MITCHELSTOWN

itchelstown, just 30 miles from Cork City, is set at the foothills of the Galtee Mountains, in the beautiful countryside of Ireland's Blackwater Valley. The town's name derives from St. Michael, the patron saint of the Condon Family, who lived hereabouts in medieval times. 

It is an important example of a planned town and was laid out primarily by the 1st and 3rd Earls of Kingston in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. Their family, the King family, had acquired the town through the marriage of Sir John King, 1st Baron Kingston, to the heir of the Earl of Desmond's estates

Mitchelstown is the ideal base from which to explore a wealth of activities available within the 'Three Counties' region of Cork, Limerick and Tipperary at the confluence of which the town lies. The town' s charming and picturesque 18-hole golf course is set at the foot of the Galtee Mountains. Pitch and Putt is on offer in part of the old grounds of the castle and at the lovely old village of Castlelyons.

The extensive local river network offers a wide choice of game and coarse fishing. Riding Tuition, Trail Riding and Pony Trekking are available at local equestrian centres. Mitchelstown lies in the valley between the Galtee and the Knockmealdown Mountains. Both offer spectacular scenery and can afford both the dedicated hill walker and the 'Sunday stroller' a huge variety of walks. The drive along the Blackwater Valley and around by 'The Vee' is one of the most beautiful drives in the country and lies at the town's doorstep.

Doneraile Forest Park and Ballyhoura Mountain Park both offer marked walks, nature trails and orienteering combined with plenty of fresh air and splendid scenery. If it's castles you want, the locals can offer some real gems. Visit the towering heights of Lismore Castle, cross the moat at Cahir Castle or enter the exquisite Swiss Cottage by the narrow, subterranean passage. Cashel, 'home of the High Kings of Ireland' is a 30-minute drive away, as are the sandy beaches of Clonea, Ardmore, Youghal or Garryvoe. Another afternoon's pure pleasure can be had by visiting the glorious gardens at Anne's Grove or the finest limestone caves in Europe, Mitchelstown Caves.