Places to Visit in Ireland
Vacation Ideas

In the village there is a small supermarket, a butcher`s shop, a general store, a petrol station and two takeaways.

So why would anyone want to visit Dunmore? The answer is not obvious from the description but it is actually a hidden gem, like hundreds of other villages throughout Ireland. Meat from the butchers is very fresh and tastes superb, the village is clean and the Guinness is amazing!

Still not convinced? What cannot be described is the warm and friendly atmosphere throughout, the impromptu sing songs in the pubs, the "characters" in the village and the sheer diversity where the village post office doubles as an undertakers or farm supply shop! It cannot be beaten and you just have to experience it for yourself.

Other festivals are held throughout the year, the biggest being the Ballyshannon Carnival in October and the Folk Festival held over the August Bank Holiday weekend. Home made refreshment is offered by friendly local pubs, cafes and restaurants and accommodation of all types can be found in and around the town.

There are plenty of interesting excursions and activities, including the Five Oaks Ranch which offers western trail rides (suitable for all abilities) on genuine, imported American Quarter Horses. Make Ballyshannon one of your Irish vacation ideas.

It is actually possible to stay in an actual Lighthouse, but be prepared for a total lack of facilities. Guests are expected to enjoy their stay without the benefits of TV, telephone or microwave! To escape from isolation for a while, travel to the nearby fishing village of Carrigaholt, dominated by its five storey `tower house` castle.

Most of the locals still speak their native tongue and serve traditional Irish dishes designed to satisfy even the biggest appetite. A very popular mini excursion from Carrigaholt is a two hour boat trip to watch dolphins swimming and playing in the Shannon Estuary.

Over the last few years, several well known restaurants have taken up residence in this part of the city, no doubt taking advantage of the character of the area. There is just as much to explore outside of the city, with many popular excursions available. These include The Comeragh Mountains, Dungarvon & The Copper Coast, The Gaultier Coast Drive, Lismore & The Vee and The Suir Valley.

If possible, avoid arranging car hire Dublin-based as it could prove costly, it is best to research and find a suitable vehicle in a town or village outside of the city.

Three highly recommended road trips are:

• The Boyne Valley - historic relics and settlements dating back to 500 BC - includes The Hill of Tara, Drogheda, Newgrange and Monasterboice.
• The Kildare Tour - a mixed bag - Castletown, Kildare Town, The Irish National Stud and The Japanese Gardens.
• The Wicklow Mountains - 4x4 needed for diverse landscapes! - includes Calgary Bog, Roundwood, Glendalough, The Military Road, Glencree and Enniskerry.

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