County Carlow

Carlow County, or Co. Ceatharlach as it is known to the Irish, is a beautiful place to begin your exploration of Ireland. Adventurous travelers can hang glide off of Mount Leintster, hunt, fish or, even golf. Carlow is a bustling shopping area where you can find everything from handmade lace to local food items. You can stroll though art galleries and museums. Tourists will find a number of popular castles and forts here.

County Kilkenny

If you enjoy the days of knights and Normans then you will love County Kilkenny. It teems with churches, forts and medieval ruins. There are several museums and galleries, including the National Centre for Crafts and Designs. Leisure activities, such as greyhound racing, fishing and golf are popular pastimes.

County Tipperary

Irish lore claims that St. Patrick once walked these brilliant green hills. The city of Cashel was once the Seat of Kings. History is ever present in this town where natives and visitors can learn about all things Celtic. Sights to see include thirteenth century Hore Abbey. Do not forget to visit Tipperary Town for a swift trip back in time to the twelfth century.

County Waterford

County Waterford is home to the world famous Waterford Crystal and Waterford Castle. Visitors will still hear the Gaelic dialect spoken in many areas of Waterford.

County Wexford

This lovely county has it all. The Blackstairs Mountains are located to the west and it is bordered by both the Irish Sea and the Celtic Sea. Forests, rivers, mountains and lots of green everywhere make it a wonderful place to spend a few days.

Wexford is typically busy with events and attractions that will appeal to the whole family. There are beaches where you can sun bathe along with wildlife sanctuaries and historic sights. A yearly Strawberry Festival and International Opera Festival provide special interest for some tourists. Visit the heritage town of Wexford to see firsthand what a ninth century Viking settlement was like when the Vikings ruled.

County Tipperary North

Lough Derg provides boating and fishing activities. Lough Derg is Ireland’s most inviting lake for water sports. Mountain climbing and hiking are other frequent choices for the physical traveler.