Day 1 - Arrive Cork
Cork is built on reclaimed marsh land and is still dominated by water - The River Lee divides the city in two. The word Cork comes from the Irish name “Corcach” which means “marsh.” The city’s origins lie early in the seventh century when St. Finbarr founded a small monastic community close to where Gilabbey Street now stands. The Vikings came to the city in the tenth century, and the Normans followed two centuries later. This may account for the distinctly European ambiance. Although a busy industrial city, it is also an important shopping centre. The principal streets are lined with fashion houses and department stores stocking quality Irish goods.
In the afternoon your driver will bring you on an orientation tour of the city. See St. Finbarre’s Cathedral, a splendid triple-spired example of French Gothic architecture, which stands where the saint established his monastic school circa 600AD. Much of the mediaeval core of the city is still intact and its colourful and dramatic past is reflected in its streets, architecture and port. You will also have the chance to play the famous Shandon Bells located in Corks Northside. Erected in 1722, Shandon, one of the city’s best known landmarks, stands on the site of an older church. The pepper pot top to the steeple is notable as is the fact that two sides of the town are in limestone and two are in sandstone. The tower contains the famous Shandon Bells, which visitors may ring and the view from the steeple (120 feet hight) is well worth the effort in getting to the top. Shandon Church also contains a collection of rare books.
You will overnight at the Ramada Hotel & Suites at the Blarney Golf Resort. The Ramada Hotel & suites at the Blarney Golf Resort is situated just 8 miles from Cork City. Built in the beautiful and tranquil Shournach Valley close to the historic town of Blarney, renowned worldwide for the Blarney Stone. The unique resort offers true luxury to both the leisure and corporate guest, with a PGA championship golf course. The Inniscarra Restaurant offers a fusion of local flavours with an Asian twist. Relax and unwind in the Sentosa Spa - an experience you'll not want to miss.
This evening, you will have the opportunity to play your first round of golf in Cork at the Blarney Golf Resort. Blarney Golf Resort is the brainchild of local Cork businessman, John Kelly and Dublin based Frank McCarthy-- creating an internationally acclaimed golf resort that would be a major addition to the golf and leisure infrastructure of County Cork. With the help of two time major winner, John Daly, they have provided golfers with a wonderful location and the spectacular views. A range of tees ensures that everyone, from the John Daly school of big hitters, to the more conservative casual player is well catered for.
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