Foynes (Faing in Irish) is a small town and major port in County Limerick, in the midwest of Ireland. Located at the edge of hilly land on the estuary of the River Shannon, it is noteworthy for having been, in the early years of aviation, the last port of call on the eastern shore of the Atlantic for flying boats. All of this changed following the construction and opening in 1942 of Shannon Airport on flat bogland across the river. Foynes flying-boat station closed in 1946.
One of Foynes' main claims to fame is the invention there of Irish Coffee. This came about, it is said, in order to alleviate the suffering of cold and wet passengers during its aviation days in the 1930s and early 40s. The Foynes Flying Boat Museum contains much memorabilia from that era, including the original radio and weather room, along with its equipment.
Nearby places include Adare, a famous heritage town, and the city of Limerick. The main gateway to the region is Shannon Airport. Foynes is located on the N69 "coast road" to Tarbert and Tralee in County Kerry.
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Last updated: 08-29-2005 00:33:47
