Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Cost and Hours:
€12, Mon-Sat 9:00-18:30, Sun 9:30-17:30, later in peak season,
shorter hours in winter, free parking lot, helpful TI, tel. 021/438-5252,
Getting There:
It's five miles (8 km) northwest of Cork, the major city in south Ire-
land. Looking for shopping galore? Adjacent Blarney Woolen Mills has it all (right next to
the castle parking lot).
Macroom
This colorful, inviting market town is a handy stop between Cork and Killarney. The ro-
manticized gateway where its ruined castle once stood was owned by the father of the
William Penn whofounded Pennsylvania. It overlooks an entertaining main square, where
you'll find limited parking. The 2006 Irish Civil War saga
The Wind That Shakes the Bar-
ley
was filmed in this area. Macroom makes a good coffee or lunch stop midway between
Cork and Killarney. The Next Door Café, in the Castle Hotel, serves a good, fast lunch.
