Some say West Cork is one of the most beautiful places on the Emerald Isle. The scenery, the coastline, the food and the warm welcome are just some of the reasons people are drawn to it.
The local towns are quintessentially Irish with Skibbereen the most southern. Steeped in history, Skibb is recorded as one of the areas most affected by the Famine and the graveyard in nearby Abbeystrewry marks the burial site of around 10,000 victims of the blight.
But not only do the people of Skibbereen embrace their heritage, they welcome the future. And what better way to start a new day than with a full Irish breakfast?
But what makes a breakfast fully Irish? Traditionally a fry-up consisting of bacon, sausages, black and white pudding, eggs, beans, tomatoes, mushrooms and potato bread, it can be eaten any time and should last you all day if you clean your plate.
Here are the top five places in Skibbereen to rise to the challenge of a full Irish and soak up the atmosphere of this great little town.
5. Annie May’s
Eat like a local at Annie Mays! Tuck into a legendary full Irish or treat yourself to some locally sourced salmon and poached eggs. Wash it down with a pot of tea and you’re all set for the day.
A family run business for 35 years, this B&B has recently been refurbished with a new outdoor seating area. You are welcome to eat in the restaurant or bar area, where you are sure to meet some colourful characters only found in Skibb.
With good food, a well-stocked bar, mighty craic, live music, and reasonably priced bedrooms, you might find yourself staying at Annie Mays well beyond breakfast.
Address: 11 Bridge St, Marsh, Skibbereen, Co. Cork, P81 RV07, Ireland
4. Kennedy Restaurant, The West Cork Hotel
For a celebration brekkie, family gathering or corporate event, Kennedy Restaurant in The West Cork Hotel is an ideal meeting point. It serves a delicious breakfast until noon or 11.30am on Sunday and has an extensive menu to choose from.
The hotel itself provides the perfect atmosphere to start any day with its charming décor and relaxed pace. Friendly staff are more than happy to help so you will feel right at home.
And if you over-do it on the food, why not walk it off along the river or for the more adventurous traveller, head to one of the many breathtaking sites on the stunning Wild Atlantic Way. The full Irish is sure to keep you going!
Address: Ilen St, Skibbereen, Co. Cork, Ireland
3. The Church Restaurant
And on the seventh day God had a full Irish in Skibbereen!
Start your day right with a heavenly breakfast at The Church. Restored and converted into a restaurant in 2005 only to suffer a fire a year later this unique building is something special.
Hungry? Try tackling The Big Fellow Church brekkie feast. Or for the smaller appetite, tuck into the Little Monasteries plateful. Either way, you will leave feeling satisfied.
With locally sourced ingredients and super friendly staff, you will feel truly blessed after a morning at The Church.
Address: Marsh, Skibbereen, Co. Cork, P81 EE95, Ireland
2. Benedict’s Café
Instagram: tashydukelowIf you are less of a morning person, Benedict’s on North Street serves breakfast all day. Situated in the heart of Skibbereen, this family-run café has a great community feel and knocks up an impressive full Irish.
Where better to try eggs Benedicts than at Benedict’s? Served with a choice of crispy bacon or delicious Irish smoked salmon it will be a meal to remember.
This thriving little business also makes bespoke cakes for any occasion and is popular among locals on birthdays, communions and other special days. Personalized messages and special dietary options make each creation unique.
Address: P81 Y433, 48 North St, Gortnaclohy, Skibbereen, Co. Cork, P81 WF65, Ireland
1. An Chistin Beag
Described on Trip Advisor as serving “the best breakfast in Skibbereen, maybe even in West Cork,” An Chistin Beag is not to be missed on your Irish travels.
‘The Little Kitchen’ may be small but it makes up for its size with top quality food and great service. Noted for its black pudding potato cakes, this is where you want to start your day. Especially if you’re off on a hike or entering the Olympic games perhaps!
Food for the soul and friendly faces to warm your heart, An Chistin Beag is one spot you will want to visit again and again.
Address: 46 Bridge St, Marsh, Skibbereen, Co. Cork, Ireland
