Local Attractions
Dún Na Séad Castle
Dún na Séad Castle was built in 1215 by an Anglo Norman, Sleynie. It become the chief residence of the O’Driscoll clan for 300 years and was the centre of administration for their trading and piratical activities. In 1631 the castle narrowly escaped attack by a band of Algerian pirates, who landed in Baltimore and took 107 captives to a life of slavery in North Africa. In 1649 it became a garrison for Cromwellian troops, after which it declined into a state of ruin.
Inish Beg Gardens
Located in beautiful West County Cork, the Inish Beg Estate comprises 40 hectares. A large part of the estate is birdsong-filled woodlands which are sympathetically managed and include exceptional tree ferns, bamboo, several ponds, bird hides and carriage drives. The estate also includes green fields that sweep down to the Ilen Estuary, where sheep and ponies graze.
The remaining space houses buildings, a walled garden with glass house and fruit cages, a sunken garden with a fountain, a cherry drive, orchard, daffodil-lined avenue and two woodland gardens. The gardens are part of the West Cork Garden Trail and feature in the book “100 Best Gardens in Ireland” (2011).
Glebe Gardens
Located in Baltimore, County Cork, the Garden at Glebe is composed of different areas, each with its own special function and beauty. The practical yet pretty Potager contrasts with the slightly more formal Flower Garden, the boundary between the two being the quirky Waved Hedge. The natural abundance of the Meadow is reached via the curving grace of the Harold-Barry Walk, which passes behind the Tunnels and the Henhouse. There is so much more to enjoy and explore.
