The Southeast has some of the finest farmland in Ireland, and also has some very fine mountains for walking. The Comeragh and Monavullagh mountains have rather boggy summit plateaux, but this is more than counterbalanced by the very beautiful glacial cirques, now filled with lakes, which fringe them.

Northwest of them are the Galty Mountains, a long range with fine summits, of which Galtymore is the highest and, at 919 metres, one of the highest peaks outside County Kerry. To walk the full length of this range is a great day's experience.

Facing the Galtys across a wide fertile valley is the Knockmealdown range; it too

has fine summits, giving a good, but less demanding walk than the Galty ridge.

These three ranges are the main attractions for walkers, but there are several smaller mountain areas - the Blackstairs, isolated Slievenamon, and the Ballyhoura Mountains - to attract the walker. The Southeast is well served with Waymarked Ways. Coming down from the direction of Dublin, the South Leinster Way brings you across the Blackstairs Mountains and down the Barrow Valley to the Comeragh Mountains. The East Munster Way takes you along the lower slopes of the Comeraghs and the Knockmealdowns, and the Blackwater Way will deliver you to County Kerry. There is also the Ballyhoura Way, partly in the mountains, partly across the fertile Glen of Aherlow, and lastly the Barrow towpath, which leads gently along the back of this very beautiful river.

One of Ireland's very special places, Altamont House and Gardens are now in State care and managed by Duchas - The Heritage Service. The extensive gardens - there are three distinct sections or elements - are the work of succeeding generations of the Wilson family and were first laid down almost two hundred years ago. A delightful formal garden, adjacent to the house, leads to the lake area which is a gem in itself. Rare indeed is he who is not totally captivated by the sheer beauty and splendor of this 19th century, man-made creation. This in turn leads to a very different garden - the rough or wild garden which features many rare and most interesting shrubs and trees from many countries - the result of members of the family's travels over the last two hundred years. This in turn finally leads to the awesome and dramatic Ice Age Glen overlooking the River Slaney with its delightful riverside walk.

A field monument of huge proportions, the capstone is believed to be the largest in Europe. The location, setting and purpose of this Megalithic structure have been the subject of conjecture for centuries. Most likely it marks the burial place of a local king of long ago but has been invested with a rich overlay of myth and legend.

Operated by the Old Carlow Society, the museum displays, in a series of shop layouts, aspects of early 19th and 20th century domestic and commercial life in the Carlow area. Fine display of Celtic artifacts found locally.

Located in Clonegal, sometimes referred to as the Switzerland of Ireland, Huntington Castle was an early O'Kavanagh stronghold. In the 17th century it was largely destroyed. The famous Esmonde family rebuilt it in 1625 and they later added a number of additional features to the building. There is an ancient vine in the conservatory, a Temple to the goddess Iris in the basement; indeed the entire building is filled with family memorabilia and features, which makes for a fascinating visit. Out of doors, the gardens have been extensively restored and feature some items of great interest, chief among these are the remarkable yew tree avenue, a lime tree walk and water features, innovative for their day, in the extensive pleasure grounds.

With panoramic vies of the Wicklow Hills and Mount Leinster, Lisnavagh was originally designed and the gardens laid out by Daniel Robertson in the 1850's. The Victorian Gothic mansion has since been much reduced. The gardens have ten acres of Pleasure Grounds, mixed borders and a magnificent rhododendrons, azaleas,, camellias, embothriums and many other unusual plants aswell as some spectacular Irish Yews. There is also a large walled garden with peacocks strutting amongst old fruit trees. An additional attraction are the endless woodland walks with all sorts of wildlife for the more adventurous.

The present St. Laserian's Cathedral is a 13th century building of great charm. It replaced a 7th century monastery which once accommodated 1,500 monks. This site was the location for a church synod in 630AD. This historic gathering decided on the formula which was to determine the dates of Easter each year for all of the western Church and which remains in use to this day. Nearby is the very ancient 7th century Cross of Saint Laserian and his hold well, which continues to be venerated and attract votive offerings some 14th centuries after his death.

Rath-wood Home and Garden World is an extensive garden center where everyone from the green fingered to the fledging gardener can receive advice and assistance. The Garden Furniture and Horticulture section has expanded rapidly with Rath-wood's own range of unique garden furniture finding favor with customers. From children's playhouses to a variety of patio tables and chairs, from a relaxing hammock to an interesting garden feature such as an ornamental gazebo, all will be found in the extensive and well equipped Rath-wood Garden Center. Depending on the time of year, various themes spread right throughout the spacious store, creating an Aladdin's cave of marvelous gift ideas for your home and garden. The Rath-wood restaurant offers a full lunch menu, Monday to Saturday with a delicious array of home baking to tempt you.

A wandering farmhouse garden on one acre nestling under the foothills of Mount Leinster, the farmhouse has been lived in by the Smyth Family since it was built 400 years ago. In the grounds are fine garden areas with a wide variety of many rare plants, shrubs and trees. There is limited access for wheelchairs and children should be supervised. Depending on the season we can supply limited plants and cuttings for sale and are always pleased to discuss your garden plans and ideas. Afternoon tea is provided - for groups with prior notice only. The proceeds of admissions is in aid of the Cancer home care team and goes towards the upkeep and maintenance of the garden.

A 17th century, two storey thatched mansion - the home of Lory Meagher, hurling hero of the 1920's. Restored 5to the 1884 period, it provides an insight into the lifestyle of a wealthy Irish farming family of that period. Heroes of Hurling is an exhibition center and museum dedicated to Co. Kilkenny's many exploits in Gaelic Games. House in an adjoining, restored stone building, its four separate display areas provide a wealth of sporting history with a unique collection of trophies and other mementos of the ancient sport.

History and geology blend at Dunmore Cave to give an interesting and unique situation. Consisting of a series of chambers formed over millions of years, the cave contains some of the finest calcite formations found in any Irish cave. The cave has been known to man for many centuries and is first mentioned in the 9th century Irish Triads. The most interesting reference however, comes from the Annals which tells of a Viking massacre at the cave in the year 928 AD. Exhibitions and displays in the Visitor Center. The cave is inaccessible for wheelchair users. Visitors are advised to wear suitable footwear.

An outstanding Cistercian abbey founded in the second half of the 12th century. The church with its Romanesque details dates from this periods. In the transept chapels the visitor can see 13th -16th century tomb sculpture. The tower and cloister date from the 15th century. The chief delight of the abbey is the sculptured cloister arcade with unique carvings. The Visitor Center houses an interesting exhibition. Access for visitors with disabilities to the Visitor Center. While the Abbey remains open, building improvements may be ongoing to existing facilities on site in 2002.

Built by prosperous merchant John Rothe in 1594, the building was soon enlarged to accommodate his family of 12 children. Second and third houses were built around cobbled courtyards and a well dating to 1604. The fa‡ade houses shops, one of them was John rothe's own emporium. The second generatiion and their families shared facilities like the well and the brewhouse. The house would have been very comfortably furnished by the standards of the day. Within the house are various exhibitions from folk to costume and accessories. The Society Library and County Genealogical Research Service for Kilkenny is located at Rothe House.

Completed in 1285, the second longest cathedral in Ireland. On view are rich carvings, worked in both timber and stone, some dating to the 13th century, colorful stained glass and everywhere the authentic air of a structure that has served the community for over 800 years. Ninth century round tower which may be climbed (weather permitting). Conducted tours available.

This collegiate church was built in the late 13th century on the site of an earlier monastery. The church was a large and elaborate structure, with an aisled nave (where the congregation sat) and a long chancel (where the altar was placed) and has high quality, architectural sculpture used throughout. In the late middle ages a massive tower was inserted between the nave and the chancel. The 19th century this tower was incorporated into the parish church which was built in place of the chancel and which now takes up about half of the building. Restricted access for visitors with disabilities.

Enjoy an hour's strolling introduction to Kilkenny city's many historic and architectural delights, accompanied by a humorous and informative guide. Tynan tours were appointed official tour guides of Medieval Kilkenny in 1985 by the city authorities. Tours depart from the Tourist Office.

During the Great Famine, The Warhouse was the scene of the Young Irelanders rising of 1848. The house exhibits the story of the Rising and political exile of the Young Irelanders, in Australia and America, in the context of the Great Famine and Europe's year of revolutions. Here rebels under the leadership of the Protestant Nobleman, William Smith-O'Brien besieged police who had barricaded themselves into the Widow McCormack's farmhouse, taking five of her children hostage. The exhi9bition covers the trial and political exile of the leaders. Access to the ground floor for visitors with disabilities.

Ballaghmore Castle is a unique and beautiful place. Situated in beautiful countryside, with its renowned fishing, shooting, riding, hunting, hill walking, mountain climbing and golf. Grainne has hosted weddings, medieval banquets, private parties, clan gatherings, student groups and early Irish musical concerts, etc. Set in 30 acres, it provides privacy and peace. Ballaghmore Castle can be rented weekly or weekends, for private parties, weddings etc. Self catering or staffed, also the Manor House attached B&B and Rose Cottage.

Scenically located on the southern slopes of romantic Slieve-na-Mon, Ballyknockane Lodge is a delightful, interesting wild garden of great charm. Transversed by deep, sheer river courses, the overall impression is of grandeur when set against the stunning views over the Golden Vale fa4r below. Rhodendrums and other shrubs compete for space and your attention in this garden set against the fine building of Ballyknocken Lodge itself.

Bru Boru is a national heritage center at the foot of the Rock of Cashel. This cultural village is designed around a village green and is a home to the study and celebration of native Irish music, song, dance, theatre and Celtic studies. It has a folk theatre, genealogy center, restaurant and other amenities.

Bru Boru traditional group have performed worldwide. They represented Ireland at Expo 90 Japan and Expo 92 Spain. The perform for conferences and other events. They have performed on many television networks worldwide. Bru Boru performed in China in Autumn in 1998 having received an official invitation from the Chinese Government.

The Pre-Reformation burial ground and church site of Carrick Mor (Big Carrick) feature the former Protestant Church, now restored as a Heritage Center. Many interesting gravestones including a memorial to Thomas Butler and illegitimate son of Thomas, 10th Earl of Ormonde. Buried here also is Dorothea Herbert (1770-1829), author of "Retrospections". Numerous local artifacts and photographs on display. Also on display is the 17th century Duke of Ormonde Church Plate Collection.

Cashel Folk village is a delightful series of informal reconstructions of various traditional thatched village shops, a forge and other businesses, together with a penal Chapel situated in a confine area within the town of Cashel, near to the famed Rock of Cashel. An extensive display of signs and other commercial memorabilia add to the appeal of this pleasant display of local history.

A magical combination of numerous plants, shrubs and trees, some quite rare with quaint water features. The display features a range of conjectural reconstructions of ancient field monuments drawn from Ireland's romantic past all presented in a delightful setting with meandering pathways and ever present bird and wildlife. The pathways and displays add great interest to a visit to this location in the Historic Dundrum village and just a mile from Marl Bog forest park and fishing area. A well stocked and very extensive garden center complete the range of attractions at Celtic Plantarum.

Housed in an elegant 19th century building, this exhibition tells the story of Gaelic games through legendary times to the present day. It includes hurling, football, camogie and handball. Lar Na Pairce has it's own Hall of Fame, with life-size models of the greatest hurlers and footballer's along with the first GAA computer data-base. There is also an 18 minute audio-visual presentation capturing the skill, excitement and color of the games and many other full size recreations. Tipperary GAA merchandise shop attached.

The Cathedral is a magnificent 18th century building designed by the leading architect of Georgian Waterford, John Roberts. It is situated on the site of the medieval cathedral and contains many interesting features associated with this historic location, as well as being a place of worship in the center of the City.

Magnificent home of the Marquis of Waterford and his ancestors since 1170. The interior of the house contains exceptionally fine plasterwork. Grounds include outstanding Arboretum, shell grotto, built and personally decorated by Catherine Poer, Countess of Tyrone in 1754 and a bridge built in 1205 for King John to cross the River Clodagh.

Almost the definitive example in these Islands of an Estate town, Lismore has, in recent years taken the firm decision to project a pride of place linked with a deep sense of history. A heritage center in the former Courthouse lies at the core of this historic town which invites and richly repays unhurried exploration of it's streetscape, majestic Castle Gardens, ancient Church and Cathedral. In the Lismore Heritage Center the town's Celtic origins are on view in the historical display room. The story of Lismore, dating from 636AD, is told in an award winning multi-lingual, audio-visual presentation narrated by Niall Tobin. Hear about monastic Lismore, Vikings, Normans, Walter Rale3ight, Lismore Castle, Cathedral and Church.

Reginald's Tower is a circular tower, part of the town's defences, built in the beginning of the 13th century, with a second phase in the 15th century. It was also used as a mint, prison and military store. It has been restored and now houses an exhibition. Ask the guide on site about discounts to other non-Duchas sites in the area. Access to ground floor only for visitors with disabilities.

Tramore House dates from the late 1880's and would have had a fine Victorian garden in its heyday. The Victorian garden hs been restored and will take two to three years to fully mature. The formal garden in front of the house has been replanted using boxwood, roses, catmint, lavender and clematis. A series of paths lead through the wooded slopes to the waterbasin, canal and rock garden. A herbaceous border follows the main route through the garden and a shrub border will provide shelter from the sea air. A gazebo, garden seats, the grottos and the waterside plantings and eventually the bedding schemes will convey the exuberance of the Victorian garden.

A two acre romantic scented garden. Twice featured on TV and judged "Best in Co. Wexford" in the last Shamrock National Gardens Competition. There are gravel and woodland areas, terraces, pergola, gazebo, mixed borders in soft colors, ponds, lavish planting around a little stream and over 70 varieties of clematis.

The National 1798 Visitor Center, an award winning center, offers a fascinating insight into the birth of modern democracy in Ireland. The family friendly center tells the epic and heroic tale of the 1798 Rebellion and its aftermath using the latest multi-media and interactive computers and a spectacular audio-visual presentation. Lively new exhibition techniques are used to give visitors a glimpse of our fascinating journey to modern democracy. After your tour, relax in our bright, airy tea room or browse around the well stocked craft shop. The center is fully accessible for visitors with disabilities. Coach parking and caf‚ facilities are available to non-patrons.

Ballyhack Castle is located on a steep slope in a commanding position overlooking Waterford estuary. The castle, a large tower house, is though to have been built c. 1450 by the Knights Hospitallers of St. John, one of the two great military orders founded at the beginning of the 12th century at the time of the Crusades. The site is accessed by a wooden stairway.

The Farm is set in beautiful countryside and is a working farm run by the Hickey Family for four generations. On the farm we grow corn and vegetables, rear sheep and deer and have various other animals. You can see all this, a nature reserve and some historical items during a one-hour walk through the woods and fields. Through the sights, sounds and smells of the countryside, experience our natural heritage - the land. Ballylane Farm, a member of the RDS/Bord Failte approved "Top Visitor of Ireland" is a family run 150 acre working farm set in the heart of rolling green countryside. Attractions include 1hour walk, as you view tillage, deer, sheep, woodland, wildlife, etc. The walk is along stone paths. It is suitable for buggies and prams but is not practical for wheelchairs. During the walk visitors can feed deer with food that is supplied. Seated in the Horseshoe (converted power house) or Parlor (one time milking parlor), visitors can select from the home produced menu: soup, salads, sandwiches and dessert. Also served are scones and homemade jam, cakes, tea and coffee.