The very first stop we made on our Wild Atlantic Way trip was the stunning Old Head of Kinsale! Sprawling out into the Atlantic Ocean the jagged edges of Ireland are clearly defined here, and really and truly remind you of what a beautiful island we live on!
Here at OnTheQT we are well aware that the best way to discover an area is by meeting with a local; we were lucky enough to meet with Jerome who grew up on the Old Head of Kinsale, and kindly shared some of his vast amount of knowledge with us! Jerome studied Archaeology and Celtic Civilisation at UCC, and completed a masters in local history, as well as continuously gathering knowledge from elderly neighbours… it is safe to say he is well informed about the area!
Our grand tour began at the signal tower, where on a clear day you can see as far as the Mangerton mountains! Although there was a heavy mist the morning we were there, Jerome pointed out the different points all around us….it really is a 360 degree viewing point! The signal tower is also home to artefacts from the Lusitania – a transatlantic liner that sunk off the Old Head in 1915 killing 1,200 passengers and crew!
We then walked down onto the Old Head where Jerome shared with us the old Irish names and explanations for different areas, told us stories about its past whilst pointing out the flora and fauna unique to the area! Jerome has also spent 28 years as a fisherman and so his wealth of knowledge doesn’t stop on the land! As we walked up to the upper viewing spots, it was fascinating to see the mist lift so slowly and watch the view come into vision!
It is such a wonderful place to go, sit down, relax and forget about the rest of the world for a while! Jerome also runs boat trips at Kinsale Harbour Cruises where I’m sure he will also share stories with you that paint a vivid picture of the past!
As we said our good byes and drove onto our next pit-stop, the surrounding scenery took our breath away.. such a beautiful area of the world! Enjoy your trip there x
