BALLYCOTTON LIGHTHOUSE

Did you know that the Sirius was the first vessel to cross the Atlantic under power of steam in 1838? Just nine years later, the jubilation of that milestone was soured when the ship hit Smith’s Rock during dense fog, to the southwest of Ballycotton. By the time the captain attempted to bring the ship into Ballycotton harbor, it was a wreck. Inspired by this disaster, the lighthouse was built, its beam shining across the water from 1851. Only accessible by boat from Capel Island, make sure to greet the resident goats before climbing the stairs to share the Celtic Sea views from the red lantern balcony.

Raise a glass of whiskey at The Jameson Experience before dining out at the Pier 26 Seafood Restaurant in Ballycotton.