Ireland

Straight away, you are in the heart of the Irish countryside - a land of timelessness and space. Dramatic landscapes, idyllic lakes and waterways, and stunning coastlines constantly change in appearance as the skies towering overhead cast their magical spell.

Relics of an eventful past and a traditional way of life abound. Historic castles, ancient forts and monuments, quaint villages, stone-encircled fields and old customs combine to create a memorable visitor experience.

Aside from the lure of the wild and the historic past, all the ingredients for an exceptional holiday exist in the West, North West and Shannon Regions. There are fine facilities for both land and water-based active pursuits. Interesting options are available for weekend breaks or longer, more leisurely stays. Accommodation choices range from luxury castles and hotels to welcoming farmhouses and town and country homes.

The Western Regions of Ireland are renowned for their rich cultural heritage and are widely acknowledged as the spiritual home of traditional Irish music. There are many opportunities to listen to its greatest exponents in pubs full of character and in other centres.

The Heart of Rural Ireland

There are many good reasons to visit Ireland's Western Regions but, undoubtedly, one of the most compelling is that its rural landscape offers an opportunity to sample the very best that nature can produce.

From the mystical islands off the western seaboard, that conjure up images of earlier civilisations, to the beautiful and tranquil Shannon and Erne waterways, there is an abundance of sights and experiences waiting to be explored.

Rugged mountains, long sandy beaches, beautiful lakes, impressive rock terrains or lush green pasturelands lie around almost every corner. A trek through the unspoilt countryside on uncrowded roads, whether by car, on foot or bicycle, is an adventure that offers endless possibilities.

As you traverse Ireland's Western Regions, you will also come across one of our great distinguishing features - Gaeltacht or Irish-speaking regions that comprise extensive areas of Counties Donegal, Mayo, Galway and Kerry. Here Irish is still spoken as a living community language, continuing a linguistic tradition that stretches back centuries.

Festivals and Fun, amongst Friends

Festivals bring fun and colour to the streets, and there are theatrical and concert offerings aplenty, together with good food and exciting night-time entertainment. The area also has a strong literary tradition, epitomised tty writers such as Patrick Kavanagh, J.M. Synge and W.B. Yeats.

Above all, you are assured of a warm Irish welcome. While touring the sylvan byways or the interesting towns, villages and cities, you'll encounter a people always ready to have a chat or offer a friendly word of advice. You'll be among friends.

In short, Ireland's Western Regions have something to offer the most discerning visitor. And, importantly, getting there is simple: you can fly directly to a number of airports and, if you travel by ferry, train, bus or car, access is easy.