County Donegal

Donegal is Ireland’s third largest county. The Atlantic Ocean beats relentlessly against its shore while Mount Errigal stands staunchly in the background. Fishing is world famous here and the rivers and lakes teem with trout and salmon. Donegal is an example of true Ireland. Traditional handcraft, such as weaving, have been passed down from generation to generation. Animals, water and traditions run wild and deep in Donegal. Horseback riding through the bogs, along mountain trails and galloping over the moors is a favorite equestrian past time.

Things to see and do while in Donegal include golf, water sports and an assortment of ancient ruins, such as the Neolithic tombs in Killbegs. Donegal alone can provide the history buff with enough tales and legends to fill a few books. Visitors can purchase beautiful hand woven tweed in Ardara, stop in a local pub for a refreshing pint or visit the village of Rathmullan where Red Hugh O’Donnell was kidnapped back in 1607. Outdoor sports of all kinds flourish here just as they do across most of Ireland. The love of the country side and the outdoors is easily seen in the Irish.

County Leitrim

Have you ever heard the song “Lovely Leitrim?” If so, then you will know exactly what they are talking about when you tour Leitrim County. Trails and paths make hiking or cycling a pleasure. The fishing in County Leitrim is excellent and you can spend many a quiet rest hour with a pole in hand along a beautiful riverside. While not as big as some of the other counties, County Leitrim makes up for it in the natural beauty it has to offer to those who care to take the time to enjoy it.

County Sligo

The history of this county goes back more than six thousand years. Famous Irish writer, W.B. Yeats is buried in County Sligo at Drumcliff. There are a plethora of ancient ruins to explore. Forts, tombs, crannogs and ring forts await the amateur archeologist. History buffs will be able to spend days soaking up the history of a people whose background is as colorful as some of the tartans they wear. Look for the county Heritage Center for genealogical records particular to the region and other insight into region’s history.