All about Schull....

To enter a different world, just break your journey at the southwest

hinge-point of the N71 and stop in Ballydehob. From the east the

village suddenly appears snuggled in the embrace of the sheltering hill,

the colourful fables reflecting the morning sun. It is a place of peace

and beauty.

Before entering the town you'll view an inviting children's playground

on the left, shadowed by the elegant old railway viaduct with its 12

arches. Pedal boats plying their trade under escort from a stately swan

or wayward duck will catch your eye as you pass over the bridge.

From the walkway over the viaduct the estuary seems filled with

waders and wildfowl on the ebb tide. Also in view are the barrage

amenity walk and tennis/basketball courts, while over the hill to the

south you can find a horse-riding school. Many charming walks and

cycle routes touch the coastline in this area offering stunning views of

the islands and the distant Fastnet Rock lighthouse. In the waters

beyond there is good fishing from chartered boats, with a large variety

of fish including several types of shark being caught.

In Ballydehob town its most famous son has a public monument in his

honor as world wresting champion. A local pub still bears the name of

his celebrated throwing technique 'The Irish Whip'. From here and

from other bars the strains of traditional and folk music is heard

eveningtime, while others favor quiet chat and poetry recitals.

Ballydehob also has the reputation of nurturing the arts and is home to

several writers, artists, sculptors and craft workers in a variety of

media. The town boasts antique and craft shops, a book shop and

gallery. Neither is food neglected with internationally renowned

restaurants and cafes catering for pockets of varying depth and

multiple choice.

This charming gateway to the rugged and beautiful Mizen peninsula

should not be missed. The first-time traveler is invited to leave the

treadmill for a while and enjoy a quiet moment in these surroundings.

Being the half-way point between Cork and Killarney is another good

reason to stop.