East Cork is the Unsung Treasure of Ireland

The Paddocks Holiday Village is located in the heart of East Cork. Nestled away in the peaceful countryside, the village is only 5 minutes from Midleton town and just 20 minutes from Cork City, making it the perfect touring base to discover East Cork and the surrounding county.

Often referred to as the unsung treasure of Ireland, East Cork, offers a unique variety of attractions. Top of the list is Fota Wildlife Park, which has no less than 90 different species of animals, including giraffes and penguins. Hop on the Awacachi Tour Train and enjoy a guided tour of the park. A day trip to Trabolgan Holiday Centre is highly recommended where you can race down the water slide into the sub-tropical pool.

Visitors to the holiday village will find everything they need in the nearby bustling town of Midleton. The Market Green Shopping Centre has a variety of shops on offer from fashion to retail, as well as The Gate Multiplex. There is a fine selection of restaurants to choose from, including Finin’s & Raymond’s to mention but a few. Take a trip to Wallis’ Bar on a Tuesday night and enjoy some traditional Irish Music. A visit to the popular Farmers’ Market is a must on a Saturday morning and why not become a certified whiskey taster at the Jameson Heritage Centre.

The neighbouring villages of Midleton have much to entertain visitors to East Cork, from the distinguished Ballymaloe Cookery school to the family favourite Leahy’s Open Farm. The fishing village of Ballycotton, which overlooks the blue flag Garryvoe beach, has some enjoyable cliff walks with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. History buffs will find their appetite for knowledge satisfied by the areas many historical attractions including Barryscourt Castle, the Old Midleton Distillery and the Gothic revival Cathedral in Cobh

Sailing, golfing, horse riding & Quad biking are just some of the sporting thrills on offer in the area.

The quayside town of Cobh is just 15 minutes drive from the Paddocks and is situated on one of the three islands in Cork harbour. As the harbour is one of the safest & largest in the world, Cobh is a popular port of call for many cruise liners. Cobh was the last port of call for the famous Titanic. Visit the Heritage Centre to hear the story of emigration during the Irish famine up to the time of the great Liners in the 1950s. The Sirius Arts Centre provides lively entertainment including musical recitals & art exhibitions.

Youghal is another popular town in East Cork and only a short drive from the Paddocks Holiday Village. With more than 5 kilometres of sandy beach, this popular seaside town specializes in water sports. Follow the sign-posted Town Trial to see old abbeys and historical buildings, as well as the old clock tower. Families will find oodles of fun at Perks Entertainment Centre while the numerous seafood restaurants will keep hunger at bay.

With so much to find in the locality, guests of the Paddocks Holiday Village will have to agree that there really is a feast in the east of things to do!

Take a look at Ber’s Top Tips for further details.