For the visitor with gift shop fatigue and cultural overload, Kealkill is a charming and unspoilt respite. Nestling in the picturesque Ouvane valley among the Caha hills, the scenery combines rugged vistas and rustic tranquillity with the Ouvane River gently meandering to nearby Bantry Bay. Carriganass Castle perched dramatically over a waterfall is a short stroll from the village.

This impressive ruin of an O'Sullivan Beara stronghold evokes images of a Gaelic aristocracy in decline and has strong historical associations with the Battle of Kinsale, the retreat to Leitrim, and the flight of the Earls. There is an abundance of historic jewels in the area; Kealkill Stone Circle and the Stone Row at Tooreen Lake are well worth a visit. Don't miss fine examples of local basketry craft at Maughanasilly, candle making at Derryfada and traditional woodcraft at Maulavaning and Cappabue.

There is a wealth of activities for visitors to the area; from walking to the high peak at Knockboy, to cycling on the delightful network of minor roads. Salmon and trout fishing is a must and wildlife enthusiasts can visit the castle roost, of one of the biggest Dubenton bat colonies in Ireland. At weekends the visitor can watch local stalwarts road-bowling, Kealkill recently hosted the All Ireland Championship. Kealkill is small friendly village with none of the airs or trappings of popular tourist venues.

Kealkill is part of the ancestral home of the O'Sullivans in Ireland and forms a stage of the Beara-Breifne Greenway which is based on the historic march of O'Sullivan Beara in 1603.

Greenways Festival 2003

Kealkill is talking part in the Greenways Festival in summer 2003 to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the legendary 1603 march of O’Sullivan Beara from the Beara Peninsula to the Breifne area. Click here for info on the events.