Description
Schull attracts the amphibious-type: meaning those people who can live at sea. It is a place that revolves around sailing. And windsurfing. And kayaking. Or a bit of scuba. Or ferrying to Cape Clear or Sherkin. Getting in the water is essential here to experiencing what this village is about. It attracts a lot of English and Irish folks on holiday who already know this.
What to See and Do
Sign up the kids for Junior Sailing Courses, running from late June through August.
Visit Schull Country Market, every Sunday 10am - 2pm in Schull - check the website for latest information (www.schullmarket.com)
Visit the Heron Gallery for a unique and eclectic selection of arts and crafts. Or Rick McGroaty gallery for fine art paintings. Shop for beautiful linen, hemp, and wool creations at Pebbles. I found striking sweater designs here by Fisherman Out of Ireland, She, and Joan Millar.
Where to Eat and Drink
The Roaring Water Health Store is the local organic market. West Cork Gourmet Store is an ideal place to sit and have a coffee – it feels like the West Village of New York City. Choose a bottle of wine and some fresh cheese and baked goods to take with. The New Haven Restaurant features French-inspired dishes and takeaway pizzas. Newman’s West is a café and wine bar that specializes in fine seafood. Gwen’s Chocolates was my favorite find in Schull - taste mouth-watering bonbons in subtle flavors created by Gwen, a French chocolatier. Open for just 1 ½ years, Gwen’s has already been awarded Best of Ireland 2007 by The Bridgestone. He also creates brownies, cookies, and handmade cakes.
Where to Sleep
The Bunratty Inn is right along the waterfront. The Harbour View Hotel boasts a view and four star accommodations. There are also many B&Bs in the hillside with sea views.
How to get there
By car:
From Bantry, take N71 south to Ballydehob, transfer to R592 west to Schull.
From Skibbereen, take N71 west to Ballydehob, transfer to R592 west to Schull.
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. Fabric Art Exhibition in early June. Schull Sea Angling Club competitions throughout the summer. Schull Triathlon second week in June. Junior Sailing Courses begin at end of June and run until end of August. Fastnet International Schools Regatta third week in July. Schull Agricultural Show in late July. Calves Week Sailing Regatta and Festival in early August. Schull Championship Rowing Regatta in mid-August. Art in Schull in mid-August.
Written by Liz O'Malley - Summer of Travel 2007