SITUATED EIGHT MILES DOWN the Ilen river from Skibbereen, Baltimore has a permanent
population of just over two hundred, although it grows every summer with
visitors who cannot help but return and who are now very much a part of local life.
As you might well guess, fishing and the sea have always played an important part
in the history and economy of our home. Many of the ruined castles standing sentinel
on lonely headlands are the ancient homes of the piratical O Driscoll clan,
who once held sway over a thousand square miles of south-west Ireland.
Although the quiet harbour may resemble the Aegean during the summer, in winter
violent storms blast in from the Atlantic. We are protected from the worst of
them by Carbery s famed Hundred Isles, including Sherkin island and Cape Clear.
Because of its maritime tradition, Baltimore is well known as one of the best
places in the country for water-sports, including sailing, windsurfing and deep sea
diving – we ll even teach you how to do it!
Spring arrives earlier here than almost anywhere else in Ireland, owing to our
extreme southerly position and warming influence of the Gulf Stream. Sharp frosts
are rare, snow almost unheard of, and as you will see from nearby gardens many
shrubs grow well all year round and there is no month when you can t find a flower
somewhere for your enjoyment.
Local wildlife, including a number of rare birds, also enjoys our mild climate. Out
at sea, perhaps on the way to picnic on an uninhabited island, you ll often spot seals
sunning themselves on wave-washed rocks.
As you sit on the harbour wall watching the sun slip down, the screech of gulls
may herald the return of fishing trawlers and you might enjoy a stroll down to the
pier to bargain for your supper! Alternatively, enjoy a meal cooked for you with special
Baltimore flair in one of our friendly restaurants.
With so much to offer you, we re sure you ll enjoy a relaxing stay with us.