The Gearagh - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Carrigadrohid Castle is situated on a rock outcrop in a wonderfully picturesque setting on the River Lee. Built in the 15th century by the MacCarthys of Muskerry. It is partially ruined building, whose charm is well worth a visit. It has been in ruins since the late 18th century. In later years, a local group has been formed with the aim of preserving the castle.

This beautiful three-acre garden is full of surprises with amazing designs and fun for all the family with over ten unique gardens designs, including; Japanese, Chinese and Sunken White Gardens and a fairy woods. A wander over the birch mound leads to the walled kitchen garden. The kids will have great fun visiting the Hobbit House built right through the birch mound, searching for the fairy houses in the fairy woods, and playing with the Pygmy Goats and Birds.

Ballincollig Royal Gunpowder Mills was one of three Royal gunpowder mills that manufactured gunpowder for the British Government. Located in Ballincollig near Cork city in Ireland, the powder mills were originally opened in 1794 as a private enterprise, before being taken over by the British Government during the Napoleonic Wars. Though ruined, many of the remaining structures of the mill site are afforded National Monument status.

Castledonovan is a townland in Dromdaleague, which lies on a rock on the east bank of the River Ilen in the townland of the same name, in County Cork in Ireland. Approximately 60 feet in height, it sits on a large rock or outcropping, which forms the ground floor, close to the bank of the River Ilen. The Castle was divided into various chambers or rooms. One room was set aside in the old days for food for the garrison and another store room for gunpowder and shot.

Blarney Castle is a medieval stronghold in Blarney, near Cork, Ireland. The castle originally dates from before 1200, when a timber house was believed to have been built on the site, although no evidence remains of this. Around 1210 this was replaced by a stone fortification. The castle is now a partial ruin with some accessible rooms and battlements. Tourists visiting Blarney Castle may hang upside-down over a sheer drop to kiss the stone, which is said to give the gift of eloquence.

This is a cottage and National Monument located in County Cork, Ireland. It was the birthplace of Irish revolutionary leader Michael Collins. The house is rectangular and single-storey, built of local stone. Michael John Collins, father of Michael, was an adept carpenter and made the furniture, doors and windowframes himself.