Ireland’s SOUTH EAST
Carlow Kilkenny Tipperary Waterford Wexford
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Welcome
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Ireland’s South East
Explore the South East of Ireland and discover a diverse landscape of rolling mountains, tranquil valleys and a coastline fringed with expanses of white sandy beaches and secluded coves. A land of rivers and meandering waterways peppered with historic towns and ancient ruins, foreboding castles and fine estate houses and gardens, it is a region steeped in history and intrigue. Recognising the huge potential of the region with its close proximity to Europe, extensive river system and fertile lands, the Vikings, and later the Normans, began an intense settlement of the South East resulting in the densest settlements of small historic towns and villages in Ireland. Set within breathtaking natural surrounds, historic towns like Lismore, Co. Waterford, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, Cashel, Co. Tipperary, St Mullins, Co. Carlow or Inistioge, Co. Kilkenny serve as reminders of the rich heritage of the South East. The coastline is a treasure trove of lively coastal towns and villages such as the fishing villages of Kilmore Quay, Co. Wexford, the seaside resorts of Dunmore East and Tramore, and the vibrant market town of Dungarvan in Co. Waterford.
Down through the centuries the largest townships of the South East – Waterford City, Kilkenny City and Wexford Town – existed and developed in relative isolation of each other giving rise to three very different urban centres, each with their own distinct personality and geographic setting. The port city of Waterford, the region’s capital, sits sheltered in a deep harbour, Kilkenny on the banks of the River Nore and Wexford on the shores of Wexford Bay. Today, these cities are bursting with contemporary restaurants, bars and cultural events, forming the economic and cultural core of the region, offering visitors complementary, yet distinct experiences all within a short distance.
Wander the cobbled laneways of Kilkenny, Ireland’s Medieval Capital, trace 1000 years of history in the museums and historic monuments of the Viking Triangle in Ireland’s oldest city Waterford, or visit the bustling coastal town of Wexford, with its narrow streets and broad quayside, home to the internationally acclaimed Wexford Opera House and Festival. Music, art, dance, theatre and crafts are at the heart of the region, with cities, towns and villages alive with festivals throughout the year. An area known for its exceptional standard of food producers and restaurants, the food heritage is celebrated during the many food festivals throughout the year, where you can taste the wonders of the South East. Galleries, workshops and craft trails are abundant in the cities, towns and even in the most secluded villages, proving that the South East is indeed a cultural oasis. An area of outstanding natural beauty, there is an abundance of activities on offer. The coastline is ideal for sailing, surfing and swimming, while scenic drives like the Copper Coast, Hook Peninsula and the River Barrow Heritage Drive are some of the best in the country. Anglers will experience some of Ireland’s finest fishing, while walkers and hikers will be welcomed by unsurpassed views from the summits of the region’s Blackstairs, Comeragh and Galtee Mountains.
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CULTURAL URBAN CENTRES
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Waterford City ‘Ireland’s Oldest City’
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Kilkenny City ‘Ireland’s Medieval Capital’
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Wexford Town ‘The County of Normans’
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10 WONDERS OF THE SOUTH EAST Kilkenny Castle & The Castles of the South East
Rock of Cashel & The Christian Heritage of the South East
Waterford Crystal Factory & The Indigenous Craft of the South East
Altamont Gardens & The Historic Houses and Gardens of the South East
Hook Lighthouse & Exploring Ireland's Past
Lismore Town
The South East is a land of hidden gems, culture and heritage, a place to experience contemporary Ireland set against a dramatic historical backdrop.
& The Heritage Towns of the South East
Wexford Opera Festival & The Eclectic Calendar of South East Festivals & Events
The Irish Pub & The Food and Cultural Entertainment of the South East
The Glen of Aherlow & The Great Outdoors of the South East
The Copper Coast & The Scenic Places of Beauty in the South East
GETTING HERE AND AROUND
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Cultural Urban Centres
The vibrant cities and towns of the South East offer visitors a taste of both old and contemporary Ireland. The region’s cultural urban centres comprise Ireland’s oldest city, Waterford, Ireland’s Medieval Capital, Kilkenny and Wexford, home of the world renowned Wexford Opera House.
Waterford City
Ireland’s Oldest City
Founded by the Vikings in the 9th-century, Waterford flourished into a powerful Norman stronghold. Curving medieval narrow streets and laneways are interspersed with grand Georgian buildings and timeworn churches synonymous with the city's illustrious past. Located on the site of the original Viking settlement, the legacy of the city's 1100 years is celebrated in the Viking Triangle – the city’s cultural quarter - home to museums, national monuments and a thousand years of architecture. Reginald’s Tower, dating back to the Norman period, showcases a collection of intriguing Viking artefacts, while the city’s medieval history is brought to life at the Medieval Museum, due to open in June 2012, and modern history at the restored Georgian Bishop’s Palace. An important port town, Waterford was once the main international gateway to Ireland due to its close proximity to Europe and position at the confluence of three important rivers. English and
French merchants flocked to the city and it became an area rich in different traditions that over the years became interwoven creating a unique culture in the city. The city’s quays, once the lifeline of the city, now play host to Ireland’s largest food festival, The Waterford Harvest Festival, a nine-day celebration of the city's food heritage. It has also become Waterford’s playground, teeming with leisure boats and on two occasions – in 2005 and 2011 - was host to the impressive International Tall Ships Race.
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ancient city wall Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of Barronstrand Street, packed with local shops, cafes and restaurants. Those in search of culture are spoilt for choice with a host of galleries and theatres and one can witness the master craftsmanship of crystal making at the world renowned Waterford Crystal factory. Never a dull moment in the region’s capital, film, music, drama, street theatre and arts festivals will give you a taste of the region’s rich culture.
Tucked into the deep estuary of the River Suir, in the
distant shadows of the Comeragh Mountains, Waterford is brimming with history, culture and a real zest for life. Hidden coastal villages and remote mountain towns are moments away, luring you to explore the great outdoors.
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Cultural Urban Centres
Kilkenny City
Ireland’s Medieval Capital
Kilkenny rests on the banks of the River Nore, dominated to the east by the dramatic outline of a stately 12th-century castle and to the west, by the imposing St Canice’s Cathedral and 9th-century round tower.
The medieval buildings and streetscapes of the city justify its title as Ireland’s Medieval Capital. Characterised by a maze of cobbled streets and ancient buildings, Ireland’s smallest city oozes with old world charm. Step into the past at Rothe House and Garden, a 17th-century wealthy merchant townhouse and restored garden, taste the renowned brew of Smithwicks in the surroundings of St Francis Abbey, Ireland’s oldest brewery or soak up the electric atmosphere when you experience the national sport of hurling in Nowlan Park. For those in search of peace and quiet, Kilkenny is surrounded by a gently undulating, lush countryside, traversed by meandering rivers and dotted with quaint villages and monastic ruins. The narrow streets of the medieval city centre are lined with boutiques influenced by the best of Irish design, while buzzing cafes, bars and restaurants invite you to taste some of the finest local produce.
There’s always a warm and lively welcome, no matter the time of day or year, in Kilkenny’s many cosy pubs. Kilkenny is home not only to the National Craft Gallery but to many esteemed craftspeople such as the world famous potter Nicholas Mosse (Bennettsbridge) and Master Jeweler, Rudolf Heltzl. The city is a thriving creative hub with a plethora of craft makers and artists. Follow the Made in Kilkenny Craft Trail from the city into the surrounding countryside and visit a host of artisan workshops, studios and galleries.
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12th century Kilkenny’s annual festival & events calendar
is packed with national and international comedy, music, food and arts festivals that have become the pulse of the city, making it a popular cultural destination.
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Urban Cultural Centres
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The County of Normans
Wexford Town
With some of the South East’s most beautiful beaches on its doorstep, a host of bustling cafes, restaurants and shops lining its narrow streets, Wexford is a charming and friendly coastal town. A flourishing arts scene includes the internationally acclaimed Wexford Opera Festival and a host of theatre, musical and literary events. Amidst the narrow streets, boutiques, craft centres and buzzing pubs, visitors can enjoy a truly contemporary Irish experience. Taste the delights of local artisan producers at the farmers market every Friday or in one of the many fine restaurants. Listen to traditional music and mingle with the locals in one of Wexford’s atmospheric bars. The broad quayside is home to leisure boats and fishing trawlers that lie idle in the evening, their catch unloaded for the day. Take a boat across the harbour and pass the Wexford Wildfowl Reserve,
Wexford is also an ideal base
where white-fronted geese and migratory birds nest, visit a local seal colony, or brave the open sea and cast your rod. Venturing a short distance outside Wexford town, you can visit the Irish National Heritage Park, quaint seaside villages, the majestic Johnstown Castles and Gardens, or walk long stretches of golden sand, climb aboard a reconstructed 19th-century emigrant ship ‘The Dunbrody’ or visit Europe’s oldest operating lighthouse ‘The Hook Lighthouse’.
from which to visit the county’s attractive towns of New Ross, the ancestral home of JF Kennedy, Enniscorthy, an early Norman settlement, Gorey, a thriving market town, and Ferns, a pretty village with a long and fascinating history.
10 Wonders of the South East
the wonder of
Kilkenny Castle
and the Castles of the South East
Kilkenny Castle Co. Kilkenny Majestically perched above the River Nore, Kilkenny Castle continues to tell the story of its long-held influence over the region. Purchased by one of Ireland’s most powerful families, the Butlers, in 1391, the castle remained within the family for over six centuries.
Past and present are intertwined, with an area dedicated to the Butler Art Gallery, exhibiting some of Ireland’s best contemporary art. Finish your visit with a stroll through the gardens, overlooking the River Nore.
Starting out as an important Anglo-Norman fortress and then a family residence, the castle blends centuries of architectural design.
Restored to its former glory,
you are invited to roam the underground chambers, fanciful living quarters, musty libraries, and stand in awe at the splendid Long Gallery.
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Norman stronghold of the
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The Castles of the South East The rolling hills, deep valleys and coastline of the South East are speckled with mystical castles, historic houses, remote ancient ruins and grandiose reminders of Ireland’s colourful past. The below are just a few examples of such historic places.
magical castles Enniscorthy Castle
Cahir Castle
Co. Wexford
Co. Tipperary
Johnstown Castle Gardens Co. Wexford
Presiding over the historic town of Enniscorthy this striking 12th-century castle offers an insight to its former life as a fortress and home, as well as telling the story of some of Ireland’s greatest battles.
Standing regally on a rocky keep in the middle of the River Suir, Cahir Castle captures the hearts and imaginations of young and old. One of Ireland’s largest and best preserved castles, it delights visitors with its battlements, keep and tower wall.
Fifty acres of gardens and woodland surround this 19th-century castle and are the perfect place to spend an afternoon. Laze by the lake, walk along the forest trails and catch a glimpse into the past at the Irish Agricultural Museum.
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10 Wonders Of The South East
the wonder of the
Rock of Cashel and the Christian Heritage of the South East
The Rock of Cashel
Celebrate Ireland’s culture at the Brú Ború Cultural Centre, which comes alive with traditional Irish music, dance and theatre. Hidden in the underground of the centre, the tale of Ireland’s past is told through a series of exhibitions.
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Atop a limestone outcrop, the Rock of Cashel commands a spectacular view across the verdant fields of Tipperary. Originally the Seat of the High Kings of Munster, the site was gifted to the church and burgeoned into a powerful religious centre.
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Co. Tipperary
ancient gaelic seat of the
kings
Explore the cluster of fascinating buildings
including a 12th-century round tower, Gothic Cathedral and Romanesque Chapel and discover the eminent Christian heritage of the Rock of Cashel.
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The Christian Heritage of the South East The inspiring and colourful past of the South East has left an indelible mark on the landscape and is studded with imposing ecclesiastical sites. Follow the ecclesiastical trail ‘The Trail of Saints’ in Carlow or visit one of the below sites.
spiritual places
St Canice’s Cathedral
Ardmore Round Tower
Jerpoint Abbey
Co. Kilkenny
Co. Waterford
Co. Kilkenny
Overlooking the city of Kilkenny is an impressive 13th-century cathedral, aside which stands an accessible 30m high Round Tower, dating back to the 9th-century. This is one of the most unique and well-preserved round towers in Ireland.
Resting on a hilltop overlooking the seaside village of Ardmore, this 30m high Round Tower marks one of Ireland’s oldest ecclesiastical sites. Beside the impressive tower sits St Declan’s Cathedral, said to hold the remains of the Saint himself.
Peacefully located on the banks of Little Arrigle, this Cistercian abbey delights all with its ornately sculptured arcade, intricately engraved with figures of Knights, Ladies and dragons. The magnificent central tower, pretty cloister and other impressive remains give an intimate insight to life at the abbey from the 12th-century.
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10 Wonders Of The South East
the wonder of the
Waterford Crystal F and the Indigenous Craft of the South East Waterford Crystal i la
m t o Fa m e
In 1783, two brothers, William and George Penrose, decided they wanted 'to create the finest quality crystal for drinking vessels and objects of beauty for the home'. Their aspirations gave rise to the now world famous Waterford Crystal, which has been designing and manufacturing some of the world’s most exquisite pieces of tableware and gifts for over 200 years.
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Co. Waterford
luxury crystal The World's leading
brand
The Waterford Crystal factory is located in the heart of Waterford City and welcomes visitors to witness the skill of the craftsmen as they mould, blow, mark and cut glass. Distributed throughout the world, Waterford Crystal remains a constant source of pride to the people of Ireland.
Browse the House of Waterford showroom, with the largest display of Waterford Crystal in the world.
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Factory
The Indigenous Craft of the South East The landscape of the South East is dotted with the workshops and galleries of a host of craft makers, including artists, potters, weavers and jewellery designers. The tradition of craft making is deeply ingrained in the people of the South East and here you will gain a true insight into the skill, hearts and souls of the Irish.
a piece of art
Nicholas Mosse
Kiltrea Bridge Pottery
Craft Trails
Co. Kilkenny
Co. Wexford
South East
Nicholas Mosse Pottery is ideally located in an old mill in the countryside outside Kilkenny. Inspiration is drawn from the rural surrounds and the charm of Irish country living is beautifully portrayed through the different pieces. Watch the potters at work, partake in a workshop or simply enjoy a cup of tea in the attractive tearooms.
On the banks of the River Urrin, Kiltrea Pottery is a family-run business offering the visitor a unique glimpse into the incredible workmanship and passion of potters. Watch potters at their wheels and then browse the original, elegant pieces in the gift shop.
The region’s craft trails reveal the hidden workshops, galleries and studios of the craftspeople and artists of the South East. The craft trails offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the creative culture of the region, from candlemakers to weavers, artists to clothes designers.
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10 Wonders Of The South East
the wonder of
Altamont Gardens and the Historic Houses & Gardens of the South East This hidden gem is tucked away in beautiful Co. Carlow and is often referred to as the most romantic garden in Ireland. You can’t fail to be charmed by the glistening lake and weaving paths adorned with rose bushes, rhododendrons and colorful shrubs.
Grand oak trees over 500 years old are spotted around the estate, while Irish yews line the formal Broad Walk interspersed with violas, roses and a collection of plants creating a dramatic blaze of colour.
Stroll through the Arboretum,
past the Bog Garden and through the Ice Age Glen until you reach the banks of the River Slaney.
romantic ireland’s most
garden
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The Historic Houses & Gardens of the South East No matter the season, the gardens of the South East are a spectacular show of nature. Blessed with a lush, gently undulating interior the region is speckled with grand estate houses, formal gardens and extensive parklands waiting to be explored. The region boasts a number of local garden trails complemented by a number of major estate gardens.
walk & wonder Rothe House & Garden Co. Kilkenny
This delightful 17th-century merchant townhouse has a maze of rooms adorned with relics from the past, from Viking swords and stone axe heads to 18th-century paintings and furniture. The attractive garden, reinstated to reflect its 17th Century heritage, behind the merchant’s house offers a pleasant respite from your exploration of the vibrant city of Kilkenny.
John F Kennedy Arboretum Co. Wexford
Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum Co. Kilkenny
Tucked into the southern slopes of Slievecoiltia, the stunning parkland has over 4,500 types of majestic trees and shrubs, gardens bursting with colour, a tranquil lake and walking trails. From the summit of Slievecoiltia you will enjoy some of the finest views across the South East.
At the top of a steep, winding hill Woodstock Gardens are the grounds of a once grand Georgian Manor. Meander through the terraced and walled gardens in the shadows of the manor house, where the charming Arboretum is stocked with trees from Asia and South America.
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10 Wonders Of The South East
the wonder of
Hook Lighthouse and exploring Ireland's Past Hook Lighthouse Co. Wexford There is no more beautiful a place than looking out to sea from the rocks skirting the edge of the magnificent Hook Lighthouse. Crowning the tip of the Hook Peninsula for over 800 years, Hook Lighthouse is Europe’s oldest operational lighthouse. Once operated by monks, it was built with the purpose of safely leading ships into Waterford Harbour. Visit the heritage centre, housed in the old buildings beside the lighthouse, then take a pew in the teashop and absorb the remoteness of this incredible building at the edge of the Irish Sea.
Climb the narrow stairwell,
up 115 steps to the top of the formidable lighthouse where you are welcomed by superb views across the Irish Sea.
oldest operating europe’s
lighthouse
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Exploring Ireland’s Past The events of the past are what shape both our landscape and people. It is through knowing the history of an area you come to understand the people and their surrounds. The South East has a collection of impressive interpretation centres illustrating through pictures and words both the regional and national history.
Dunbrody Experience Co. Wexford Clamber aboard the magnificent Dunbrody Famine Ship, a reconstruction of the three-masted sailing ship that was responsible for the transport of the endless stream of emigrants escaping the Great Famine, across to North America. Discover the fascinating history of the Dunbrody and the people who left Ireland, through the new interactive interpretive visitor centre. Then drop in to the Irish American Hall of Fame representing many famous Irish American people such as Bill Clinton and Maureen O’ Hara.
Castlecomer Discovery Park Co. Kilkenny
Irish National Heritage Park Co. Wexford
Castlecomer Discovery Park is no ordinary park, but where nature and science become one. Walkers will revel in the range of woodland trails, anglers will cast out into the tranquil lake and those with a curious mind will go on a journey into the past following the Footprints in Coal Experience. Life-size creatures, fossils and rocks tell the captivating history of coal mining in the area.
This wonderful open-air museum traces Irish history from the Stone Age through to the Norman period. Impressive reconstructions of a Viking ship, ringfort and monastic sites bring Irish history to life. The incredible heritage trail is covered over 35 acres of land, magically transporting you through time.
discover history
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10 Wonders Of The South East
the wonder of
Lismore Town
and the heritage towns of the South East
impressive ireland’s most
castle
Browse the market
before heading into the castle gardens, where you will find a haven of tranquillity. Lismore Town Co. Waterford Nestled on the banks of the River Blackwater, Lismore is one of the South East’s most picturesque towns. The wide main street is lined with neat, brightly coloured buildings and billowing flower baskets, pretty shops and atmospheric bars. Located in the town centre, a visit to Lismore Heritage Centre is a must for all those wishing to learn of the town's illustrious past. On the edge of town, the waters of the Blackwater pass beneath the resplendent Lismore Castle and Gardens. Housed in the once derelict West wing of the castle, is the wonderful Lismore Arts Centre. An annual contemporary art exhibition, workshops and an array of artistic events make this a wonderful creative hub. The town also plays host to the Immrama Lismore Festival of Travel Writing every June.
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Heritage Towns of the South East
idyllic
Set within stunning natural surrounds, the century old churches and castles, opulent estate houses and crumbling monastic ruins are what characterise the villages and towns of the South East. Many such towns developed on the banks of meandering rivers, traversed by stone bridges and it is these towns that tell the story of the rich heritage of the region.
Carrick-on-Suir
Inistioge
Enniscorthy
Co. Tipperary
Co. Kilkenny
Co. Wexford
A town of character, scenically nestled on the banks of the River Suir, Carrick-on-Suir is a busy spot, home to the charming Ormond Castle. Two 15th-century towers form part of this fine Elizabethan manor, built by the 10th Earl of Ormond in the 1560’s. Detailed stucco ceilings and ornately engraved fireplaces have given the state rooms the reputation of being some of the finest in Ireland.
The idyllic village of Inistioge, tucked into the lush Nore valley is famed for being the location of the award winning film 'Circle of Friends'. Amble along riverside paths, visit Woodstock Gardens or simply absorb the atmosphere of this quaint, much loved village.
The picturesque setting of Enniscorthy on the banks of the River Slaney belies its rather turbulent political past. Once the site of one of Ireland’s most important battles 'The 1798 Rebellion', the town is seeped in history and is crowned with the impressive Enniscorthy Castle, the 1798 Visitor Centre and a Pugin Cathedral.
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10 Wonders Of The South East
the wonder of
Wexford Opera Festi and the Festivals and Events of the South East
People travel from around the world
to discover new, unique and revived operatic pieces at this sensational festival, which is held annually each October. Introducing new artists, established acts and original productions, the festival prides itself on creating a dynamic, innovative and imaginative programme each year. Running for over six decades, Wexford hosts many of the acts in its stunning Opera House, with fringe events taking place in restaurants, bars, art centres and hotels throughout the town. The festival is testament that Irish culture and hospitality is amongst the best in the world.
image on top ‘La Cour de Cèlimène’ by Ambroise Thomas Wexford Festival Opera 2011 | Photographer Clive Barda
famous opera one of the most
festivals
Calendar of Events APRIL Waterford Festival of Food Dungarvan, Co Waterford
MAY Smithwicks Kilkenny Rhythm & Roots Festival Kilkenny
International Gospel Choir Festival Kilkenny
JUNE Cats Laugh Comedy Festival Kilkenny
Immrama – The Lismore Festival of Travel Writing Co Waterford
Eigse Carlow Arts Festival Carlow
ival
JULY Clonmel Junction Festival Co Tipperary
AUGUST Spraoi International Street Art Festival Waterford
Kilkenny Arts Festival Kilkenny
The Sean Kelly Cycling Tour
Festivals & Events
Dungarvan, Co Waterford
At the heart of the South East is the love for music, dance, theatre, food and life. There is always a festival or celebration happening in the vibrant cities, towns and villages of the South East, welcoming visitors to experience both an authentic and contemporary Irish culture.
SEPTEMBER
Whether you are a lover of bluegrass, piano, comedy, dance, crafts, food, literature or walking you can be assured it is celebrated in the South East. For full up to date Festival Listing log on to www.discoverireland.ie
Waterford Harvest Food Festival Waterford
New Ross Piano Festival Co Wexford
International Greystock Festival Kilkenny
OCTOBER Wexford Opera Festival Wexford
Savour Festival Kilkenny
NOVEMBER Wexworlds Sci-Fi & Fantasy Fiction Festival Wexford
Kilkenomics Festival Kilkenny
DECEMBER Christmas in Waterford Waterford
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10 Wonders Of The South East
the wonder of
the Irish Pub
and the Food & Cutural Entertainment of the South East The Irish Pub & Food After a hike up the mountains or brisk walk along the beach there is always a cosy, welcoming pub nearby. Sit by a crackling fire and enjoy a fresh cup of tea or some fine local brew and join in with the friendly chatter of locals. The Irish are known the world around for their warm and welcoming hospitality and no more so than in the Irish pub. Scattered through the valleys and the region’s towns and cities are the true hidden gems of Ireland.
Choose from a mix
With some of the richest agricultural land in the country, it is no surprise the South East is a honey pot for food lovers. There is a huge sense of pride and celebration amongst the region’s food producers and restaurateurs in serving the finest ingredients with imagination and flair. Michelin Star restaurants and luxurious gourmet retreats, contemporary and timeless cafes all offer the best of Irish food.
of traditional Irish pubs infused with the smell of turf fires or bustling modern bars and gastro-pubs serving quality Irish foods.
Craic agus Ceol The Home of
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enjoyment Art galleries, independent theatre houses, art centres and artisan workshops are the heartbeat of the South East. Visual art and performing venues are in abundance in the region, such as the Theatre Royal in Waterford, The Butler Gallery in Kilkenny, the Wexford Opera House and Carlow Visual Contemporary Art Gallery. It is through the people and their art that the South East can celebrate its culture and beauty.
Visual Centre for Contemporary Art | Carlow Exhibition Samuel Walsh
Cultural Entertainment The South East has programmes packed with comedy, theatre, dance and music events, embracing both traditional and contemporary forms of art. Whether it is traditional music and dance sessions, storytelling through the Booley House, international opera or comedy festivals, there is always a reason to visit.
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10 Wonders Of The South East
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The Glen of Aherlow
m t o Fa m e
the wonder of
i la
one of ireland’s most
beautiful valleys
and The Great Outdoors of the South East Cradled between Ireland’s highest inland range, the Galtee Mountains and Slievenamuch Ridge, this tranquil country valley offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the region. Marked by its gently rolling hills, corrie lakes and untouched beauty, the Glen of Aherlow is a true hidden gem. Escape into the outdoors for a ramble through the mountains or cycle along the winding roads exploring the valley. Pitch a tent in one of the many designated parks or experience true Irish hospitality in a local B&B.
The Glen of Aherlow
is an area of outstanding beauty, capturing the hearts of those who visit and providing the inspiration to return.
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The Great Outdoors Cast your rod into the Blackwater, swim and sail off the Wexford and Waterford coast, be challenged by the steep slopes of the Blackstairs Mountains, take a relaxing stroll along the Barrow Towpath from Carlow town to St Mullins or enjoy a horse ride through a valley or simply enjoy one of the region’s cycle trails. For the watersport enthusiast one can surf, sail or swim from a number of locations along the Waterford and Wexford coastline. The South East has an abundance of outdoor activities to offer.
Angling at Cahir Co. Tipperary
breathtaking views
Wade into the fast moving waters of the River Suir and enjoy some of Ireland’s best brown trout fishing. The second longest river in Ireland, the Suir is the perfect environment for wild brown trout, attracting anglers from all over the world with its treasure trove of fish.
Golfing at Mount Juliet
Walking in the Nire Valley
Co. Kilkenny
Co. Waterford
The beautiful and challenging world renowned championship course at Mount Juliet is known as the best Parkland course in the country. Set on the grandiose Mount Juliet Estate, the fine river views, surrounding forest walks, equestrian pursuits and lush countryside make it a truly memorable experience.
The Comeragh Mountains tower above the Nire Valley and it is here walkers of all levels come to enjoy quiet mountain trails, scintillating lakes and breathtaking views. Wild flowers, roaming sheep, goats and hovering birds are the only reminders of the world outside.
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10 Wonders Of The South East
the wonder of
the Copper Coast and The Scenic Places of Beauty in the South East The Copper Coast UNESCO & European Geopark, Co. Waterford In the shadows of the imposing Comeragh Mountains the coastline between Dungarvan and Tramore is fringed with secluded beaches, majestic cliffs and mysterious caves. Known as The Copper Coast, the stretch is famous for its exceptional beauty and geological importance. The Geopark provides informative panels on beaches, caves and villages offering information on the formation and history of the area. The name of the coastline is derived from the 19th-century mines that were once the heart of the area.
european ireland’s one and only
geopark
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Scenic Places of Beauty in the South East The countryside of the South East has a web of rivers and pockets of lakes. Lush, green fields surrounded by lofty mountains sweep down towards the picturesque coastline.
exceptional beauty Dunmore East
The Hook Peninsula
The Vee
Mount Leinster
Co. Waterford
Co. Wexford
Co. Tipperary
Co. Carlow / Co. Wexford
The picturesque seaside town, Dunmore East, is a hive of activity during the summer. Sailboats dot the waters and the sandy coves are packed with bathers. The streets of the pretty fishing village are lined with neat, thatched cottages and a host of wonderful restaurants, bars and cafes to choose from.
Stretching out into the Irish sea, crowned by an 800-year old lighthouse, the rugged and remote Hook Peninsula is one of the most scenic drives in the region. Small coves dot the west coast, while long stretches of beach and quiet coastal villages fringe the east of the Peninsula.
Leaving behind the green fields of Co. Tipperary, a narrow, winding road leads up into the Vee Mountain range, at the top of which offer spectacular views across the surrounding counties.
Approached from Co. Carlow or Co. Wexford, you can follow the quiet trails across Mount Leinster on foot or, if feeling brave, on bicycle. Challenging hikes or gentle ambles can be enjoyed by all.
The Barrow Heritage Drive
Comeragh Mountains
Co. Carlow
Co. Waterford
Weaving through the pretty countryside of Carlow, the River Barrow Heritage Drive follows the river through quiet villages and idyllic countryside peppered with ancient ecclesiastical ruins.
Stretching from the coast inland, the brooding Comeragh Mountains are covered with bogland, dotted with lakes and traversed by a series of mountain trails and valley walks.
Galway Bay
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Inishmore Getting here and around r a Inishmaan n Inisheer Isl and s Serviced by two International airports, two regional airports and a ferry port, Hags Hd. the South East is easily accessible from the UK and Mainland Europe.
DERRY
BELFAST
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An efficient and inexpensive public transport system makes it easy to get around the region, withDonegal a good Pt. choice of bus and train routes and schedules.
GALWAY
Hiring a car is a great option for those wanting to travel independently. The South East has an y extremely good network of motorways and roads. tuar s E Going between the cities, towns non Loop Hd.and villages aofnthe h S region will only ever be a short trip.
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Fea l
e
Kerry Hd
L.
De
ale
Tralee Bay
Brandon Point
Mitchelstown
Clogher Hd.
Blasket Islands
Blackwater
KERRY
e Bay Dingl
Lakes of Killarney
CORK
alentia Island Lee
Bray Hd.
Travel distances Waterford to Rosslare Europort Kilkenny to Cods Hd. Rosslare Europort
Air ver i R e Waterford Regional Airport mar
n Ke77 km
Tel: +353 51 846 600 www.flywaterford.com
y
Dublin Airport to Kilkenny
a Dublin International tr y B Airport n a B 1 814 1111 Tel: +353 Bere Island www.dublin-airport.com 166 km Bay CorkusInternational Airport n a +353 21 431 3131 m Tel: n 138 km Du www.corkairport.com
Kilkenny to Shannon Airport
150 km
Dublin Airport to Dursey Island Wexford
122 km
Mizen Hd. Shannon Airport Tel: + 353 (0) 617 12000 Clear Island www.shannonairport.com
Sea
Stena Line Brittany Ferries www.stenaline.ie www.brittany-ferries.ie onRoscoff, Brittany to Cork • Fishguard to Band• Rosslare Europort P&O Ferries • Holyhead to www.poirishsea.com Dun Laoghaire, Dublin • Liverpool to Dublin • Holyhead to Old Head of Kins Dublin Port, Dublin LD Lines Galley Hd. www.ldlines.co.uk Irish Ferries • Rosslare to Cherbourg www.irishferries.com • Pembroke to Rosslare Europort • Roscoff, Brittany to Rosslare Europort • Cherbourg to Rosslare Europort • Holy Head to Dublin
Celtic Link Ferries www.celticlinkferries.com • Rosslare to Cherbourg
Naas
Sh an no n
Droichead Nua (Newbridge)
Kildare
Portarlington
Blessington
Portlaoise
N81
N9
Athy
LAOIS
Roscrea
N11
N78
Avoca
Carlow
De rry
Durrow
Tullow
N9
TIPPERARY
CARLOW
Urlingford
Thurles
Gorey
Bagenalstown
N10
Kilkenny Kilkenny
N8
Bunclody
KILKENNY Callan Cashel
Ferns
Graiguenamanagh
N10
Enniscorthy
y
re
No
N30
Slane
N76
TIPPERARY SOUTH
N11
Wexford Bay
New Ross N24
N24 Clonmel
N8
Carrick-on-Suir
N9
n
N25 N25
Suir
Ballyhack
WATERFORD Waterford
Cappoquin
Dungarvan
N72
Knockadoon Hd.
Cork H a
sale
rbour
N25
Kilmore Quay
Tramore
Dunmore East
rd erfo Hook Hd. Wat bour Har
CELTIC SEA
Rosslare
Fethard
N25
N25
Ardmore
Wellington Bridge
Wexford Wexford
Rosslare Harbour
Passage East
WATERFORD
Cahore Pt.
WEXFORD
Thomastown
N74
Courtown
N11
N80
N9
Holycross
Lismore
Arklow
Castlecomer
N77
Cahir
Wi N11
Baltinglass
Abbeyleix
Tipperary
Wicklo
WICKLOW Rathdrum
N8
31
Ashford
Glendalough
Stradbally
Derg
Greystones
Lacken Reservoir
M9
ow Barr
M7
Enniskerry
Carnsore Pt.
FI/11632-11
breathtaking Fรกilte Ireland 4th Floor Wallace House, Maritana Gate, Canada Street, Waterford. Tel: +353 (0) 51 312 700 Fax: +353 (0) 51 312 710 Web: www.discoverireland.com