Cosy beach-side lodge that has a taste of Clonifornia

ARNOLD Schwarzenegger calls his new state Collyifornia, and in West Cork the current state of grace is Clonifornia.

A rising tide of prosperity in the last 10 years has lifted the boats of many West Cork towns, but the one that has coasted above and beyond the rest of the bunch is Clonakilty, aka Clonifornia.

Beach Boys-style West Coast living has hit the town and its beaches, with surfing and even kite surfing the new sport in town two shops selling boards and surf gear have opened up this summer.