WITH spectacular seaside views and incredible walking trails - it's no surprise that Ballycotton is a popular spot for locals and tourists every year.
And the town is hosting an exciting BBQ bonanza this summer to mark the end of the summer season.
Ballycotton is a small bustling fishing village in Co Cork - and it can be found just 30 minutes east from Cork city centre.
The wonderful village boasts a hilly fishing port, which offers fantastic views of a boat filled harbour and a steep island in the distance where the stunning lighthouse stands.
The Ballycotton Lighthouse dates back as far as 1851, and was constructed by George Halpin who was responsible for the building of almost 60 Lighthouses in the first half of the 1800s.
Woman, 28, found dead in Cork flat was strangled by man she knew, Gardai believe
For over 50 years, lightkeepers would live inside the building with their families and their children would be rowed across to the village to go to school.
The magnificent lighthouse can only be reached by boat - and Ballycotton Sea Adventures offers visitors a spectacular boat tour of the building.
The journey from Ballycotton Pier to the lighthouse takes around 15 minutes each way - and the tour of the building takes approximately 1 hour.
Tour guides will tell stories and give a detailed history of the ancient building.
An adult's ticket for the lighthouse boat tour costs €27 and a children's tickets is priced at €16.
And for those who might not be interested in a boat journey - Ballycotton also boats the most beautiful walking trail.
The Atlantic Coastal cliff walk from Ballycotton to Ballytrasna is a part of the East Cork Way - and it's well worth the experience.
The incredible cliff walk is rich in wildlife and visitors might even spot some rare bird species along the way.
Ballycotton is known to host birds such as the Black Night Heron, Cory's Shearwater and Red Backed Shrike.
Tributes flood in after popular GAA player Paddy Hartnett dies in car crash
So, bird lovers are sure to love this bird watchers paradise.
The cliff walk has some magnificent contrasting views, with farmlands and meadows on one side and the Atlantic Ocean sea views on the other.
The single pathway can be quiet narrow in some places with lots of styles and steps.
Visitors have been warned that bikes and pushchairs are not suitable for this trail.
SUMMER BBQ
And the say goodbye to the glorious summer season, Ballycotton will host a special sizzling BBQ at Sea Church.
The exciting family day out will take place on Tuesday August 29 with a night of fun and live music in store.
The fantastic East Cork venue will host Eagles tribute act Dezperadowho, who will play all the hits of the famous American rockers inside the fabulous church.
And prior to the gig, visitors can enjoy a mouth-watering BBQ on the terrace at Sea Church with a range of meats, seafood, salads and vegetarian options to suit all tastes.
The summer event will mark the end of "Barbeque Tuesday's" at Sea Church, which began back on July 4.
Crowds have been flocking to Ballycotton ever since the wholesome tradition emerged this summer.
Bands such as The Riptide Movement and Slippery When Wet even took the the stage over the summer for some super live entertainment.
And the team at Sea Church is already planning a busy Autumn with the Ballycotton Comedy Festival taking place on September 29th and 30th this year.
WHERE TO STAY
And if you want to take in all these beautiful sights and experience the family fun in Sea Church, why not spend a couple of nights?
A nights stay in the incredible cliff side Bayview Hotel will cost just €100.
The stunning hotel boats fantastic views of the sea side and the luxurious rooms are ideal for a family visit.
The Garryvoe is another gorgeous option when it comes to accomodation.
For just €160 per night, guests can enjoy scenes looking directly over Ballycotton Bay, spacious rooms and delicious breakfast.
