Situated on the N22 midway between Cork City and Killarney is Macroom, a busy market town in the valley of the Sullane River. The town has a colourful history and a range of activities for the visitor, making this an ideal destination for a relaxing vacation in County Cork.
 

Sightseeing

Gougane Barra - This is the source of the River Lee, its a national park and an area of outstanding beauty. Facilities provided include 5 km of motor trail, 10 km of hill walks, vista points and nature trails. There is parking, picnic areas and guided tours by appointment. Gougane Barra is about 25 minutes from Fountain House B&B. - www.gouganebarra.com

The Gearagh - (Wooded River) is the remains of the only post glacial, alluvial forest in western Europe. Located about a mile from Macroom, it consists of a number of submerged islands that once supported a rich woodland flora but are now for the most part, covered by the waters of the Lee hydroelectric scheme. The Gearagh is a haven of peace and tranquility and provides ideal opportunities for off road walking, there is a Gearagh Loop which is approximately 6.5 KM in length, be prepared to encounter rare species of plants and birds.

Bealick Mill - Just outside Macroom, the waters of the Foherish were harnessed in 1899 to provide street lighting for the town of Macroom, the mill was restored in the 1990s and is a fine example of hydro power, the Mill also houses a famine museum.

Briery Gap Cultural Centre - a local theatre, library and cultural centre that stages live shows regularly. www.brierygap.com

Béal na Bláth - it was at Béal na Bláth that General Michael Collins, commander-in-chief of the National Army and Chairman of the Provisional Government was shot and killed during an ambush by anti-treaty republican irregulars on Tuesday August 22nd 1922, there is a monument at the site of the ambush. Béal na Bláth is 25 minutes from Fountain House.

Macroom Castle - Enter the Castle Demense through the archway on the main square, the remains of the Castle can still be seen and the demense is now a public park with beautiful riverway walks, the demense is also home to Macroom Golf Course.

Blarney Castle and Stone - According to Legend, kissing the stone endows the kisser with the gift of the gab (eloquence or skill at flattery). Blarney is 20 minutes from Fountain House. www.blarneycastle.ie

Killarney - The tourist mecca of Ireland, Killarney has a lot to offer a visitor, Muckross House and Gardens represent the focal point of Killarney National Park, the house itself is in magnificent condition and there are daily tours, the park leads to the world famous lakes of Killarney where you can take a boat ride. www.muckross-house.ie. Torc Waterfall is one of the landmarks on the 200 kilometres Kerry Way walking tour that encompasses the national park and stretches from the waterfall to the top of Torc mountain. Killarney is 40 minutes from Macroom.
 

Family Activities

Fota Wildlife Park - worth a day trip, Fota is approximately 1 hour from Macroom. www.fotawildlife.ie

Toy Soldier Factory - Visits Ireland's only Toy Soldier Factory at 'Prince August', in Kilnamartyra, just a few minutes from Fountain House. www.princeaugust.ie

Kennedy's Pet Farm - Pets from fur to feather, indoors and outdoors, ready to be Cuddled, fed and admired at Kennedy's Pet Farm near Killarney, approximately 40 minutes from Fountain House. www.kennedyspetfarm.com

Millstreet Country Park - Visit Millstreet Country Park home to archaeological sites, sensory gardens, deer farms and much more. About 30 minutes from Fountain House. www.millstreetcountrypark.com
Clonakilty's Model Railway Village - walking into the model village you step back in time and see life as it was in the 1940's. www.modelvillage.ie
 

Outdoor Adventure

Iniscarra Rowing Lake - has magnificent facilities, a new National Rowing Centre. www.iaru.ie. Inniscarra is 15-20 minutes from Fountain House.

Carrig Waterski and Wakeboard Centre - all levels of ability are catered for with wetsuits, life jackets, ski boards and coaching included in their fees. wwwdiscoverireland.ie/activities-adventure/carrig-waterski-and-wakeboarding-centre/45752. Carrigadrohid is 15 minutes from Fountain House.
 

Golf

Macroom Golf Club - 18 hole Parkland Course. 026-41072.

Lee Valley Golf & Country Club - Clashanure, Ovens 021-4331721.

Killarney Golf & Fishing Club - Two championship courses, home to the Irish Open 2010 and 2011.

Blarney Golf Club - 35 km from Macroom in the famous town of Blarney.