Heritage Island, Ireland's Visitor Attractions

Commence with the great Famine Exhibition at the Skibbereen Heritage Centre in lovely West Cork. Here the latest multi- media technology brings this crucial period of Irish history to life.

Next onto Bantry House, not just one of Ireland's finest historic house, but also commanding one of the best views overlooking wonderful Bantry Bay. Bantry House also has a wonderful gardens which were inspired by the 2nd Earl of Bantry's Grand Tour. The garden is laid out in the Italian style and over seven terraces south facing parterre surrounding a wisteria circle and fountain.

Explore the beautiful Lakes of Killarney before heading for Tralee and learn the history of Kerry from early times at the Kerry County Museum. Here travel  back 600 years to the Geraldine Experience and you will see, hear and smell medieval Tralee.

Continue on towards Cork enjoying some fine scenery en route and stop at Blarney, a 'must see' visit in the area. Blarney Castle is world - renowned and blarney stone confers eloquence on all who kiss it! Don't forget to take a wander through the beautiful gardens at Blarney and discover the Witches Kitchen, Wishing Steps, Druid's Cave and many other delights telling a story of centuries past.

A busy day with a wide choice of fascinating heritage visits from the olden days to modern times, all within 50 miles of Cork city. Within a few short miles of each other lie three very different but equally interesting centres: Fota House & Gardens has been compleely renovated and restored to its former beauty, this Regency house has an exciting garden and arboretum; Cobh Heritage Town, main port of massive Irish emigration to New World in 19th Century and final port of call of the ill- fated Titanic; and lift the hearts with the story of Irish whiskey at the Jameson Experience Midleton where you can have the opportunity of becoming a qualified Irish whiskey taster.

Only a little further on can be found Youghal Heritage Town, an attractive seaside resort and one of the best example of Norman Walled Port in Ireland. Take a Youghal Heritage Trail walking tour which lasts approximately one hour to see the old town walls and other iconic buildings on the trail. The trail take in the famous " Clock Tower" and Tynes Castle.