Ireland's East Coast

Feast your senses on spectacular scenary, fantastic city life, compelling historical sights and an atmosphere of fun and sponteneity that makes Ireland's East Coast one of the most unique vacation destinations in Europe

Counties: Cavan, Kildare, Laios, Longford, Louth, Meath, Monaghan, Offaly, Westmeath and Wicklow

Ireland's East Coast is home to a diverse mix of culture, history and lush green vistas and boasts such a wide variety of attractions that it will satisfy any traveler's appetite.

Vibrant and sophisticated, Dublin combines an energetic and youthful character with a wide variety of cultural attractions that befit its status as one of Europe's oldest cities.

With the rich wealth of natural and historical treasures found throughout the region and some of Ireland's finest heritage sites, both scholars and tourists will be excited by the surprises that await.

Ancient sites, such as prehistoric New Grange and the Hill of Tara in the Boyne Valley, County Meath, the ancient monastic settlement of Clonmacnoise at the crossroads of Ireland in County Offaly and a host of other historical venues provide plenty of attractions to fill any visitor's itinerary.

The country houses of Ireland's East Coast, together with restaurants, bed and breakfasts and hotels offer visitors a plethora of choices for accommodation and a medley of dining opportunities.

Known as 'The Garden of Ireland,' County Wicklow offers visitors a unique blend of spectacular scenery and beautiful and relaxing gardens. A trip to Powerscourt House and Gardens with its majestic terraces, formal gardens and ornamental lakes will certainly prove to be a relaxing and refreshing way to spend a summer's afternoon.

Ireland's East Coast is also home to many of Ireland's best equestrian facilities. The Curragh Racecourse in County Kildare is known as one of the greater race meets in Ireland, hosting prestigious meets that include the Darley Irish Oaks and the Irish Field St. Leger. Also in County Kildare is the Irish National Stud, home to some of Ireland's finest thoroughbreds, as well as the remarkable Japanese Gardens, which makes it a destination that has something for everyone.

As is the case throughout the island of Ireland, Ireland's East Coast provides plenty of opportunity for the golfer and is also the home of the K-Club in Straffan, County Kildare, host of the Ryder Cup in 2006.

From boating on the Shannon, fishing in the many rivers and lakes, to walking or cycling in the Wicklow Mountains or the spectacular Slieve Blooms in Counties Laois and Offaly, there's something for everyone on Ireland's East Coast

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