The Blackwater Valley Drive

The Blackwater Valley is a significant touring route for those who arrive at Rosslare Port and are travelling to Kerry. This tour follows the Blackwater, its tributaries and hinterland. From Youghal continue east to Conna, a picturesque little village. From Conna continue to Fermoy, a planned town designed in the 1790s by a Scottish merchant, John Anderson. From Fermoy take the N72 to Ballyhooly, visit Ballyhooly Castle before you continue to Castletownroche a picturesque area beside the Awbeg river which is a tributary of the River Blackwater. Visit Bridgetown Priory, Annesgrove Gardens and the Dino Café here. Continue to Mallow on the N72. Mallow is the Capital of North Cork and often referred to as the Crossroads of Munster. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Mallow was an important spa town and you can view the The Tudor Style Spa House as you enter the town now an energy advice centre. Other buildings of interest in Mallow include Mallow Castle and the Clock House. Doneraile Country Park is an outstanding example of an 18th century landscaped park in the ‘Capability Brown’ Style. It is situated 10km on from Mallow. From Mallow travel to Buttevant. The running of the first ever steeple chase was from Doneraile to Buttevant in 1752, and the ancient open air Cahirmee Horse Fair is still held here annually on the Main St. Continue on to Liscarroll (R522) and visit Liscarroll Castle, and The Donkey Sanctuary. From Liscarroll continue onto Kanturk to visit Kanturk Castle and the town of Kanturk. Continue to Millstreet and visit the Millstreet Country Park renowned for its breathtaking landscape and theme gardens, stone circle, Fullacht Fiadh , Crannog and wishing well. From Millstreet continue to Killarney.