COBH

A small bridge at a castle keep joins Great Island to the mainland. Five miles or so to the south of the island is the charming seaside town of Cobh (pronounced "Cove"). The residents may not know it but the shallow and long descent down to the sea front is reminiscent of the approach to Monte Carlo from the Grand Corniche. The similarity does not end there as the town is impressively built on a variety of different levels and facing south is bathed by the sun when it shines. The pastel coloured fronts of the buildings have a distinct Mediterranean feel and an attractive mix of Victorian and Flemish styles sweeping up steep forelands from the pleasant seafront area with its attractive seaside promenades. From the steep heights there are austere Victorian terraces overlooking the town and seafront.

Towering over the town is the majestic St. Coleman's Cathedral, a neo-Gothic style building that is impressively perched on the steep hillside with a winding road that brings you down to Pierce's Square. Close by is Scott's Square with its unusual and attractive memorial to the 1195 passengers who perished on the Lusitania, sank by a German torpedo in May 1915 off the coast, prompting the American entry to World War I. The inscription pays tribute to this and includes the legend "In the Cause of Lasting and Universal Peace".

Cobh harbour has a long maritime tradition going back as far as the Napoleonic wars and more recently a departure point for emigrants to America. Visits from trans-Atlantic vessels were common - the Titanic called here on its ill-fated maiden voyage and in later years, the QE2. The Urban District Council resides at the waterfront in an attractive towered building that reflects the sea-going tradition and a plaque commemorates "All Irish seafarers who have served this island nation".

Alternative access to Great Island is from Glenbrook on the west mainland (about five miles south of Cork) where a small car ferry will take you across the 300 yards of water for £2 single / £3 return and runs about every 15 minutes from Carrickaloe.