Description
A picturesque town set on Courtmacsherry Bay. The Irish Gaelic "Tigh Molaige" means "house of Molaga," and the town is named after the 7th century Franciscan Abbey, built by St. Molaga. A very pretty spot, great for a walk along the water to watch birds on the muddy banks.
What to See and Do
Wander the Franciscan Abbey and graveyard by the water. The friars who once lived here dedicated their lives to the strict rules of poverty and simplicity set out by St. Francis. A famous chalice was once stolen from this abbey, to turn up later on Clear Island. Visit the Church of the Nativity of Our Lady, a Romanesque building with a tower and stained glass windows designed by Harry Clarke in 1931. See the rare, mature plant species at the Castle Gardens, open July through August. These specimens have been meticulously collected by generations of the Travers family. The collection began when Col. R. Travers purchased the castle, town, and lands in 1820. See the magnificent mosaics at the Church of the Ascension. The River Ardigeen is ideal for fishing and bird watching. There are wooded hills beckoning and scenic walks with lots of tempting archaeological sites in the surrounding area.
Where to Eat and Drink
The Abbey Bar, Dillon's Bar and Café, or Grainne's Pub.
Where to Sleep
Not many options here. There are a couple B&Bs tucked up in the hillside by the Church of the Nativity of Our Lady. Also a caravan/camping park located 4 km from town; follow the signs.
How to get there
By car:
From Clonakilty, take the R600 west to Timoleague.
From Cork, take N71 south to Halfway, transfer to R607 south to Kinsale. Take R600 west to Timoleague.
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. Timoleague Harvest Festival the third week in August.
Written by Liz O' Malley - Summer of Travel 2007