Obscure Place of the Month: Roundstone, Ireland

It's easy to write about the movies and music that come out of places like London, Paris or Rio de Janiero. These cities are hubs of culture and creativity, inspiring artists through the ages. Yet there are other less well-known places that have nevertheless made impressions. That's why once a month I'm going to turn the spotlight on a small town that has carved out its own memorable place in pop culture. So, in honor of St. Patrick's Day tomorrow, my first Obscure Place of the Month is in Ireland.

Photo by [carlo cravero] on Flickr

Roundstone in Connemara, County Galway, Ireland is a tiny village that has been immortalized as the town of Ballinagra in the movie The Matchmaker. The 1997 romantic comedy stars Janeane Garofalo as a cynical assistant to a US Senator who is sent to Ireland in order to trace the senator's Irish roots. She arrives in the small town of Ballinagra just in time for their annual matchmaking festival and of course, all the villagers turn their focus onto single newcomer. There's no surprises in the typical rom-com plot, but it's enjoyable - not in the least due to the gorgeous Irish setting.

Roundstone does not have a matchmaking festival, but it does host a yearly Summerfest where you can experience traditional Irish music, games and food. A tiny, but active fishing village the rest of the year, visitors shop for locally made art or chat with welcoming locals at the pub. Traditional music is still played in many of the pubs, so you can hope to be serenaded by an attractive Irishman as Garofalo is in the movie.

Photo by Seba Sofariu on Flickr

For more information on Roundstone, check out their town website.