14 May Drombeg Stone Circle, County Cork
Situated on the Glandore road west of Clontakilty, Drombeg is the finest of the many stone circles in County Cork. Dating back to about 150 BC, this circle of 17 standing stones is 9m in diameter. At the winter solstice, the rays of the setting sun fall on the flat altar stone which faces the entrance to the circle, marked by two upright stones.
Nearby is a small stream, with a Stone Age cooking pit, similar to one at Craggaunowen. A fire was made in the hearth and hot stones from the fire were dropped into the cooking pit to heat the water. Once the water boiled, the meat, usually venison, was added.
Drombeg is a hidden gem that is worth a visit on your tours of Ireland.