Cork, Ireland

The weather gods were not that kind to us in Cork. Grabbed this donut before heading down to the city.

We stayed at Park Kenmare for one night, although we had planned on two. The reason is that Cork is sprawling. It was lovely to stay there for a night, see the area’s beauty, and eat at the hotel, but it is an hour and a half drive from the center of Cork City. We also love calling in an audible. We stopped by this castle on the way down; very run-down but beautiful property.

The following day, we drove to the city of Cork and stayed at Hayfield Manor, where we could easily walk to town. The hotel is a stone’s throw from the University where the Lewis Glucksman Museum is.

The trees here are old and just beautiful.

The installation was not as interesting as the architecture of the building that was done by O’Donnell and Tuomey, an award-winning firm—one piece from the installation.

We strolled through town to the English Market, which has sold wares since 1788. The cost of goods such as chicken is relatively low compared to home. We were all blown away by the price of produce.

We had a few oysters before lunch that were on the top floor of the English Market. The place was packed, and the menu was classic, with beef pies and chowder.

That evening, we had dinner at Paradiso, a 20-year-old vegetarian restaurant—one of our best meals. Creative and full of flavor, they paired with natural wines. I lost the menu, but I did get the cookbook!

This stunning tree sits in front of the hotel. Last pic, off to Dublin the next day.