Inishmore (7635 acres) , Inishmaan (2253 acres) and Inisheer (1400 acres) lie about 30 miles off the Galway Coast and even today remain relatively isolated. Fishing is done from currachs , fragile-looking boats covered in tarred canvas , and the islanders have cultivated small pockets...
Rising to 1722ft , the unmistakable ‘table-topped’ shape fo this mountain dominates the countryside around Sligo Town. There are panoramic views from its summit , where many alpine plant species can be found. W. B. Yeats was just one of this mountains fans , and his...
The ancient Celts of Europe held great drinking-parties at which tribal bonds were secured and treaties were made. The principal drink on such occasions was called coirm , a kind of ale made from a mash of barley or wheat fermented in water. The ancient Irish...
The church of this 12th century monastery on the banks of the Suir has been meticulously restored and is now used as a parish church. The monastery itself took its name from a relic of the True Cross , which was contained in a golden...
Situated on the River Moy with views of the Ox mountains to the North East. The Providence Woollen Mills , where the famous Foxford rugs are made , was founded in 1892 by Agnes Morrogh Bernard to stop emigration from the area. Though some of...
Although it is best noted for its tweed industry in the 18th century , Blarney has become best known for the Blarney Stone , set in the castle’s battlements 83ft above the ground. According to legend kissing the stone – and it is no easy...
This market town , which straddles the River Bandon , is a popular angling centre. It was established by the Earl of Cork , Richard Boyle , in 1608. Boyle , who arrived from England with only £20 , a diamond ring , a gold bracelet...
A lively West Cork town which has become the agricultural and industrial centre for the area. Skibbereen is home to a growing community of artists , craftworkers and writers , many from Continental Europe , who use the West Cork Arts Centre on Main St...
Northwest of Letterkenny is the lovely seaside resort on Lough Swilly was where Red Hugh O’Donnell was captured and taken to be imprisoned in Dublin Castle , one of the sparks which ignited a great war between the Gaelic Irish and the English Crown. It was...
A popular town with a selection of lively pubs and restaurants. Clifden is sited at the Northern end of Clifden Bay , the Twelve Pins provide a spectacular scenic backdrop to the town. There is a choice of strands and sheltered coves for bathing within...