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 and Shearwater Country House B&B
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,
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.
Sightseeing
The area around Union Hall is well known for its hills, woodlands, rivers and islands. There are many small inlets and bays and secluded sandy beaches.
There is a Catholic church in the south of the village as well as a notable Church of Ireland church situated in mature grounds.
Union Hall (Irish: Bréantrá) is a small fishing village located in County Cork, Ireland, located on the west side of Glandore Harbour. Its nearest neighbour to the west is Castletownshend; to the east, Glandore Village. It is approximately 10 kilometers east of Skibbereen. The main source of employment is fishing and the pier has its own ice plant and fish processing factory run by Glenmar Shellfish Ltd.
Among its many tourist attractions are boat trips to view whales, dolphins and seals. Seals can be seen all year round, with dolphins and Fin Whales, Minke Whales and Humpback Whales present in summer months.
