Gougane Barra (Irish: Guagán Barra, meaning "the rock of Barra") is a settlement, west of Macroom in County Cork. The name Gougane Barra comes from Saint Finbarr, who is said to have built a monastery on an island in the lake nearby during the 6th century. The present ruins date from around 1700 when a priest called Denis O'Mahony retreated to the island. During the times of the Penal Laws, Gougane Barra's remoteness meant that it became a popular place for the celebration of Mass. The nineteenth century oratory which stands near the original monastery is famous for its picturesque location and richly decorated interior and is a popular place for weddings.
The source of the River Lee rises in the hills above and flows into Gougane lake. On entering the valley you are met with the natural beauty of the hills which tower over Gougane Barra Lake and then the well known St Finbarr's Oratory out in the Lake on the little island all on its own. Pilgrims still visit this holy site and the 25th of September is the feast of St Finbarr. A truly magical and peaceful place in a stunning location especially on a winter's day of almost perfect reflections such as this.