For those looking for a more laid-back experience, visitors can take a relaxing cruise or fishing trip on the Blackwater River - one of Europe’s most unspoilt rivers. 

Perks Family Entertainment Centre is a must for all the family and with more holiday homes to rent than any other resort town on the South Coast – including cottages, houses, apartments, guest houses and even luxury villas, many with spectacular views, you will be spoilt for choice.

But this resort is not just about the sea….

It’s about the ‘craic’ in the bars, the live music, the world famous seafood restaurants, the golf and greyhound racing….all set in the backdrop of a medieval town of stunning beauty and character.

What sets Youghal apart from other resorts however, is its natural beauty, with stunning walks and cycle routes along ecology areas to the historical town centre.

 Youghal is also a perfect base in which to explore the beauty of East Cork and West Waterford.   A large number of internationally acknowledged heritage sites and conservation areas are visible along these routes. 

Youghal is also one of the best preserved examples of a 13th century town in Europe, and as such has been designated a ‘Heritage’ Town by Failte Ireland.  It was built as a town to defend and control trade on the Blackwater River which leads into the heart of Munster's rich farmlands. Youghal’s position was critical to the maintenance of that trade, and access to the most valuable farmland in Ireland.  It derives it’s name from the Gaelic word ‘Eochaill’, meaning ‘yew wood’, pronounced ‘Yawl’. 

You can explore the walls and one of the towers from which it is possible to make out the original layout of the town.

The most notable (and photographed) building in the town centre is the fine Clock Tower in the main street, built in 1776 as a gaol (jail)  to imprison the renegade Catholics.  It was routinely used as torture chamber and was universally regarded as a symbol of terror and tyranny!

 Another famous resident of Youghal was the first Earl of Cork, Sir Richard Boyle, who purchased many of the estates of Raleigh.  Boyle’s remains are buried in St. Mary’s Collegiate Church, an 11^th century jewel. 

To fully appreciate medieval and historical Youghal, take a guided or self guided tour around Youghal Heritage Trail, commencing at Youghal Tourist Office.

Today Youghal celebrates it’s past and present in a series of events and festivals throughout the year.  For the Irish music and dance enthusiast ‘Dancing Thru the Ages’ is a spectacular show.  For a more traditional Irish music evening ‘Ceoltas Si’ is performed in a number of locations throughout the town, both shows running throughout July and August. Sports enthusiasts can take part in the Youghal Triathlon in July.  A family fun day that celebrates Youghal’s magical medieval past is the annual Medieval Fun Day.  Youghal Celebrates History is an annual conference when historians from Ireland and abroad gather for animated discussions on Youghal’s heritage.

Youghal is ideally geographically positioned.  It’s where the beauty of East Cork merges with stunning West Waterford and serves as a perfect base for the holidaymaker.  With access to both Cork and Waterford Airports only a 45 minute drive away.