The West

With such a tranquil environment at every turn, this has to be one of the most idyllic locations in the world and every angler’s paradise.

Blessed with awe-inspiring scenery and amazing coastal roads, this is the perfect place to saddle up and enjoy exploring.

Dramatic and beautiful, the sheer Cliffs of Moher hold one of the major cliff nesting areas in Ireland. There are more than 20 species of nesting birds within the area, including nine species of breeding sea birds, making it a spectacular spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Meanwhile, The Eagles Flying Bird Sanctuary in Sligo offers a fantastic opportunity to experience some of the biggest birds of prey in their natural habitat.

With every level of experience catered for across the region, the West is a superb place to don your helmet and discover the wilds from horseback.

Make the most of the sublime landscape by painting it! There are three renowned art schools in the area: the Burren College of Art, The Burren Painting Centre and The Tin Jug Studio, County Offaly (++ 353 509 21818).

A variety of operators offer the chance to take a long, lazy cruise on the pretty River Shannon and Erne Waterways, Ireland’s largest waterway. Gently meandering through the unspoiled countryside on a boat is a fantastic way to experience the laid-back lifestyle for which Ireland is rightly famous.

Walking is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the West. A network of quiet country roads and lanes, forest paths and mountain trails will take you to the heart of the tranquil, picturesque Irish countryside, including the very beautiful Connemara Gaeltacht and the Cliffs of Slieve League in Donegal.