Now that the sun has made its appearance and the summer is finally here-it’s the perfect time to pack up the picnic basket and explore the beautiful Irish countryside.

You don’t have to venture too far either, with there being plenty of gorgeous spots to visit in sunny Cork.

Here are some Ó Crualaoí favourites:

Farran Woods

Farran Woods is an attractive park that has everything you need to have a great picnic!
Amidst the diverse range of plants and shrubbery, there are two woodland walks to explore. Wander past the grazing deer and see the friendly ducks, or venture further in to the forest and pay the Iniscarra Dam and Iniscarra Lake a visit.
Farran Woods also have Zipit -a high wire forest adventure park that’s perfect for adrenalin junkies. That’s one way to tire the kids out!

Ballycotton Cliff Walk

This ambient cliff walk has an abundance of places to picnic. Take in the panoramic views consisting of both ocean and meadow and enjoy this tranquil seaside surrounding.
Keep the kids entertained by heading to Conger Beach. You can also see the Lifeboat station or take part in a vast array of water sports-such as sailing and wind surfing. There are also over 300 species of birds in the area, if birdwatching is your thing.

Doneraile Park

This park is pristinely landscaped in ‘Capability Brown’ style, with mature deciduous tree, restored water features and roaming herds of deer. There are plenty of things to do here; such as picnicking in the pristine and tranquil gardens. There is also a vintage tearoom that has tearoom treats such as scones, cakes and sandwiches. There is also a great playground for the kids.

Fota Gardens

The breathtaking Fota Gardens and Arboretum showcase several species of plants and trees. The perfectly manicured gardens are landscaped to perfection and feature several prime picnic spots. You can also visit Fota House. This 19th century work of architectural art features a beautiful neoclassical interior that is now home to Bakestone Café. It’s reassuring to know that you have somewhere to go if you run out of picnic goodies!

Mizen Head

Head further afield to Ireland’s most south westerly point-Mizen Head. There’s lots to do in the local area, such as archery, water sports and cycle tours. The surrounding areas of Schull and Barleycove also have lots of picture perfect picnic places.
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We have plenty of inspiration on where to have your picnic, the question now is; what should you pack in your picnic basket?

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A picnic isn’t a picnic without…

Fresh Bread

From Parisienne bread sticks to spelt, we have a wide selection of freshly baked breads at our bakery.

Freshly Prepared Salads

Choose from family favourites such as Curried Rice, Cous Cous, Greek Salad, all of which are freshly prepared in our kitchen daily and available at our deli. We have a huge variety of freshly prepared salads to ensure you’re getting some of your 5 a day and they taste nice too!

Sliced Cooked Meats

It wouldn’t be a picnic without some delicious cold meat slices to fill your rolls and sandwiches with. We have a wide selection of meats to choose from in Ó Crualaoí stores.

Who Wants Dessert?

Round off your picnic with some tempting treats such as our tasty Baileys Cheescake, delicious Banoffi Pie or try a yummy chocolate fudge tray bake.
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We also have delicious homemade quiches-a picnic classic and plenty of sides such as coleslaw, potato salad and nutritious freshly made salads in all our stores. And if you’re stuck for time, we can even make your sandwiches and rolls for you at any of our delis.

Wherever you decide to put down your picnic blanket, we hope your basket is full of tasty Ó Crualaoí’s treats. From farm to fork, you’re guaranteed full traceability on all your food.

You’ll taste the difference!