SEE

WALKS IN GOUGANE BARRA
Gougane Barra
Some will arrive in Gougane Barra, walk around the small church, have a drink in the hotel or the bar and leave. It is a missed opportunity though not to take time to explore the woodlands adjacent to the lake and hotel. There has been a real effort in recent years to provide decent trails and pathways and all levels of walkers are catered for.

TOY SOLDIER FACTORY
Kilnamartyra, Macroom
Tel: 026 40222 Web: princeaugust.ie
Billed as Ireland's only toy soldier factory, this unique setting shows you the process of making toy soldiers from design to finished product. There are a variety of camps and workshops available throughout summer, and the staff are very friendly and accommodating. Good spot for a rainy day.

MACROOM CASTLE
Macroom
Web: macroom.ie
The gateway and tower are all that are left of this castle, but are situated right in the heart of town. There is a nice river walk now leading to the castle demesne, where there is parking. The town of Macroom is worth a visit also, especially on market days, such as every Tuesday from 9am to 2pm.

KILLARNEY
Co Kerry
Web: killarney.ie
The town of Killarney is roughly one hour by road from Gougane Barra and has long been a favourite of Irish and overseas visitors. If you want a more active day away from Gougane, then shopping at the Killarney Outlet Centre is worth a visit, while there are some good local swimming pools, cinema and of course nightly entertainment at the INEC complex.

BALLYVOURNEY
Ballyvourney
Situated in the heart of the west Cork Gaeltacht, this area would be well-known to generations of Irish students who spend their summers here at Irish college. At night, there can be some great music sessions in the local bars, while the area is surrounded by lovely walks and rolling countryside. In terms of religious significance, it is associated with St Gobnait, and a shrine and well are visited by many.