Things to do in Macroom

Activities, attractions and tours
Photo by Michael Schuier

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Top places to visit

1. Blarney Castle

Visit Blarney Castle to see dungeons, towers and ramparts of a fortress dating back to the 15th century. Marvel at the colorful flower displays of the perfectly groomed gardens and enjoy picnics on pristine lawns. Climb to the Blarney Stone, said to grant the gift of eloquence to all who kiss it. Today’s Blarney Castle is the third structure on the site and was established in 1446 by the then King of Munster.
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Blarney Castle which includes a castle, heritage elements and heritage architecture

2. Killarney National Park

Stretching over 25,000 acres, Ireland’s first national park was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1982, an award given to areas that demonstrate a balanced relationship between people and nature.
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Muckross Abbey featuring heritage elements, flowers and a cemetery

3. University College Cork

Cork University College is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland and was founded in 1845 as one of three Queen’s colleges located in Belfast, Galway and Cork. The university won international acclaim when it was named Irish University of the Year by the Sunday Times in 2011.
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Situated by the banks of the River Lee, University College Cork is a gorgeous, ornate gothic structure with a rich reputation for academic excellence.

4. Muckross House

At Muckross House visit a beautiful aristocratic home, wander through extensive gardens and learn about traditional farming culture. Explore a grand estate with many different perspectives of Ireland’s history.
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Muckross House which includes chateau or palace, heritage architecture and heritage elements

5. Blarney Stone

Embedded into the moss and lichen-speckled battlements of Blarney Castle, in the small village of the same name, kissing the Blarney Stone is no easy feat. This is particularly true for anyone with a fear of heights as kissing the stone involves leaning backwards over the castle walls to reach it with one’s lips. Nevertheless, this has not stopped countless individuals from doing so over the centuries, in their quest for the gift of the gab.
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While County Cork is not short on medieval history, you will only find one Blarney Stone. Located roughly five miles northwest of Cork, the stone is said to have mythical qualities. Legend has it that the Blarney Stone grants the gift of eloquence to anybody who kisses it.

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