Where has the time gone? We’re already halfway through summer! The back-to-school advertising has begun, people are starting to talk about getting back to routine. Dare we say, signs of autumn are starting to appear.
If you haven’t yet had a breakaway or sorted out a holiday, don’t panic! There is still time! Perhaps you would just like a little pick-me up before September comes—a pause, a reset of sorts? We may be a tad biased but our boutique hotel, conveniently located in the heart of the Rebel City, could be just what you’re looking for. We are within walking distance of all public transport links and the city’s top attractions as well as offering newly refurbished rooms, a brand new restaurant overlooking Cork City’s only waterfall and a multi-award-winning cocktail bar– what more could you want?
Allow us to offer you some enlightenment on why a late summer getaway here is just what you’re looking for:
Blarney Castle
Yes, it’s one of Ireland’s top visitor attractions so what better time to visit than in the final days of summer when the crowds are thinning out and you can ramble peacefully around the 600-year old castle battlements, admiring the stunning North Cork countryside and of course, kissing the famous stone itself? Even if heights aren’t your thing, fear not! Lose yourself in 60 acres of majestic gardens with lake walks, arboretums, avenues, a fernery and even a poison garden. Finish your day by popping into the Blarney Woolen Mills for some truly unique gifts ranging from glassware and jewellery to the quintessential Aran sweater.
Cork on a Fork Festival: 14th-18th August
Known as the Food Capital of Ireland, combining both local favourites with world cuisine, foodies will be in for a uniquely flavoursome experience at this showcase of Cork’s culinary excellence. Expect five days of food, trails, events, talks, demos and best of all, the highly anticipated VQ Shared Table Dinner taking place on MacCurtain Street- yes, an open air meal taking place right down the middle of the street in front of our boutique hotel. Advance booking is essential.
Food Markets
Can’t make it to the Cork on a Fork Festival? Not to worry! A trip to Cork’s renowned English Market is an experience not to be missed. Dating back to 1788, it has survived everything life has thrown at it and is a popular spot with both locals and tourists alike. Alternatively, a refreshing walk down to the Marina Market will reward you with over 35 delicious food and drink vendors including Korean fried chicken, wood-fired pizza and Lebanese falafel! Better still- it’s open daily, is dog friendly and runs an ever-changing programme of events such as a book and craft fair the last weekend of August.
Kinsale
A popular hotspot during the summer months, Ireland’s Riviera is an easy and fun day-trip from Hotel Isaacs, being just a leisurely 40 minute drive (or hop on the regular bus). Whether you’re taking in the history of one of the town’s two forts, engaging in a walking tour, exploring its history in the museum, soaking up some rays on its cute and sheltered beach or simply meandering the insanely picturesque streets, the postcard-perfect town of Kinsale is one place worth visiting as the summer crowds start to dwindle.
City Strolls
Of course, you don’t have to leave the Rebel City to get a good walk. Cork City is super accessible on foot with walks catering to all ages and abilities. From gentle strolls along the banks of the Lee that lead to the serene grounds of Fitzgerald’s Park (great coffee shop in the museum there too) to the more cardio-inducing climb up Patrick’s Hill for some breathtaking views of the city or a more lengthy walk down to Blackrock Castle Observatory and its views of Cork harbour, our friendly receptionists will be happy to advise you on some of their favourite trails.
The Spike Island Literary Festival: 23rd-25th August:
A visit to Spike Island is always worth checking out with its 1300 years of history to explore. Ireland’s Alcatraz, it was once the largest convict depot in the world. However, literary enthusiasts will especially appreciate this unique festival centred around the theme of crime-writing. A rare opportunity to get up close and personal with the authors and immerse yourself in a world of suspense, mystery and intrigue-pretty much like the island itself.
Cobh
Less than 30 minutes from Hotel Isaacs (accessible by train and bus too), the lively port town of Cobh, famous for being the last port of call for the doomed Titanic liner is always worth a visit. A busy cruise ship terminal, the town boasts multiple visitor attractions from the Titanic Experience, the Cobh Heritage Museum (Cobh was the main port of embarkation for the mass immigration of the 19th century) and of course, the famous St Colman’s Cathedral. Time your visit carefully and you might even get to hear Ireland’s largest carillon being played.
Cork Burlesque Festival: 23rd-25th August
Here in Cork, we like to push the boundaries from time-to-time and what better way than with a glamorous weekend at its infamous Burlesque Festival. Taking place at the intimate Cork Ats Theatre, expect feathers, sequins and all things glitz and glam at this festival with a difference.
Art
Yes, it’s Ireland and we cannot always expect the weather to be perfect, so what better way to shelter from those summer showers than in an atmospheric art gallery? Make sure you check out the city’s main art gallery – The Crawford. Due to close for a huge redevelopment this autumn, this is the perfect chance to catch its final exhibits including its famous Canova casts. Don’t forget, they open late on Thursdays with free evening tours taking place at 6:30pm and on Sundays at 2pm.
Woodland experiences
For those that want to get up close and personal with nature, Cork City has an abundance of woodlands and forests within 30 minutes of our fair city. Our personal favourite is Farran Woods, with its own resident herd of deer. We especially love the tree-top ziplining experience too, but beware, it’s not for the faint-hearted.
