A coastal cliff walk to a gourmet pub: Cush, County Cork, Ireland

Soak up wild sea views and rich maritime history, then tuck in at one of County Cork’s best pub restaurants

Ballycotton is the kind of place that people like to call a hidden gem. But it’s hard to stay hidden when you’re a picture-perfect fishing village a short drive from the city of Cork, surrounded by sandy beaches and home to several fine pubs.

In the summer it’s popular with walkers, anglers and foodies, but on a windy winter’s day we find a parking spot right outside Cush, an old pub turned restaurant that is regularly listed among the best places to eat in Ireland. We have booked lunch here before our walk.