Cobh Named One Of The Most Beautiful Small Towns in Europe

We all know the pleasures of a European city break, wandering through the wonders of iconic locations such as Rome or Paris which truly transport us to another time. But as COVID-19 has forced us all to take a look at what wonders might await us at our doorstep due to green lists and travel corridors, it's more crucial than ever to take time to consider the hidden gems that lay at our disposal on continental Europe.

Anyone that's graced the town of Cobh on their COVID-19 induced staycation can attest that the Cork town is truly a sight to behold but now it is official as it has been named one of the most beautiful small towns in all of Europe by none other than Condé Naste Traveller.

"Cobh redefines charming with its rows of candy-colored homes along the water and towering cathedral standing sentry over the harbour," journalist Caitlin Morton explains.

"This town is particularly popular with cruise-lovers-about 60 ships stop there every year. In fact, Cobh was the final port of call for the RMS Titanic, and a commemorative museum stands in the city today."

A key tourist attraction in Cobh is linked back to the town's connection to the Titanic - Cobh was the departure point for many thousands of White Star Line passengers and in memory of that the town offers an extensive Titanic tour experience which includes a visit to the original pier also known as Heartbreak Pier, which was the last point of land contact for Cobh passengers.

You'll also get the opportunity to experience the trauma of the chill of the ship's sinking, through a 'unique cinematographic experience' of which we don't know the precise details but we expect needs to be lived to be believed.

The town is in good company on the list compiled by journalist Caitlin Morton as it sits firmly between Kastraki in Greece and Bled in Slovenia. Other small towns that get the honour include Castelluccio in Italy, Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Germany, Angra do Heroísmo, Azores in Portugal and Portree on the Isle of Skye in Scotland.

If you've got the travel bug and fancy exploring Europe's hidden treasures you can view the full list of Europe's most beautiful small towns here.

Featured Image Credit: Photo by Jason Murphy on Unsplash

Topics: Ireland

Gary Grimes

Gary Grimes is a sometimes journalist and sometimes publicist, originally from Sligo but usually in London. When he’s not PRing everything from gin to sex toys, he’s usually covering music, photography and pop culture topics for titles including Interview Magazine, The Face, Huck Magazine and Dummy. When he’s doing neither of those things, he’s probably rewatching weeks of Big Brother 2005 on YouTube or explaining to someone why Paris Hilton is a genius. Reach him at [email protected]

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