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The busy little town of CLONAKILTY makes a good base from which to explore the Seven Heads Peninsula and the beautiful shoreline to the south of here. The town itself is a pleasantly unassuming place, distinguished chiefly by the traditional music on offer in some of its bars. It is perhaps most famous as the birthplace of the Republican leader Michael Collins and what remains of the house he grew up in has been preserved in his memory. Pubs and music aside , the recently excavated Lisnagun Christian ring fort might appeal, especially if you have young children in tow. It's the only one in Ireland to be reconstructed on its original site, with defensive walls, a thatched central house, souterrains, replica weapons, utensils and clothing - all of which create a vivid picture of tenth-century life. Your ticket includes entrance to a small animal park nearby, where you can encounter reindeer along with the more predictable chickens and rabbits (June-Sept daily 10am-5pm; GBP2/?2.54, children GBP1/?1.27). Just over a mile north of town are the remains of the Templebryan stone circle - four of the original nine stones still stand, along with a central white quartzite pillar; to find it head out of town up MacCurtain Hill. Michael Collins aficionados may also want to visit the memorial to the man about four miles west of town on the N71 towards Rosscarbery. Here you can see the scant remains of his home, which was burnt out by the Black and Tans in 1921. Clonakilty makes a good base from which to explore the crazily indented coastline roundabout, which is especially enjoyable by bike. Quiet, low-lying roads follow the shore offering tranquil cycling and plenty of opportunities for birdwatching with numerous waders searching for food in the sand. Inchydoney beach , about two and a half miles south, is especially fine, though check that the red flag isn't flying before swimming as there can be strong currents here. Around three miles south of Inchydoney the impressive ruins of the eighteenth century Castle Freke mansion make a good focus for a walk. The surrounding demesne is varied with oak, beech and conifer woodland and walks here offer fine views over Rosscarbery Bay.
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