We had done the tourist thing, and now we wanted to see beyond. So with Sean at the wheel, we set out with just an idea of where we wanted to go for a couple of days along the southeast coast of Ireland. In the car, I noted where we went and what we did. Then after our outings, when I had time, I made a little map of the highlights.

Our first stop, thanks to the tip from Francesca, was Cobh (pronounced Cove). On the way there, Keith and Sean got to explore a very un-tourist Belvelly Castle. There is a huge and beautiful cathedral in the town of Cobh, St. Colman's Cathedral. It sits up high in the Coastal town overlooking the water. 

View of just one part of St. Colman's Cathedral in Cobh

Inside center isle at St. Colman's Cathedral

Cobh is full of history, and tragedy. It was the last place the Titanic stopped before it's infamous voyage. It is also where the sinking of the Lustania took place on May 7, 1915. This statue is in honor of those who worked to rescue people and bury the dead.

We didn't want to rush, so we went at a comfortable pace, enjoying the journey. 

Taking a break in lovely Kinsale

Driving, not knowing what's next... a surprise not mentioned on any map. In Timoleague there is an old Friary founded in the 13-14th century that had been burned by the British in 1642. It is now, and has been for a very long time, a cemetery. Graves are on the outside of the walls, but also on the inside. We were quite fascinated by it. I would've thought it would feel creepy, but it didn't. We had just come from Charles Fort near Kinsale, and that felt much worse, even though it was very clean. It made me wonder about places and the history of the people.  

Sean was determined to find an authentic Irish pub, not focusing on Tourists. It was worth the pursuit. Annie May's Bar in Skibbereen had wonderful fish and chips and of course Guinness. It was family run and the people were so friendly! 

A few other places we visited while in Cork County were Midleton, getting there just in time for the last tour of the Jamison Whiskey factory. The tour guide was incredible! The whiskey good too :)

Dungarvan harbour

We ended our Irish adventure together in Dungarvan, eating dinner at a pub with old castle walls, and the ambience to match, with a good meal and drinks to celebrate.