From left to right: Irish Country Quads, Hilton Park Gardens, Lough Muckno, The grounds of Castle Leslie

One of Ireland’s best-kept secrets, County Monaghan in north west Ireland is a haven of tranquil countryside, undulating hills, glassy lakes and bustling market towns. 

If you want to get away from it all then it’s the perfect spot to indulge in some scenic walking, angling, cycling or golf far away from the crowds and hassle. 

Culturally rich, Monaghan is also the birthplace of one of Ireland’s greatest poets, Patrick Kavanagh, and the county resounds with literary connections as well as a rich history, which has left its mark with Bronze Age megalithic sites and pre-historic remains. 

Make sure and visit the world-renowned Carrickmacross Lace Gallery and marvel at this delicate Irish craft, which dates back to 1816.