The very name conjures up an image of romance of the sea. This magnificent inlet has been the object of poem and song by many a fair waiting maiden and her lonely longing sailor boy. Likewise, it played host to more than one historical occasion. A French fleet set sail in 1796 with Wolfe Tone aboard to come to the aid of the United Irishmen’s Uprising. Gales at sea scattered the fleet and a mere handful of the original number limped into Bantry Bay. A continuing storm sent them packing home, bringing the expedition to total failure.

Image | Sunset Over Bantry Bay, County Cork | Robert Harding Photography