Nearly hidden in its own harbour,
this small port of Union Hall has always had a strong seafaring tradition and now
provides a safe shelter for its own active fishing fleet as well as
anchorage to pleasure boats, and calm water for skiing, diving and
canoeing.
The new causeway leading into the village creates a natural lagoon
and the sweep of homes and shops surrounding it lend a vision of
brightly coloured ribbons on the water's surface.
A left turn off the causeway leads to Keelbeg Pier. Depending on the
season, angling and deep-sea fishing are popular and many return year
after year to enjoy the bounty of the sport. Boat hire for visiting some
of the off shore Islands is available locally, and the entire village
and surrounds offer choice for a leisurely stroll or a serious hike.
Union Hall is a remarkably Irish village with its roots steeped in
history. Archaeological remains dot the area. Castle ruins and forts can
be searched out, and a Holy Well dedicated to St. Brigid remains a
yearly pilgrimage made by many devotees on the first day of February.
Drombeg Stone Circle is only a short distance from Glandore.
In latter times the village had its share of admirers, and in the
1700's was lauded by the great patriot dean of Ireland, Jonathan
Swift. More recently it was chosen by the director / producer Lord David
Puttnam as the venue for one of his latest films "War of The
Buttons."
There are two provision shops, a craft shop, a knitwear shop, a
bureau de change / post office, numerous B&B's and an
excellent hostel built in the old stone schoolhouse which also plays
host to Sunday evening Traditional music sessions featuring some of
Ireland's top talents, tapas and wine. Good craic and entertainment are
the norm at the local pubs and the Union Hall Festival is held yearly in
June, featuring games and water sports of all kinds, from serious racing
to outrageous tom-foolery.
Union Hall is just one hours drive from Cork taking the N71 you will be
driving through Innishannon, Ballinascarty, Clonakilty and
Rosscarbery. Union Hall is a very peaceful town in West Cork, a
great place to enjoy some walks such as a stroll along Tra Lan Beach
Walk and a one hour walk in Rineen Wood Walk. Enjoy the Beaches and
Coves in Union Hall such as Keelbeg Strand and The Cusheen out by the
Reen Pier, and the beach at Carrigillihy. While you are staying in Union
Hall why not enjoy a visit to Skibbereen and the beautiful area of Lough
Hyne, travel on to Castletownsend of Somerville and Ross
history, and on to the seaside town of Baltimore for some Whale
and Dolphin watching and the lovely Ballydehob. Likewise, a drive
into Bantry town is just 40 minutes from Union Hall, where you can enjoy
some shopping and a visit to Bantry House afterwards, or take in some of
the wonderful walks in Bantry and its surrounding areas including the
Sheep's Head Peninsula walk, the Knocknaveagh and Vaughan's Pass
walk starting from Bantry town square and the Abbey and Rope Walk
Loop. Union Hall offers lots of water based activities such as
Kayaking, and Sailing.
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