In a tranquil, green valley in North Westmeath, lies the tiny village of Fore, known for its 7th Century Monastery
Fore Abbey and the intriguing 'Seven Wonders of Fore'. Visitors can view the site where St Fechin founded the Christian monastery, where 300 monks once lived. Set on fire 12 times, this monastic site has a fascinating history. Among the remains on site, visitors can see St Fechin’s church, built about 900 AD.
Here you can explore the famous and fascinating 'Seven Wonders of Fore’ - including a monastery in the bog, the mill without a race, the water that flows uphill, the tree that won’t burn, the water that won’t boil, the anchorite in a stone and the stone/lintel raised by
St Féichín’s prayers.
Fore Abbey Coffee Shop is a restored farm building established as a cafe in 1998, adjacent to Fore Abbey. Home baked treats and locally produced great tasting coffee is available, long with a warm welcome and local tourist information.
Lough Lene is just 3km from Fore and is a heaven for wild swimmers with its refreshing clear waters and stunning scenery. It is one of three designated bathing areas in Westmeath.
Not far from the pretty village of Fore, you can discover the small Irish craft distillery
Fore Distillery. Here, golden rum, white rum and a local poitín is produced - inspired by the 7th century Benedictine monks of the nearby Fore Abbey. It’s a real treat and honour to take a small, guided tour of the distillery - led by the founder and master distiller, and you can follow this up with tastings of their craft Irish spirits. Then all that’s left to do is sit back and soak up the picturesque countryside views from your table in the distillery’s café - Barrel & Bean by Fore Distillery.
The Barrell and Bean Cafe By Fore Distillery is open seasonally with great lunch options and delicious coffee adn treats.