Macroom is situated halfway between Cork and Killarney at a point where the fertile Lee valley around Cork City gives way to poorer (and more picturesque) uplands. The main road west leads over the mountains to Killarney, it's mountains and lakes. Another road west leads to Bantry, '''Glengarriff''', '''Gougane Barra''' and '''Beara'''. Both roads pass through the Irish-speaking area of Muskerry. Visitors can't fail to notice the handsome castle entrance dominating the town square. Unfortunately the castle has been largely destroyed and what is left is unsafe. By way of consolation there is a pleasant walk along the river. http://wikitravel.org/en/Macroom