visit blackwater and bride valleys

Travelling on the N72 from Dungarvan to Cappoquin, approx. 7.5 miles from Dungarvan, take the N671 South and follow the direction signs to Villierstown, home of John Treacy, holder of the Olympic Marathon Silver Medal Los Angeles '84 and two World Cross Country Championships. Visit the local Handcraft Centre and Church. From 'the pier' one will get an obstructed view of the River Blackwater and afford the water skier an opportunity to take to the water. From Villierstown proceed to Cappoquin through the tree lined road of Dromana Woods, crossing Dromana Bridge and its oriental style lodge. Cappoquin situated on a bend where the Blackwater turns sharply south, in beautiful timber country at the foot of the Knockmealdown mountains. A quiet market town that offers the angler what is, probably, the best game and coarse fishing in the country. Just three miles north of Cappoquin is Mount Melleray Abbey which was founded by the cistertians in 1831, when they were expelled from Melleray in Brittany. On then to Lismore, set in beautiful surroundings, this town was the site of the seventh century monastery, founded by St Carthgage, which became one of the renowned universities of Europe. The town is dominated by Lismore Castle built on a cliff overhanging the Blackwater. The present castle incorporates fragments of original castle built in 1175 by King John. The medieval cathedral has a splendid Tudor monument, gothic vaulting and some elegant memorials. There is excellent trout and coarse fishing among some of the most beautiful scenery of the blackwater Valley. You can then extend your tour by following the RED on the signposts indicating the Blackwater Valley drives which take you through varied, interesting and beautiful country side. A printed guide which is available will help you to discover and understand the many fascinating items to be found along the way, or from Lismore continue your journey on the N72 to Tallow and the River Bridge. This town was the birthplace of the 19th Century Sculptor, John Hogan. The River Bride holds very good brown trout and sea trout and an occasional Salmon. Join the N25 at Youghal Bridge.