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This old village inn is named after the family that own Slane Castle and most of the surrounding area. Originally a coaching inn, it is now also a hotel. Good food and a comfortable place to drink.

Set in 60 acres of parkland, Coolclogher House is within walking distance of Killarney National Park. The large guestrooms have lovely views. The Victorian conservatory is built around a huge specimen camellia over 170 years old.

The woods, lakes and paths of this national park and wildlife preserve, with its red deer and red squirrels, were once the grounds of a great Georgian mansion, home of Lady Augusta Gregory (see Abbey and Peacock Theatres). She hosted the most famous novelists and playwrights of her day and the Irish Revival began here. Names carved on the Autograph Tree include Shaw, Synge, Sean O’Casey and many more. The house itself fell into ruin and was dismantled.

Set on a 500-acre estate of farm and woodland, this Georgian mansion lets you forget the world outside. Elegance is a virtue here, with candlelit dinners served with the family silver. Along with the open log fires there are modern comforts, and peacocks wander through the garden.

Eating here is an interesting experience because you are surrounded by unusual artwork and pottery – hence the name. The food is an equally unusual mix of styles and flavours and the atmosphere is relaxed and informal.

The lively, witty, relaxed conviviality, gossip and talk that makes life worth living.

Seafood, meat and game are the specialities of this excellent but unassuming family-run restaurant. It also has a large array of fine whiskeys.

St Patrick supposedly climbed this black conical hill, one of Ireland’s most sacred sites, dedicated to Lugh, God of Light. It is considered a pious act to make the steep climb on the rough, cutting stones to the summit (which gives phenomenal views). For the annual July pilgrimage, many ascend in bare feet.