Landmark Cork lighthouse opens to the public
By Eoin English
A landmark lighthouse built on an Island off East Cork in the mid 1800s is set to open for its first public tours tomorrow.
The new Ballycotton Island Lighthouse Tours tourism initiative was launched in the scenic fishing village this morning.
The brainchild of Ballymaloe Relish founder, Yasmine Hyde, the venture was allocated €90,000 in funding from South and East Cork Area Development (SECAD), and has been backed by the Commission of Irish Lights.
It will see a 12-passenger ferry boat sailing from Ballycotton pier out to the island, where visitors will disembark for guided tours of the island and lighthouse structure.
Visitors will also be able to climb the lighthouse tower to enjoy stunning views of Ballycotton Bay.
“SECAD is delighted to be able to provide such vital funding for Ballycotton Island Tours.
This project will provide a unique excursion opportunity for locals and tourists alike and will further showcase the exquisitely beautiful landscape of South and East Cork,” said Ryan Howard, CEO SECAD.
