Kinsale

Considered a Mecca among wine and beer lovers as well as the gastronomy connoisseurs, the small medieval Kinsale is usually regarded as the Irish fine food capital. Along its narrow streets paved with Norman, Spanish and English influences this famous town proudly accommodates more than 50 places to eat aside from the highly spirited traditional pubs. Once the site of a battle which changed old Éire's history, Kinsale is nowadays home to one of the most eccentric and appreciated food festivals in Europe.

An Appetite for Reputation

The fine food capital Kinsale is located in Cork county in the Munster province, at a 30 minutes drive distance from Cork city. The small port town which satisfies demanding appetites lies on the South coast, at the mouth of the River Bandon and has a population of about 2300 people. With more than 50 restaurants out of which 12 are inscribed on the fine dining list, Kinsale guarantees quality, comfort, ambiance and spoiling of the taste buds. Put in the difficulty of ordering in one of Kinsale's renown restaurants, remember that sea food is considered a signature dish in this town.

Aside from the elegant dining places, the medieval Kinsale is home to several Irish pubs. Distinctive from ones in other countries, the traditional attractions in Georgian and Victorian architecture are seen as a communal living room meant for both adults and children.

A Turning Point for Irish History

Before earning its top chef reputation, the medieval town has served as a garrison and a port for over 300 years. The Kinsale natural harbor was famed as one of the most important ones during the 15th , 16th and 17th century. Caught between the Spanish and the British, Kinsale was the site of a major battle between these two countries. Fighting along with the Spanish, the Irish troops have faced a sore defeat which forced many of the country's aristocrats to face exile in what is known as the ''Flight of the Earls''.

Tea Party in Wonderland

The Kinsale Gourmet Festival held yearly during the month of October is the event which has brought the city even more international fame. One of the European highlights, this celebration of taste is a nonconformist one because of its association to the Mad Hatter's Tea Party from the 1865 novel Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. Joining this colorful event, you will get to taste the traditional with Alice herself, sip wine with the Mad Hatter or try new recipes along with the Queen of Hearts.

Aside from the fine food festival, visiting Kinsale you can discover the majestic Desdemond Castle, the Giles Norman gallery with expressive black and white photography or the protective Charles Fort and James Fort at the harbor's entrance.

Remember the history of the port which faced defeat battling against the British, appreciate the traditional of a medieval town and allow Kinsale to be your ''wonderland'' as you taste its finest dishes.