Clonakilty is situated within the heartland of West Cork and is renowned for its beautiful streetscapes, colourful shop fronts and selection of fine hotels, restaurants, guesthouses, pubs and cafes. The narrow streets and lanes of the town open into elegant squares; a notable feature of the town is the 18th century Emmet Square, which is surrounded by some beautiful houses with impressive Georgian doorways. Walking along the narrow streets of the town one can see Harringtons Butchers, where the famous Clonakilty black pudding is still manufactured today to the original recipe that was first prepared in 1880. The colourful shop fronts and hanging baskets of flowers are striking as one strolls through the town. There are many historic buildings to be seen in the area such as the Post Office, which is housed in an old Presbyterian church. Also worthy of mention is the national Michael Collins Memorial Statue, which was unveiled on August 22nd 2002, in tribute to one of the greatest military and political leaders in Irish History. Not far from there, just off the main coastal road to Kinsale, is the restored site of an ancient fort called Lis na-gCon. Clonakilty is an ideal holiday destination and an ideal base from which to tour West Cork. It is an area flavoured with some of West Cork's most spectacular scenery. There are some fantastic beaches around the area, such as Red Strand, where one can see the famous Galley Head lighthouse. There are also many wonderful towns such ...

• published: 07 Sep 2006
• views: 28097
• author: kinsalecd