Description
The village name is pronounced "Lepp," not "Leep." It comes from the Irish name meaning "O'Donovan's Leap;" it describes the way a chieftain named O'Donovan escaped pursuing English soldiers by leaping across a ravine in the village.
What to See and Do
Shop at Ine Anish for pretty home goods. Find unique gifts for the friends back home at Aros and The Angel.
Visit Cononagh village, on the N71 road Rosscarbery. Browse in Ovne Antique Stoves; though a stove is not something you can pack into your carry-on and take home, they are interesting to look at. Have a drink in the cute Beehive Bar, then take a stroll in through the trees in Dromillihy Forest Park.
Connolly's of Leap is a well known rock music venue. Leap Inn also has live music.
Where to Eat and Drink
The Horseshoe Café serves tea and scones. Or for a full meal, head to Kiksaw's restaurant. The New Inn Bar and the Well Pub are two spots to get a drink.
Where to Sleep
The Wayward B&B on the top of the hill. The Leap Inn is another option.
How to get there
By car:
From Rosscarbery, take the N71 west to Leap.
From Skibbereen, take the N71 east to Leap.
By bus:
See www.buseireann.ie website for all current travel details and restrictions.
When to go
April through October, when the days are longer and the sun more likely to show.
Written by Liz O'Malley - Summer of Travel 2007