Ballyfin

Infobox Irish Place
name = Ballyfin
gaeilge = Baile Fionn
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province = Leinster
county = County Laois
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Ballyfin ("Baile Fionn" in Irish, meaning "Town of Fionn") is a small village and parish in County Laois, Ireland. Located in the Slieve Bloom Mountains, the village is in the midlands of Ireland. It is located on the R423 regional road mid way between the towns of Mountrath and Mountmellick.

As Ballyfin is situated in the Slieve Bloom Mountains there are many beautiful walks nearby. Most of the area is covered in forest. The trees were planted by local farmers on marginal land unsuitable for farming. The area around Ballyfin has some recreational areas such as The Cathole Falls, Ballyfin house and numerous buildings dating from the Georgian era.

Ballyfin extends right into Portlaoise, close to Mountrath, Mountmellick, Rosenallis, Slieve Bloom.

History

According to legend, Fionn Mac Cumhaill is said to have been raised here. Fionn ate the Salmon of Knowledge which gave him untold knowledge. Later he became leader of the Fianna.Other notable residents include JJ Coughlan. Tis a delightful experience to sip an ice cold Bulmers outside the Deadmans Inn on a warm summer evening.

Education

Ballyfin National School celebrated 100 years in 2002. Ballyfin is also famous for Ballyfin House, now the Patrician College. "Ballyfin '93", an Irish Scout Jamboree took place in the grounds of this college.

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The village also has a Gaelic Athletic Association club called Ballyfin GAA.

ee also

*List of towns in Ireland