We are headed to Ireland next summer (2007), but it is never too early to start dreaming/planning. We are thinking of County Cork as a base, in part because of family history and, in part, because of an inspiring article in the most recent issue of Saveur Magazine. Cork is becoming a real destination for foodies that are inttrigued by the Slow Food movement/organically grown produce, local cheeses and just generally great eats- and thats us!

Have any of the Fodor's community had experience of a County Cork cottage rental or other long-stay alternative? We tend to rent a car and use one base per week of traveling. (We will be in Dublin for a week, too, but thats another post.)

ttt

For Cork look at www.cork-guide.ie
for rentals www.holiday-rentals.com/ireland
for Dublin www.visitdublin.com
for Ireland www.goireland.ie
Happy planning.

Thank you, CU, will be doing the homework. Now, any personal recommendations out there?

I stayed in a B&B in Baltimore and loved the area. There are "holiday homes" there that can be rented. I also liked the area around Goleen and Glengariff and Bantry.

Kinsale -- gourmet capital and some lovely B&Bs. I think the one we stayed in (which we loved) was the Presbytery.

Thnak you all very much-we have enough to get started now.

Check out www.irishvactionrental.com for self catering vacation rentals in Cork

Thank you, Sparky, will do!