Staycations Ireland: #InThePynck at Blindgate House Kinsale
BLINDGATE House above the thriving seaside town of Kinsale on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way with its bright and modern interiors around 11 guestrooms provided the perfect summer staycation bolt-hole, and we are #InThePynck to reveal all it and indeed Kinsale itself has to offer.
Opening its doors since 2000 has been Maeve Coakley, scion of the former Coakley’s Atlantic Hotel with a warm welcome to the light and airy, purpose-built guesthouse, its hilltop location a short walk from Kinsale Town a welcome break away from all that is surprisingly on offer. There are no late-night revellers here in its quiet residential setting, no heavy traffic passing by its doors but all that and more in the way of food along with hopeful plans for post-pandemic festivals and music is just a short downhill walk away.
“We are getting back into it after being closed for so long,” said Maeve Coakley about the long months of being closed due to the pandemic. “If the season extends and people are travelling this year we might go into December.”
The season at Blindgate House extends from March to October and with so much to see and do in Kinsale, it is well worth keeping in touch with the guesthouse on the chance the season extends further. Nearby, there is golfing, fishing, sailing and horse riding for the outdoor enthusiasts while the town itself offers everything in arts and culture. The contemporary designed Blindgate House filled with antique pieces from the former family hotel takes its name for a long-gone gate to the historic walled town.
“I love meeting people and love the meeting and greeting,” said Maeve. “It is great to see people again.”
#InThePynck with what’s on and where to go in Kinsale:
Tour historic Kinsale by land and sea with walking tours, the Kinsale Harbour Cruise and factually fun Ghost Tour. Although restrictions have eased some attractions haven’t reopened yet so check availability.
Foodies on a budget will enjoy The White House in the heart of Kinsale for the fresh seafood and fish and locally sourced poultry and beef. The Blue Haven Newport Lounge and Fish Market Bistro offers a wide selection of deliciously curated, affordable dishes.
Kinsale Mead Co, the first of its kind in Ireland in 200 years to distil its own ‘honey wines’ just above Kinsale offers a variety of flavours and a rich history.
Boland’s Crafts & Gifts for shopping is part tourist kitsch, part luxury clothing and jewellery purveyor and well worth a visit for everyone on your gift list.
Handcrafted in Kinsale for generations, Kinsale Silver is a treasure trove of a workshop and showroom offering beautifully designed and executed silver along with some gold.
Don’t miss the Kinsale Farmers Market every Wednesday and be sure to arrive early for up to 30 stalls featuring fresh produce, tapas, original fashions and handcrafted jewellery.
See Kinsale on foot for best views along narrow winding streets and hilly terrain.
Tags: Blindgate House #visitkinsale #InThePynck
Image credits: Blindgate House, Kinsale Mead Co