Cork city has a population of around 140,000 people. It’s the second City of the Irish Republic. The name Cork comes from the Irish word “Corcaigh” which means marsh - the city is built on an island on the River Lee, close to Cork Harbour. It was founded in A.D. 650 by St. Finbar.

Cork County is known as “Rebel County”. Michael Collins a man widely regarded as the Ireland’s most charismatic political leader was born in Clonakilty, County Cork. During the Anglo-Irish war he played a vital part in co-ordinating the IRA`s military campaign against the English. He then went on to become a key political figure in the battle for Irish Independence from the British. In 1922, Collins was appointed Chairman and Minister of Finance of the provisional government, which was responsible for setting up the Irish Free State (the 26 county Republic).

Nowadays Cork is a lively city with a buzzing nightlife, large student population and plenty of new restaurants, shops and bars and clubs. The surrounding countryside is stunning. West of Cork is a vast territory or undiscovered landscape that’s completely unspoilt. You’ll find plenty of small Irish villages and resorts here. Most are fairly unsophisticated but always very lively, friendly and welcoming to visitors. Cork people (with their funny accents) have a great sense of humour and are always up for a good night out.