North Cork is one of those areas that we too often fly through en route to somewhere else – Cork city, perhaps, or the holiday hotspots of West Cork - without pausing to think what we may be missing. For it’s a lovely unspoilt place of prosperous rolling farmland, off the beaten tourist track and all the better for that.
The fine market town of Fermoy on the fabled River Blackwater, famous for its salmon, trout and coarse fishing, is its crossroads, and makes a perfect base for exploring the many activities and attractions of the area (and indeed the whole Munster region).
And here, near the northern entrance to the town and set back from the road on a spacious corner site, you will find Sean and Mary Lomasney’s handsome 19th century cut stone house, offering the perfect place to stay.
It’s a lovely house, quiet and restful, with very comfortable accommodation in spacious, elegantly furnished rooms and, on the ground floor, an impressive drawing room and library with an open fire where guests can relax.
A good breakfast including home baked breads and local Araglen Valley trout, from nearby Kilworth, will set you up for the day’s activities – the lovely Barnane walk beside the Blackwater perhaps, or the gentle climb up Corrin Hill where the views are spectacular in fine weather. There are masses of things to do and visit in the area and Sean and Mary love nothing better than directing guests to the places that will interest them, so they'll enjoy their stay to the full.
Although dinner is not offered, the town centre is just a few minutes' walk and there are several restaurants to choose from - and the local hotel is well known for doing 'a good steak'.
Not surprisingly, Abbeyville House has a lot of returning guests and is very popular with business visitors to the area, so reservations are strongly advised.
