The Sunny South East is one of Ireland’s most diverse and captivating regions, encompassing the counties of Carlow, Kilkenny, Tipperary, Waterford, and Wexford. Renowned for its picturesque coastline, vibrant towns, rolling countryside, and rich history, this charming corner of Ireland enjoys some of the country’s mildest weather and offers the perfect blend of culture, heritage, gastronomy, and outdoor adventure.
Begin your journey in County Wexford, where elegant coastal retreats, fascinating history, and exceptional food await. Stay at the renowned Dunbrody House, famous for its warm hospitality and award-winning cuisine. Explore Ireland’s past at the Irish National Heritage Park and the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience, enjoy a cookery experience with celebrity chef Kevin Dundon, and take in a performance at the National Opera House. For nature lovers, a visit to the Saltee Islands offers the chance to see puffins and other seabirds against a backdrop of dramatic coastal scenery.
Continue west into County Waterford, a region renowned for its Viking heritage, dramatic coastline, and exceptional local produce. Explore the charming harbour village of Dunmore East, where freshly caught fish and chips can be enjoyed overlooking the sea, before discovering the craftsmanship behind one of Ireland’s most famous exports at the House of Waterford Crystal. From colourful coastal towns to scenic cliff walks and historic landmarks, Waterford offers an authentic taste of Ireland’s Ancient East.
From here, travel to Cork and settle into the luxurious surroundings of Hayfield Manor, one of Ireland’s finest five-star hotels.
Discover the charm of Cork and nearby Kinsale, often regarded as Ireland’s culinary capital. Wander colourful streets, enjoy a guided food experience, explore the impressive Charles Fort, and savour some of the region’s finest local produce. Along the way, visit the iconic Blarney Castle and Gardens and enjoy the warm atmosphere of Cork’s historic pubs and restaurants.
Your journey then brings you to the heart of County Tipperary and the historic town of Cashel. Dominated by the spectacular Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks, the town offers a wonderful blend of history, culture, and hospitality. Enjoy exceptional local dining, explore the scenic Glen of Aherlow, and unwind at the magnificent Cashel Palace Hotel, a beautifully restored luxury retreat nestled in the shadow of the ancient rock. The perfect finale to a journey through one of Ireland’s most rewarding regions.
Combining luxury accommodation, exceptional dining, fascinating history, and authentic local experiences, the Sunny South East offers an unforgettable introduction to Ireland beyond the traditional tourist trail.
Map
Dublin
DublinWexford
Cork
Tipperary
ACCOMMODATION
Dunbrody House
Luxury Boutique Hotel
Hayfield Manor Hotel, Cork
5 Star Hotels Ireland
The Cashel Palace
5 Star Hotels Ireland
Experiences
Irish Famine Ship
As you arrive into the exhibition, they establish an illusion that you are an emigrant passenger by creating a theatre set with audio of voices from the past and a seamless interaction with live interpreters. Our exhibition is divided into three parts: Departure, Voyage and New World.
National Opera House
Irish Heritage Park
Evidence of Ireland’s unique and distinctive history is all around us, in the many monument sites and features to be seen across the island. But where can you go to see how people lived? What if you could compare a Stone Age settlement with a Viking Settlement and see how they differed and what they had in common? That was the idea behind The Irish National Heritage Park.
Midleton Distillery
At Jameson Distillery Midleton you’ll come face to face with the largest pot still in the world, see the new micro distillery in action, experience the live maturation warehouse and taste whiskeys along the way. You’ll even get the chance to make new friends at the bar. Private tours and tastings can be arranged.
Blarney Castle
Built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland’s greatest chieftans, Cormac MacCarthy, and has been attracting attention ever since. Over the last few hundred years, millions have flocked to Blarney making it a world landmark and one of Ireland’s greatest treasures. Now that might have something to do with the Blarney Stone, the legendary Stone of Eloquence, found at the top of our tower. Kiss it and you’ll never again be…
Charles Fort
Charles Fort played a role in some of Ireland's largest battles, including the Williamite War of 1689 and the Irish Civil War of 1922. Overlooking the Old Head of Kinsale, the fort also offers unbeatable views of the village. Declared a National Monument in 1973, this is a popular place for day visitors from Cork, especially during summer. Head out early to avoid long queues. Also, wear comfy walking shoes and be careful – the terrain here can be a bit uneven and there are 20 acres to explore.
The Rock of Cashel
Set on a dramatic outcrop of limestone in the Golden Vale, the Rock of Cashel, iconic in its historic significance, possesses the most impressive cluster of medieval buildings in Ireland. Among the monuments to be found there is a round tower, a high cross, a Romanesque chapel, a Gothic cathedral, an abbey, the Hall of the Vicars Choral and a fifteenth-century Tower House.
Lough Derg Boat Tour
Lough Derg Boat Tours are based in Dromineer on the shore of Lough Derg and offer private and scheduled boat tours of this beautiful lake. Lough Derg is one of three lakes on the River Shannon which is the largest river in Ireland and stretches for over 200km. The lake is over 45 km in length and 8km wide in parts with Portumna at one end and Killaloe at the other. There are many other Towns and Villages surrounding the lake to explore. The lake is bounded by Counties Tipperary, Clare and Galway. Our tours are conducted by experts who have a deep knowledge and love for Lough Derg and all it has to offer. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing the many wonders and history of this great location.
Kinsale Food Tour
This tour takes in much of Kinsale by food while visiting a selection of local eateries. The beautiful medieval coastal town has much to offer in terms of scenery as well as being know as Ireland's foodie capital.
