The North West of Ireland is a region of infinite variety, a paradise for hill-walkers, hikers and sporting enthusiasts. Coming down from the northernmost tip of the island in Donegal to the counties of Sligo, Cavan, Monaghan and Leitrim the area is largely devoid of cities and fashions a more idyllic existence in the towns and villages.
North West is one of the bastions of Gaelic culture. The ancient Irish language is still heard in the streets and bars of north Donegal and the ancient Celtic history of the area is evident from the largest concentration of megalithic monumentsin Europe, some of them predating Christianity by thousands of years like the ancient ring fort of the O'Neills which commands a powerful view across the hills of Donegal.
The hills of Donegal and Sligo provide perfect hill-walking terrain for the enthusiast or the newcomer. A short walk can find you a state of perfect isolation from the bustle of 20th century living and leave you wandering some of Ireland's most beautiful countryside in solitary splendour.
But nothing could be further from the truth to suggest that the only reason to go to the North West is to get away from people. The region boasts some of the finest seafood restaurants in the country and the sight of the fishing fleet coming in at Killybegs is a wonder to behold. And if you're the type of person who prefers to catch his or her own then the rivers and lakes of the North West, especially in Cavan and Monaghan, can cater to your need with a huge variety of fish.
The small towns of the place like Sligo, Letterkenny and Monaghan are well used to visitors from Ireland and abroad who come to recharge the batteries and enjoy the warm reception that any visitor is sure to encounter. You can be assured of a friendly interest in how you're enjoying your stay wherever you go from a people whose tradition of welcoming strangers is matched only by their talent for making new friends.
So whether you want the splendid isolation that Monaghan native poet Patrick Kavanagh has written about or the variety of watersports and golf for the less sedentary visitor the North West can cater to your desires.