Travel Down a winding boreen in Tipperary under the shadow of Sliabh Na mBan. As you round the last bend the road slopes gently towards Croc an Oir. A century ago  Hawes Barn housed the implements of a bygone farming era. The Hawe family lived in the old house and farmed here for over two hundred years.They left in 1921 but many of their names remain etched in the walls. 

Croc an Oir is a working farm with suckler cows, calves, horses, hens, dogs and cats. The farm straddles the River Anner at the foot of the mountain. It is a homely place. The boreen meanders to the river, where a modern wooden footbridge leads you to tranquil riverbank and woodland walks. Rest a while and be soothed by the rippling waters or, if you are feeling more energetic, head for the hills.

In recent years much tree planting has taken place on the farm alongside existing native woodland. Simple paths have been left to allow easy access. Upstream from the footbridge a gurgling spring of pure fresh water awaits your taste and if you are feeling hardy dive in for a tingling swim.

The restoration process of Croc an Oir buildings began in 2001. Stone by stone, slate by slate the journey unfolded. Great care was taken to retain the character of the buildings whilst mindful of the need to create a comfortable nest. It now shelters the original courtyard, its crumbling walls repointed and renewed.

A short trek will lead you to the mountain road where the historic hill of Carraig Ma Clear beckons. There are steps all the way to the top to ease your climb. Sliabh Na mBan summit can be reached by travelling a few miles towards Kilcash. The view from the top is worth the effort.

The area was home to Charles Kickham, a famous writer and political activist of the 19th century, whose life is celebrated each year in the Kickham Country Weekend.

In recent years the exploits of John Leahy and the Kelly brothers on the hurling field have put Mullinahone on the sporting map.

A series of plaques guide you through the village and surrounding areas, from the home of Kickham to Killaghy Castle, from the old courthouse to a famine soup kitchen and the ruins of an ancient monastery. It is an area steeped in history, which has been well documented in a recent book by local historian Michael Larkin.