Gougane Barra, Co. Cork, Ireland

Gougane Barra, nestled in the heart of County Cork, Ireland, is a place of serene beauty and historical significance. This enchanting glacial valley is home to Gougane Barra Forest Park, which encompasses a tranquil lake, dense woodlands, and a picturesque hermitage, making it a haven for nature lovers and spiritual seekers. On entering Gougane Barra you are met with St Finbarr's Oratory or Small Church out in the Lake on the little island all on its own. Just behind the Oratory are the remains of St Finbarr's monastery from the 6th century, with beautiful old stations of the cross above the ancient prayer cells. Its history is deeply rooted in Irish monastic tradition, dating back to the 6th century when Saint Finbarr, the patron saint of Cork, established a monastic settlement on the island in the lake. This hermitage became a site of pilgrimage and contemplation over the centuries, with its ruins and oratory offering a glimpse into the area's rich religious past.