South

Fishing

The South is particularly good for catching salmon, brown trout, bream, rudd, tench, dace and roach, making the region a fisherman’s paradise whether your line is deep-sea fishing, shore fishing, game fishing or coarse angling.

Glen of Aherlow Walking Festival County Tipperary

The annual, two-day Glen of Aherlow Walking Festival is the perfect way to enjoy this secluded valley, which stretches through 16 miles of unspoilt countryside.

Golf

You can enjoy a burst of fresh sea air and magnificent lush surrounds by teeing off in St Helen’s Bay in County Wexford; Ballybunion Cashen and Ballybunion Old Course, County Kerry; Dingle Links, County Kerry; Fota Island in County Cork; Tralee Golf Club and Waterville Golf Links, County Kerry; Faithlegg in County Wexford, Mount Juliet in County Kilkenny and Mount Wolseley in County Carlow.

Horse racing

Enjoy top class racing at Mallow and Killarney, as well as show-jumping at Millstreet, County Cork.

Horse riding

With miles of sandy beaches, beautiful coastline, spectacular scenery and unspoilt countryside, the South is perfect for an equestrian holiday.

Nire Valley Annual Walking Festival County Tipperary

You can take your time walking alongside the Nire river as it tumbles down through this valley from its source high up in the Comeragh mountains, to the smooth flowing Suir river near Newcastle.

Sailing

The Royal Cork Yacht Club is the oldest yacht club in the world and was established back in 1720. It offers a safe and sheltered harbour for sailing vessels of all sizes. Alternatively, learn the ropes at the County Waterford Harbour Sailing Club, boasting a mixture of dinghy sailors, cruiser sailors, motorboat enthusiasts and “social sailors” amongst its members.

Walking

The South’s landscape of valleys and hills is ideal for walking and cycling. In particular, explore the Leinster Way, the Ring of Kerry, the Wexford Coastal Path or pretty much anywhere along the wild Atlantic coastline.

Watersports

Popular activities across the region include canoeing, surfing sea kayaking and scuba diving.

Dolphin Watch, County Kerry

The magnificent Kerry coastline looks stunning from the sea, and you can ride the waves in search of local dolphins who hang about the area. The most famous is, of course, Funghi, Dingle’s resident dolphin for the last 20 years.

Duncannon International Sand Sculpting Festival, County Wexford

Marvel at the incredible pieces sculpted from sand. This festival is a great event and now includes daily children’s activities, and a Hawaiian beach party.

Dursey Island Cable Car, Beara Way, County Cork

Test whether you’ve got a head for heights with Ireland’s only cable car service, which brings you to an island of remarkable scenic beauty and total tranquility.

Kennedy’s Pet Farm & Playground, County Kerry

This working dairy and sheep farm also has a huge variety of other animals such as deer, pigs and calves, which can be handled and fed by visitors.

Killarney Model Railway, County Kerry

This is one of the largest model railways in the world, with more than 50 trains running through a miniature European landscape.

Mitchelstown Cave, County Tipperary

An amazing tour through several caverns spread out over a 3km stretch of caves.

Nore Valley Park and Open Farm, County Kilkenny

There are treasure hunt mazes, go-karts and crazy golf here, but the animals always prove the biggest hit with the kids, and children are welcome to feed the lambs, chicks, rabbits, ducks and deer.

Perks Family Entertainment Centre, County Cork

Kids can really let their hair down at Perks with funfair rides, snooker, 10-pin bowling, pool and games to entertain them for hours.

Samhlaíocht Arts Festival & Bumble Bee Children’s Festival, County Kerry

“Celebrating the Art of Kerry’s Imagination”, this four day annual event showcases the best in arts, carnival and film, with lots of events for children.

Schull Planetarium, Schull, County Cork

The only planetarium in Ireland with a number of stunning star shows.

Splash World, County Waterford

Go for a leisurely swim or relax and unwind in the warm, soothing therapeutic bubble pool, while the kids splash around under the watchful eye of fully trained lifeguards.

Waterford Spraoi Street Festival, County Waterford

A colourful music and arts festival for all the family with the emphasis on showcasing national and international street theatre and world music.

Carlow Autumn Walking Festival County Carlow

This walking festival allows experienced walkers to enjoy the invigorating challenge of County Carlow’s mountain treks, while novices will find peace and tranquility on quiet country routes.

Cashel Summer Festival, County Tipperary

Cashel comes alive each July with this enjoyable event that encompasses live music, free outdoor concerts, literary events, competitions, art exhibitions and theatre.

Cork Choral Festival

One of Europe’s premier choral festivals, the Cork Choral Festival is held annually in Cork City Hall and attracts around 5,000 participants each year. Enjoy four whole days of music in early May.

Cork Film Festival

Cork explodes with all things film-related in October as Ireland’s film fraternity descends on the city. Expect an eclectic selection of films from around the world, and a pure party atmosphere.

Cork Jazz Festival

Every year this festival entertains around 40,000 revelers with a host of excellent local and international artists. A must for jazz fans.

Crawford Municipal Art Gallery, County Cork

The city art museum, located right in the heart of Cork City in a stunning building welcomes more than 200,000 visitors a year. The collection comprises over 2,000 works from 18th-century Irish and European painting and sculpture through to modern video installations.

Dunmore East Green Dragon Festival, County Waterford

Relax in the pretty surrounds of this picturesque seaside town while enjoying a fusion of Welsh and Irish traditional music and art.

Glen of Aherlow Walking Festival County Tipperary

The annual, two-day Glen of Aherlow Walking Festival is the perfect way to enjoy this secluded valley, which stretches through 16 miles of unspoilt countryside.

JFK Dunbrody Festival, County Wexford

An action-packed three days with free gigs, exhibitions, street theatre and more. The centrepiece is the beautiful Dunbrody ship anchored at the quays.

Kilkenny City

This charming 13th-century city was the ancient capital of Ireland and is bursting with historic buildings, shops, design galleries and restaurants – there really is something for everyone.

Kilkenny Rhythm and Roots Festival, County Kilkenny

A highlight in Ireland's musical calendar, this excellent festival incorporates Americana, country, blues, alternative, folk, rockabilly and western swing.

Killarney Summer Racing Festival, County Kerry

The Killarney Race meeting provides a great opportunity to sample the Irish passion for horse racing.

Nire Valley Annual Walking Festival County Tipperary

You can take your time walking alongside the Nire river as it tumbles down through this valley from its source high up in the Comeragh mountains, to the smooth flowing Suir river near Newcastle.

Rose of Tralee, County Kerry

This isn’t just a beauty pageant, it’s a full-on festival. More than 200,000 visitors from all over the world flock to Tralee for the annual arts festival and, of course, the crowning of the Rose of Tralee.

Siamsa Tire (The National Folk Theatre), Tralee, County Kerry

Founded in 1974, Siamsa Tire’s mission is to present Ireland's wealth of music, dance and folklore drawing on traditions and a rich cultural past.

Smithwicks Cat Laughs Comedy Festival

The cream of international comedy acts descend on Kilkenny for what has been called “the best little comedy festival in the world”.

The World Fleadh, Ballybunion, Co Kerry

A seven day international-Irish festival, which takes place in August 2006, featuring concerts and master classes by a fabulous collection of performers within the Irish and Celtic music traditions.

Waterford Light Opera Festival, County Waterford

Originally conceived for the production of light opera, the festival has expanded to include popular West End and Broadway musicals and original shows.

Wexford Hooves and Grooves Festival, County Wexford

An annual celebration featuring live music, horse racing, a rowing regatta, street theatre, open-air markets and more.

Wexford Opera Festival, County Wexford

For three months every autumn, Wexford town explodes with a much-loved opera festival with excellent productions and unique shows.

Churchtown House, County Wexford

Churchtown House was associated with some of Wexford’s most powerful families and is now an award-winning guesthouse.

Coolbawn Quay, Tipperary

Nestling on the eastern shores of Lough Derg this unique private retreat offers a range of luxury accommodation in village rooms, lakeshore and house suites. Enjoy cosy furnishings, secluded gardens and turf fires, or experience utter relaxation in the tranquil spa.

Dick Mack’s, Dingle, County Kerry

Dingle’s full of excellent pubs, but among the most charming is definitely Dick Mack’s. Sit back, enjoy the atmosphere.

Dundrum House Hotel, County Tipperary

Set in the heart of the Golden Vale, close to the Rock of Cashel, this elegant Georgian manor affords a relaxing country retreat.

Hayfield Manor Hotel, County Cork

Voted AA Irish Hotel of the year 2003/2004, this five-star hotel is in the heart of Cork City, and has the look and feel of a large period house with all the trimmings.

Killarney Park Hotel & Spa, County Kerry

Set in the heart of Killarney town, this five-star family hotel is renowned for its elegance and its luxurious spa.

Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa, County Kerry

This elegant hotel enjoys a wonderful location in Killarney and is home to the zen-like Molton Brown Spa with a host of innovative treatments in a Japanese-style environment.

Kinsale, County Cork

Known as one of Ireland’s gourmet food towns, Kinsale is a delightful little spot that draws foodies in their droves. Tickle your tastebuds with the Kinsale Festival of Autumn Flavours in October, gorge on sublime seafood at the Fishy Fishy Café, or spend an evening in the elegant surrounds of the much-lauded Casino House restaurant in nearby Kilbrittain.

Midleton Farmers Market, Midleton, County Cork

A highly regarded farmer’s market selling the very best local produce including gourmet sandwiches, Irish farmhouse cheeses and exceptional salamis.

Pubs, Kilkenny City

Kilkenny is full of old-fashioned, atmospheric pubs that have made it a major party town. Try a pint of local Kilkenny beer at the Marble City Bar, Jim Hollands, Matthew Duggan’s, John Cleere’s and Caislean ui Cuain.

Sheen Falls Lodge, Kenmare, County Kerry

A privately owned, five-star country house hotel in Kenmare, set in 300 acres of beautiful woodland, which provides a luxurious setting for fishing, walking or horseriding.

The Brehon, County Kerry

A new four-star hotel situated across from Killarney National Park is home to the first European Angsana Spa.

The Dingle Skellig Hotel, County Kerry

Situated on the most westerly peninsula in Europe, this hotel and spa has a longstanding reputation for comfort, hospitality and service

The English Market, Cork City

This Victorian market building is worth its own visit, but you can’t miss the fresh local produce including meat, poultry, fish and a range of cheeses and delicatessen items.

The Park Hotel Kenmare and Samas Spa, County Kerry

Set in a heavenly location overlooking Kenmare Bay, this five-star country house hotel is home to a deluxe destination spa with an international reputation.

The Ship Restaurant, Dunmore East, County Waterford

High-quality, super-fresh seafood is served up in this exceptionally popular seafood restaurant, which gets packed out most nights. The relaxed dining room has an atmosphere all of its own with laid-back Tudor-style surroundings.

Walton Court Country House Retreat & Spa, County Cork

Set on Oysterhaven Bay this Georgian house is a private country retreat and spa with a unique “club” atmosphere.

Loafer’s, 26 Douglas Street, Cork

Ireland’s oldest gay bar is a chilled out, laid-back type of place.

Outlook – Lesbian and Gay Film Festival, Cork

Part of the Murphy’s Cork Film Festival, Outlook showcases international gay and lesbian film annually in October.

Pride, Cork

Cork’s annual gay pride celebrations take place over the August Bank Holiday weekend with barbecues and parties.

Prism, 4 Keizer Street, Waterford

Every Wednesday from 8-10pm, you can get info, have a coffee, meet friends and pick up national gay and lesbian press.

The Other Place, St Augustine Street, Cork

Full-on parties on Friday, Saturday and Sunday with a predominately male crowd.

Brown Thomas, Cork

Elegant department stores specialising in top designer labels.

Chesneau Leather, The Old Creamery, Bennettsbridge, County Kilkenny

A sleek, modern and fashionable range of Irish leather bags and belts.

Coal Market, Cornmarket Street, Cork

A bustling, lively outdoor market on every Saturday with a mish-mash of goods from food to CDs and books.

English Market, Grand Parade, Cork

A must-visit for those with even a passing interest in excellent gourmet food.

Fado Antiques, Gifts and Gallery Framing, Dingle, County Kerry

As well as antiques, Fado stocks work from resident Dingle artist Patrick Hennessy.

Fleury Antiques, Cahir, Co Tipperary

A stunning array of high quality antiques with delivery worldwide available

Kilkenny Design Centre, Castle Yard, Kilkenny

Kilkenny stocks a good range of contemporary crafts, pottery, jewellery and clothing.

Ladies View Industries, Killarney, County Kerry

This little craft shop has to have the best view of any retailer in Ireland. Overlooking the Lakes of Killarney, it stocks knitwear, sheepskins, Celtic jewellery, rugs, linen and lace.

National Craft Gallery, Castle Yard, Kilkenny

A showcase for excellent Irish design.

Simone Walsh Irish Art & Design, 85 South Main Street, Wexford Town

Exciting and distinctive imagery from Simone’s exclusive range of paintings.

Stephen Pearce Pottery, Midleton, County Cork

This large store contains an extensive selection of work from renowned Irish potter Stephen Pearce, as well as other excellent crafts.

Youghal Pottery and Craft Centre, Foxhole, Youghal, County Cork

The largest selection of pottery styles by one workshop in Ireland, with textiles and ceramics also stocked.

Blasket Centre, County Kerry

This centre in Dun Chaoin on the tip of the Dingle Peninsula celebrates the Irish language and the people who once inhabited the Blasket Islands.

Brownshill Dolmen, County Carlow

This dolmen’s date of construction has been estimated at between 4,900 and 5,500 years ago, and at 100 tonnes, the capstone is the largest in Europe.

Cahir Castle, County Tipperary

Designed to be a state-of-the-art defensive castle, this is imposing 15th-century structure is one of Ireland’s best-preserved castles. Located on a rocky island in the River Suir, the castle’s attractions include an audio-visual presentation in several languages.

Charles Fort, Kinsale, County Cork

Constructed in the late 17th century, this is a classic example of a star-shaped fort. The magnificent fortress of 1677 is the largest military citadel in Ireland.

Cork City Gaol, Cork City

Unlock the past in a wonderfully preserved old gaol with life-sized wax figures representing different periods in Irish history.

Dingle Marine Eco Tours, County Kerry

A two-hour tour of the Dingle Peninsula incorporating archaeology, geology, history, birdlife, wildlife and local folklore.

Dunbrody Historic Emigrant Ship, New Ross, County Wexford

The magnificent Dunbrody is a full-scale replica of a ship built in 1845 for the Graves family of New Ross, which carried thousands of emigrants from Ireland to North America.

Dungarvan Castle, Dungarvan, County Waterford

Built by King John of England, the Castle was founded in 1185 on a strategic location at the mouth of the River Colligan, and is a typical example of a British Royal Castle. Access is by guided tour only.

Garnish Island, County Cork

Situated in the harbour of Glengarriff, Bantry Bay, Garnish Island covers 15 hectares and is a garden of rare beauty. Its sheltered location and position in the line of the Gulf Stream means that exotic plants have positively flourished.

Holycross Abbey, County Tipperary

Located in a magnificent setting on the banks of the River Suir, Holycross is an early 12th-century monastery. Before the close of the 12th century it was passed on to the Cistercians and became a place of pilgrimage for people from all over the Ireland.

Hook Head Peninsula, County Wexford

Located at the most southerly point of County Wexford, the Hook Peninsula is steeped in Norman history. The lighthouse is one of the oldest still operating in the world and with its stunning views, the area is perfect for a romantic picnic.

Huntington Castle and Gardens, Clonegal, County Carlow

Home of the Durdin-Robertson family, and continuously occupied since the original tower house was built in 1625, this exceptional castle is filled with fascinating family memorabilia and features.

Jerpoint Abbey, County Kilkenny

An outstanding Cistercian abbey founded in the second half of the 12th century, Jerpoint’s chief delight is the sculptured cloister arcade with unique carvings.

Kilkenny Castle, County Kilkenny

Kilkenny Castle has been an important site since Strongbow constructed the first castle, which was probably a wooden structure, in the 12th century. It remains in remarkable condition with many of its original features.

Killarney National Park, County Kerry

The natural attractions at this spectacular national park are second to none. Winding country roads traverse rocky mountains, sheep graze the craggy hills and the three stunning lakes of Killarney dot the dramatic landscape.

Mizen Head, County Cork

The Keeper's House and Engine Room, the Suspension Bridge and the 99 Steps are just some of what make the lighthouse at Ireland’s most south-westerly point magical.

Muckross House

Situated close to the shores of Muckross Lake in the beautiful surroundings of Killarney National Park, this house is a magnificent Victorian mansion and one of Ireland’s leading stately homes.

Reginald’s Tower, County Waterford

A tower has stood on this site for over a thousand years protecting the Quays of Waterford. The present structure dates from the 12th century and now houses an exhibition.

Ring of Kerry, County Kerry

The Ring of Kerry’s spectacular beauty is internationally renowned, offering some of the finest beaches in Europe, ancient monuments and a hotbed for those with a penchant for outdoor pursuits.

Rock of Cashel, County Tipperary

A spectacular medieval complex that contains a castle, a cathedral, a round tower and the remains of two churches, dating back to 1014AD.

Roscrea Castle, Tipperary

One of Ireland’s many heritage towns, Roscrea boasts an intriguing 13th-century stone castle with some furnished rooms and house exhibitions. Daily tours are available.

Ross Castle, Killarney, County Kerry

A perfect example of a 15th-century chieftain’s stronghold. The castle sits on the shores of Lough Leanne and was one of the last in the country to hold out against Cromwell.

Skellig Islands, County Kerry

The Skelligs rise abruptly from the sea and are home to a remarkable cluster of ecclesiastical ruins including six distinctive beehive cells in which monks of the Dark Ages lived.

St Canice’s Cathedral, Irishtown, County Kilkenny

The 13th-century Cathedral of St Canice is the second longest cathedral in Ireland. The site on which the cathedral stands has been a place of Christian worship since the sixth century.

St Mary’s Church, County Kilkenny

This collegiate church was built in the late 13th century on the site of an earlier monastery. Once large and impressive there are still examples of the high quality architectural sculpture used throughout.

Waterford Crystal, County Waterford

Perhaps the most famous crystal company in the world, Waterford Crystal was founded in 1783. Take a tour of the production process and browse through the tempting shop.

Waterford Treasures Museum, County Waterford

Waterford Museum of Treasures at the Granary brings together an extensive range of rare and beautiful artefacts that are brought to life by the latest technological innovations.