‘Ne’er a fool was reared in Macroom’, so the local saying goes! It’s true the people of this historic West Cork town, which lies on the main Cork Killarney road, are resilient, bright, and astute. Colourful little shops in the town centre are independently owned. You won’t see a big name fast food outlet or department store among the traditional shop fronts which make up the main street. You may see some Irish names above the doors, as Macroom borders the Irish-speaking area of the Gaeltacht in this region. You’ll find great sportsmen here that have learned their skills at club level in Macroom GAA and gone on to do County Cork football proud. Macroom is a town of diversity and tradition all rolled into one. Sit up at the bar in one of the cosy old pubs of the town and you’ll get all the lowdown on sport and other local gossips!

It’s only September, but the rain and misty weather has ensured it already feels like the time of year when we should be cosying up in front of the fire,  for a bit of quiet time with some nice food and wine.