With a warm welcome and good craic guaranteed, a stay in Ireland lets you discover an island of contrasts. From the bright lights of Dublin, Cork, Galway and Limerick in the Republic of Ireland and Belfast and Londonderry in Northern Ireland, to the breathtaking countryside in between - Ireland can deliver a host of activities along the way! So go on, catch a flight or ferry to Ireland and experience the magic for yourself.

Atlantic breakers incessantly pound the west coast of County Clare. They have sculpted the grey limestone into a myriad of shapes, from the savage grandeur of the Cliffs of Moher to the gentle slopes with rock pools at Fanore. In sheltered places like Kilkee, Lahinch, Liscannor and many small coves, the waves have spread a coating of golden sand. Just to drive along the coast road is an end in itself, watching the ever-changing scenery, with its seascape stretching far away towards America.

The Dean and Chapter of Christ Church Cathedral welcome visitors to Dublin's oldest building - the mother church of the dioceses of Dublin and Glendalough in the Church of Ireland. The Cathedral was founded in the year 1030 by Sitriuc, King of the Dublin Norsemen. Christ Church Cathedral is one of Dublin's oldest and most recognised landmarks. Dating back to the eleventh century, the Cathedral and the exhibition "Treasures of Christ Church" reflect 1000 years of history, architecture and worship in Ireland. Treasures of Christ Church displays a unique range of manuscripts, historic artefacts and spectacular examples of gold and silverware.

The ancient kingdoms stretch from the eastern shores of Lough Neagh overlooked by Crewe Hill, where the Kings of Ulster were crowned a thousand years ago, through the Lagan Valley and the heartland of St Patrick to Strangford Lough, the Mourne Mountains and the historic coasts of County Down. The Kingdoms of Down offer a unique collection of all that is best in spectacular scenery, exciting attractions and endless opportunities for relaxation and activity. Recognised worldwide as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a marvellous combination of Loughs, country parks, forests and mountains are all surrounded by miles and miles of sweeping and beautiful coastline.

The further you venture off the beaten track, the better it gets. Family seaside resort Portstewart is a superb gateway to this dramatic, diverse landscape. Travel west along the Atlantic Coast for a panorama of amazing sights: Castlerock strand, clifftop Mussenden Temple overlooking 7 miles of perfect beach (Downhill), award-winning Benone Beach. From Magilligan Point admire the vista across the Foyle estuary to the Donegal hills. Southwest from Portstewart, drive to the top of Binevenagh Mountain for breathtaking views of the Roe Valley. Roe Valley Park, once a hydroelectric powerplant, is a unique activity centre offering canoeing, hiking, fishing, rock climbing and history trails.

Donegal has sandy beaches, sugared mountains, chattering streams and silent valleys. With plenty of fishing, golfing, surfing and walking available, it is the perfect place to get away from it all. There are many pleasant restaurants in which to sample the fresh food available in this county. The county’s link to history is strong and the Ring Fort of the O’Neill Clan, former King of Ireland, rests atop a 240m hill where the vista is stunning. The Triona Design Centre shows how ‘Donegal Tweed’ is prepared, one of the many cottage industries in the area.

Kissane Sheep Farm is a working mountain farm with approx. 1000 sheep. Visitors can experience the hard work on the farm: sheepdog demonstrations, 3 marked (mountain) walks with magnificent views; helping out on the farm and feeding pet lambs. The goal of Adopt a Sheep is to preserve the Irish heritage of mountain sheep, living in the mountains in the scenic area of Moll’s Gap on the Ring of Kerry (Ireland).

Gateway into the heart of Kerry – to the wild scenic glories of “Ryan’s Daughter” settings on the Dingle Peninsula or placid serenity of Killarney – the market town of Castleisland was once the headquarters of the Earls of Desmond. Close by is Crag Cave, a superb showcave and entry to the rocky inner heart of the area, while across the nearby mountains stretches the Slieve Luachra area famed for its distinctive traditional music, dance and song which are celebrated at the Cultural Centre in the dainty village of Scartaglin.

The Shannon Region is just perfect for couples. There are great accommodation options in beautiful locations, from Luxury Castle Hotels on their own estates, to B&B’s and self-catering holiday-home accommodation by River lake or sea. The backdrop of Atlantic Ocean, cliffs, forests, rivers or lakes is idyllic. The Region also boasts many fine ’good food circle‘ restaurants, top attractions and entertainment.

A sense of antiquity prevails as one enters the gates of Ballinlough. Perched on a hill overlooking two lakes, the 17th century castle is the home of Sir John and Lady Nugent. The gardens were restored in 1994, and are now open to the public, together with the lakeside and woodland walks. The walled garden is divided into four walled sections. On view are herbaceous borders, a grass tennis court, lily pond, rose garden, a herb and soft fruit garden and a well stocked orchard. From the walled gardens, a white door leads to the lakeside walks with the charming water garden and its rustic summerhouse. The walk around the lake affords dramatic views of the castle and its demense.