There is an abundance of interesting places to visit and things to do in the south east of Ireland. Like all of the country there is a wealth of beauty spots and places of historical significance and magnitude.
WATERFORD is blessed with a long rugged coast line, beautiful beaches and coves. Sweeping down to the sea there is the Commeragh mountains. Nestled in the Commeraghs you will find magnificent vista’s from the Mahon Falls. Or just take a ramble in the mountains seeking out Flucht Fia’s, stone circles, cairns and other monuments dating back to 3000BC. The Nire Valley is a pleasant spot for fishing, walking or horse riding. Lismore is a heritage town with a huge castle. And not forgetting of course Waterford Glass, renowned the world over for the beautifully cut crystal. And if it all gets too much for you, just walk or run or surf in the 5km long Tramore beach.
KILKENNY is an inland agricultural county. Its main urban center being Kilkenny city – a medival city with a pleasant atmosphere and well preserved ancient buildings. Visit such places as Kilkenny Castle, Roath House, St. Canice’s Catherdral. Kilkenny is a place where artists like to reside. And the Kilkenny Design center is home to many local artists. North of Kilkenny city you have Dunmore Caves where earlier the last century the bodies of more than 1000 people were discovered. All believed to be over 1000 years old. Perhaps you prefer to take to the countryside. Then there are 6 routes (sli – we like to call them), devised that will take you past round towers, small villages, high crosses, dolmens and spectacular scenery.
WEXFORD is a coastal county. Famed for its strawberry fairs and historic battles. This county offers sights such as Hook head, The saltee islands, Mount Leinster, Vinegar Hill and Enniscorthy Castle. Rosslare on the eastern coast is where the Ferries leave to and from France and Wales.
TIPPERARY is the second biggest county in area after Cork. Sights such as the “Rock of Cashel” and Glen of Aherlow should not be missed. Anyone interested in doing a 3 day hike can do the famed St. Declans way from Cashel to Ardmore.
CORK is the largest county in Ireland. It was from Cobh (Queenstown) that many an emigrant set sail for America. Indeed it was from here that the Titanic has its last port of call on its route to disaster in the North Atlantic. The most popular things to do in the city are ringing the bells at Shandon and visiting Blarney Castle. Nearby Kinsale is the gournet capital of Ireland. While Ballymaloe house offers excellent cookery courses given by Darina Allen. County Cork is bles with both coastal and mountain scenery that will leave you in awe. Places such as the Bearra Pennisuala, Gougane Barra and Bantry will make you want to stay forever. And it’s the onward route to the Ring of Kerry.
The links provided will give more detailed information on various places of interest that I would recommend. I have also compiled some suggested day trips. Enjoy your stay.
