In recent years, the town of Millstreet has become well known for a number of reasons. It is the setting of the famous Green Glens Arena where two major international showjumping events take place each year. To many, it was put on the map in 1993 when the Eurovision Song Contest was held at Green Glens. As most similar events are automatically held in Dublin, this was a groundbreaking change and one which was welcomed wholeheartedly by the Cork region.
The venue has also hosted a World Championship boxing match between Steve Collins and Chris Eubank as well as many concerts. The Cranberries chose Green Glens as the location for their 'comeback' concert and other national and international artists to perform there have been The Corrs, Van Morrison and Meatloaf to name a few.
Millstreet is actually 300 years old and its history is charted within the town's museum which was opened in 1980. In the 1750s it was described as having 'a small inn, a mill and half a dozen cabins' - it has grown since then to a population of 1500. Much of present day Millstreet was built in the 19th century - it has been said that the occupants of the town in 1900 would still feel at home there a century later.
Millstreet Country Park was founded in 1995 and has developed into the top local tourist attraction. 500 acres of parkland can be explored on an open-top bus from where you will be able to enjoy the scenery.
Beyond the events which take place here, Millstreet would not have a wide range of local amenities and attractions. It is midway between Mallow and Killarney and therefore an ideal stop on the route, but for further exploration you would be advised to continue on your journey.