The name Fota is derived from its Irish version meaning warm soil. Fota Island is host to Ireland's only wildlife park, a must for all the kids, big and small where the sight of emerald green pastures being grazed by giraffes, outhouses (even if they are well secured) housing wild cats and of course, Monkey Island, as well as the historical Fota House with its ornamental gardens and an 18-hole golf course.

A stone's throw to Cork itself, the real capital and host to festivals galore including the October Jazz festival, to enjoyable days spent shopping especially at the English market (recently graced by HRH no less), the Opera House and a huge choice of gourmet events beyond the city.