Fuchsia Excellence
Awards
Excellence in Farm Diversification
- Tourism
For successful use of farm resources.
Sponsored by The Farmers Journal 
Winner:
Coolbawn Lodge, Skibbereen
This beef and dairy farm hosts both bed
and breakfast and self-catering accommodation. The latter
is an authentic West Cork farmhouse dating back to the
1850’s. It is traditional in character but loses
nothing in style or comfort as befits its three-star
rating. A wooded picnic area is located on farm allowing
one to take in the charming rural views whilst also
taking advantage of the home baking provided by Eileen
O’Driscoll. Home-made preserves are produced from
organic soft fruits grown in a polytunnel on farm, while
home-grown strawberries complement the breakfast plate.
Blackcurrants, gooseberries, rhubarb and grapes !!!
are also grown. Guests are invited to experience the
day to day running of the farm and view all activities.
Mairead Lavery, Farmers Journal, Eileen O'Driscoll,
Coolbawn Lodge, & Minister Joe Walsh
Other Nominees:
Springfield House, Rathbarry
Situated on a dairy farm near the pretty village of
Rathbarry, Springfield House capitalises on its location
with panoramic views of the ocean. Superior Bed and
Breakfast accommodation is provided by Maureen Callanan
in a sumptuous Georgian-style house. The high standards
of product and service quality on offer have been recognised
by the recent National Award of Excellence from CIE
Tours International.
Rosalithir, Rosscarbery
A keen appreciation of the local amenities on offer
as well as an emphasis on home and local produce are
evident in the bed and breakfast and self-catering accommodation
provided by Catherine O’Sullivan. A welcome pack
featuring local fuchsia brand products is available
for use by guests is a particularly novel feature in
the self-catering accommodation. The accommodation is
located beside the 35 acre working farm, which has been
in the family since 1892. Visitors are encouraged to
view the farm activities and in particular learn that
the farm milk is used in manufacture of local cheese.
Judging from the client commendations, this is extremely
popular and makes for a memorable visitor experience.
In 2002, Rosalithir was a recipient of the National
Award of Excellence from CIE Tours International.
Lochinver, Ballinadee
Strong commendations and an enduring popularity with
overseas visitors attest to the quality and standards
maintained by Helen Forde at Lochinver. Located on a
dairy farm, this Bed and Breakfast accommodation is
majestically sited overlooking the Bandon estuary. Visitors
are encouraged take farm walks and to view farm activities
especially the dairying, which supplies milk for local
cheese and butter production. Evening meals are served
and special diets are catered for. Again the emphasis
is on local produce with fuchsia produce predominant
in breakfast and evening meals.
Tir na Hilan, Castletownbere
Nestled in the Caha Mountains above Castletownbere,
Sean O’Sullivan provides self-catering accommodation.
Two houses are on offer, both of traditional design
and character in harmony with their location and surroundings.
The accommodation is located on an organic farm with
kitchen gardens and is recommended by IOFGA. The farm
also hosts part of the popular Beara Way walking and
cycling route. Riding ponies complete the picture.
