| Many visitors to Ireland choose to visit the city of | | | | Glendalough is a favourite with Dubliners looking to |
| Dublin, attracted by its lively atmosphere and | | | | relax at weekends. |
| bright reputation. There is much more to Ireland | | | | It's well worth a visit. Take a chance to |
| than its capital city though - take the road out of | | | | experience the unique air of tranquility, both at |
| Dublin and you'll soon start to find some of the | | | | Glendalough and on the way to the site via the |
| hidden secrets of this wonderful country. | | | | roads that wind their way through the Wicklow |
| Before discussing some of the gems that can be | | | | Mountains. |
| found outside of the capital, it's worth pointing out | | | | Further south is another gem but of an entirely |
| that this discussion of Ireland's hidden highlights is | | | | different nature. If you are lucky enough to find |
| not meant as a criticism of Dublin. | | | | yourself on a coach tour that visits the town of |
| Indeed, Dublin has plenty to offer the visitor and | | | | Kinsale (not far from Cork) then you are in for a |
| should be central to any touring itinerary of the | | | | real treat. The town is renowned as the gourmet |
| island. Many coaching holidays commence from | | | | capital of Ireland - sample the seafood and you'll |
| the capital city and there is no doubt that Dublin | | | | soon see how the town has earned it's name. |
| has plenty to offer. There is, however, lots more | | | | Also in County Cork is the birthplace of Michael |
| to be found beyond the city limits. | | | | Collins. Although the original house was long ago |
| Talking to people about their experiences of | | | | destroyed, a visit to this place of historic |
| Ireland, it is clear that most look to visit the | | | | importance is an interesting experience. With its |
| traditional tourist destinations of Dublin, Blarney | | | | rural location and under-stated air, this is a place |
| Castle and the Ring of Kerry. Each of these sights | | | | to stand and ponder. |
| certainly has its own merits, but there are some | | | | Glendalough, the town of Kinsale and the |
| lesser known locations that are well worth a visit. | | | | birthplace of Michael Collins are all within easy |
| Less than an hour's drive south of Dublin, nestled | | | | reach of either Dublin or Cork. |
| in the Wicklow Mountains, is the religious site of | | | | Next time you are in Ireland, why not take the |
| Glendalough, originally settled by St Kevin. With its | | | | time to visit these hidden secrets? |
| stunning round tower and beautiful setting, | | | | |