Local Area

For heritage lovers there is Lismore Castle with its beautiful gardens and art gallery, situated in the heritage town of Lismore, on the banks of the River Blackwater. The Rock of Cashel, with its interpretative centre and film show. Blarney Castle, famed for its Blarney stone which is reputed to give the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it.

Many gardens are open to visitors in the locality, notably Lismore Castle and other member of the Blackwater Valley Gardens Trail. Curraghmore House and gardens (home of 9th Marquis of Waterford) Ballymaloe features a garden and of course the cookery school which offers short courses and afternoon demos – and a hugely tempting shop. Not far from Ballymaloe is the Shanagarry pottery and the Jameson Whiskey distillery where tours and tastings are available. The famous English Market in Cork is definitely worth a trip, as visited by HM Queen Elizabeth II and HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, on their state visit to Ireland in 2011. Scenic surroundings with lovely woodland and river walks, also in the Knockmealdown and Comeragh Mountains. Magnificent sandy Blue Flag beaches along the coast. Mitchelstown caves, at the foot of the Galtee Mountains.

Cycling has become extremely popular over the last few years and there are some stunning routes around Careysville to enjoy and challenge any level of cyclist. For those more serious amongst us, there are a great selection of stunning climbs up to 400m, within 20 minutes drive of Careysville. Patrick Devennie our Fishery Manager is a very experienced road cyclist and a member of a local cycling club. So he can offer good advice on routes etc.

For golfers, counties Cork & Waterford host a wide variety of fantastic courses such as Fota Island and Castlemartyr. Horse riding and trekking can be arranged in the Nire Valley and Comeragh Mountains. Several racecourses are within easy reach, including Thurles, Tramore, Gowran Park, Limerick, Tipperary and Mallow. In addition the point to point season runs till the end of May with a number of meets in the locality.

It is unlikely that you will ever go hungry at Careysville but should you wish to explore the local cuisine "Richmond House" in Cappoquin, ‘Aherns' sea food restaurant in Youghal, The "Tannery" in Dungarvan, 'Ballymaloe House’ and the Michelin starred ‘Cliff House’ restaurants are all within an hour’s drive.

Cork has the excellent Crawford Art Gallery, the opera house, the Everyman Palace theatre. Further afield are the historic towns of Cahir and Kinsale with their antique shops, medieval castles, golf and restaurants. About two hours away are Kilkenny and Waterford – both boast castles, excellent shopping and numerous craft activities including the Waterford Crystal visitor centre.

Fota Wildlife Park, Michelstown Caves, swimming in Fermoy, beaches, go-karting, horse riding are all available not far from Careysville.