Cork is the southernmost and largest county and like its rival Kerry is also in Munster. The area is known as “The Rebel County” after the role Cork played in the Irish War of Independence. Ilnacullin (Garinish Island) is a very popular tourist attraction which is known for its natural beauty and scenery. Here you will find wonderful tropical plants, beautiful Italian gardens and the distinctive Martello Tower. Animal lovers should also visit ‘Fota Wildlife Park’, the 70 acre site is not like a normal zoo – all the animals roam freely.
The Aran Islands are a collection of three islands which are nestled at the mouth of Galway Bay. The beautiful and isolated islands have attracted and inspired many Irish artists and poets over the years (including the leading artists Seán Keating and Liam O’Flaherty). Aside from the unique weather-battered landscapes other notable attractions include several Iron Age forts and Teampull Bheanáin which is considered to be the smallest church in the world.
Located on the banks of the Boyne, Brú na Boinne is World Heritage Site and one of the largest and most important prehistoric megalithic sites in Europe. The collection of chamber tombs, standing stones, and henges predate the Egyptian pyramids and go by the names of Dowth, Knowth and Newgrange. The latter two can only be visited by a tour where if you want to take your time can last up to half a day each.
The scenery surrounding the county town of Sligo is extraordinarily beautiful, especially the coastline. The Knocknarea Mountain dominates the landscape and here you will find a 40 foot high stone cairn which is the mythical burial place of the legendary Queen Maeve of Connaught. Make sure you include a visit to Carrowmore – the largest stone age cemetery in Ireland and the village of Drumcliff which is the final resting places of the famous poet W.B.Yeats. Sligo is also a great area to try out some surfing – the Irish way!
