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A simply decorated café serving the Avoca kitchens’ well-tested fare. Spread over a number of large rooms, the acoustics can be a bit wearing when it’s full. Wonderful views from the terrace (see Powerscourt Estate).

Foodstuffs from around the world and Irish crafts.

For those who don’t have a chance to visit Avoca in Powerscourt, this shop is a satisfactory alternative, with its range of goods and clothes. Excellent food section, and a restaurant on the top floor.

This is one of the main outlets of Avoca, stocking a wide range of their own label clothes, gifts and foods. The self-serve restaurant sells huge helpings of Mediterranean food.

The beautiful Avondale Forest Park is filled with marked walks and nature trails, some of them along the bucolic setting of the River Avonmore banks. There is also an 18th-century arboretum within the park, with an impressive range of plant species.

A short walk from St Stephen’s Green and the shopping hub of the city on Grafton Street, this converted Georgian townhouse makes an unusual but attractive place to stay, as well as an affordable one. The price includes a full Irish breakfast. Smokers should be aware that the whole establishment is non-smoking.

The ruins of Ballinalacken Castle are right beside this guesthouse. The restaurant serves food by award-winning chef Frank Sheedy.

This ivy-covered Georgian guesthouse on a 400-acre farm is the best in its category. Enjoy the simply prepared food from the award-winning restaurant. Or try your hand at the small golf course, tennis court or splash around in the outdoor pool. Fishing and riding can be arranged.

Darina and Tim Allen’s cookery school held here has a worldwide reputation and it is hardly surprising that the food is absolutely delicious. Booking is essential.