Explore Ireland
Once you have had your fill of Dublin set of for the rest of Ireland where you will discouver rolling lush countryside, ancient castles, faboulous beaches, top-class golf courses, friendly bed and breakfasts and pretty villages.

A great option for first time visitors to Ireland is to take a tour. There are many different tour types available that will take you on a wonderful trip around the island visiting a variety of sacred and historical locations and breathtaking scenery. If you would like to experience the spiritual and mystical side of Ireland, learning about its folklore and spiritual sites Celtic Mystical Journeys offers a number of tours throughout the year. Their tours will take you to magical locations such as the High Crosses, Clonmacnoise and the famous Blarney Castle. If you enjoy Celtic history trips Celtic Mystical Journeys also visits of countries with a strong Celtic heritage including tours of England, Scotland and France.

Throughout Ireland you will be able to experience many different activities such as hiking, sailing, fishing, swimming, horsebackriding, surfing, golf and more. Click here for Information about activities in Ireland.

Country Cork

Cork is located in the south of Ireland and is one if Ireland's largest counties. There are many great activities in the area and interesting places to explore.

East Cork includes the section of Cork from Cork City east to the border of Waterford. There are endless churches, old castles and golfing opportunities in this region. You can also participate in scenic walking tours. To find out all the details about visiting this region of Ireland please visit the official East Cork Tourism site where you find specific details about attractions and where they are happy to help you with any tourism questions.

County Kerry

Kerry is once of the prettiest counties in Ireland here you can discover mountains, rugged coastline and long sandy beaches. When you are in the countryside it can be a great idea to stay in a local bed and breakfast, as your hosts will be able to point you in the direction of local sites. While in Kerry you could consider the Cashen Course Guesthouse. This is a luxury 4 star, 5 Diamond AA accommodation overlooking the fantastic Ballybunion Golf Course, the perfect play to stay if you are travelling with a golf lover. The standard of accommodation is of a very high standard with all your comforts being thought of. They even offer some special Tee Time packages.

County Louth

The small county of Louth is situated on the east coast of Ireland north of Dublin County and bordering Northern Ireland. This area has some lovely countryside that you can explore. One area of particular interest is Carlingford Lough where you can enjoy the relaxing coastal village of Carlingford, which caters to a number of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and fishing. Louth is also the location of many interesting archaeological finds and it is said to the birthplace of one of Ireland's most famous legends, Cuchulain. You can also explore some fantastic castles, towers, dolmens and forts that date back to the 12th century.

Louth is also an ideal location for a golf vacation. Located in the countryside north of Dundalk you will find the Best Western Ballymascanlon House Hotel which offers a high standard of accommodation in a beautiful Victorian house which is situated on the estate of Ballymascanlon. The estate dates back to 833ad and is the site of the 4,000 year old Proleek Stone a great attractions for the hotels guests.

County Meath

Located only half an hour from Dublin Airport you can rent a charming seaside cottage in Bettystown, Co. Meath. Cottages Ireland offers six cottage for vacation rentals. The cottages are 300 years old and decorated to a very high standard. Nearby you will find lovely sandy beaches, fishing, golf, Slane Castle and a number of other excellent and popular attractions. For more details on renting one of these cottages please use the link above to visit the website.

Family Roots
Many people that come to Ireland on vacation will also be exploring their family roots by visiting the counties and villages their ancesters came from. Here are some helpful resources that can help you with your search.

Ulster families may want to get in touch with Family Ulster. Family Ulster provides a step-by-step guide for doing your family research. They can also put you in touch with important records that could provide you with that missing link. Also as part of their service they will travel to cemeteries, houses and more to get you pictures of the area. Great if you are unable to fit everything into your Ireland vacation.

Irish History and Historical Photographs
Through Old Irish Images you can discover the Ireland of a hundred years ago. There are many pictures from around Ireland of scenic places, historical sites and many aspect of Irish life. It will also give you a great insight to the Ireland that your ancestors grew up in. You can also get a look at the great Michael Collins who is one of Ireland's most loved and famous historical figures.