Welcome to the Ireland section. Here you will find detailed information about Irish history, culture, mythology, writers and music. It also provides you with Irish recipes, examples of the Irish language and the latest jobs on offer in Ireland.

Ireland may not be as far-flung or exotic a honeymoon location as beautiful Bali or the paradise Polynesians, or even as classic as Paris or Venice, but for a unique get-away of splendid walks, fireside pints and total peace, the charms of romantic Ireland can't be beaten.

Whether you're looking for the fast-pace of the capital or the vast golfing, boating and angling opportunities all over, there's something of interest in Ireland for all. This week we've rounded up a selection of some of the choicest places to lay your heads and get pampered up in style.

Dromoland Castle, Co Clare
(Tel. 061-363-355)
If you like the idea of coffee and pastries served to you (by your beloved, of course) in a four-poster bed, you won't get a more genuine feel of medieval life than in Ireland's "most famous baronial castle". Dating back from the 16th century, Dromoland is the ancestral seat of the O'Briens, who were direct descendants of High King Brian Ború. Replete with coats of arms, antique furniture, elegant dining areas and beautifully landscaped gardens, for a little slice of times past this place cannot be beaten. Snuggle up beside a roaring fire and tell each other ghost stories or take a stroll in the exquisite parklands and surrounding lakes and mountains. For an even more unique experience, enquire about staying in "Castle Keep Cottage", a purpose built cottage for two which is located within the castle walls.

Ashford Castle, Co Mayo
(Tel. 092-46003 or from the US 1-800-346-1001)
Ashford Castle sits on the lakeside of the charming village of Cong, where the now-classic movie "The Quiet Man" was filmed in the 1950s. The history of this castle predates the film greatly. Built in the 13th century, it was home to the Guinness family for generations until it was turned into the fabulous luxury hotel it is now. Stay here and join the litany of glamorous past guests, which include Grace Kelly and Mia Farrow. For a honeymoon break that's truly out of the ordinary, Ashford Castle won't disappoint.

Enniscoe House, Co Mayo
(Tel. 096-31112)
Listed as a heritage house of Ireland, Enniscoe House is a luxurious pink Georgian mansion residing on 150-acre parkland and situated on the lakeshore of Lough Conn, in the heart of the wild and rugged West. If this isn't enough to start your imagination wandering, add winding staircases, open fires, good organic home produced food and a warming, homely atmosphere. Lough Conn itself is rich in trout and salmon and there are three golf courses within easy reach, as well as riding stables in the area.

Humewood, Co. Wicklow
(Tel. 08-73215)
Having already been rated by "Conde Nast Traveler" as one of the fifty greatest private villas in the world, Humewood Castle's often-understated reputation has been assured. Originally built in a Gothic Revival style by renowned designer, William White, this place is not only an architectural gem but a place where you can lose yourself in dreams of Rapunzel and a Fairy Princess land. When you come back to reality it's the perfect place to set out and explore the Wicklow mountains and surrounding countryside. Available to rent by night or - if you're feeling flush - you can have the place to yourselves for the whole week.

The Clarence Hotel, Dublin
(Tel. 01-407-0800)
Forget all you hear about new hotels opening up, each one better and flashier than the one before, because there's only one place that's really at the heart of hip Dublin and that's "The Clarence". And, it has a history. Always the favourite watering hole of the U2 boys, the original two-star emporium had been an Irish institution since 1852. When it was threatened with destruction in 1992, Bono and friends stepped in to save the day. Ten years on, this sumptuous property has become the epicentre of Dublin cool. Simple, chic, friendly and central, you'll remember the time you spent here without a doubt.