seven Wonders on the