Four counties and four great rivers make up the South East of Ireland. The Barrow, Blackwater, Suir, Slaney and the Nore flow through a countryside rich in antiquity. Some of the most famous castles in Ireland are to be found here in arguably the most pleasant climate in the country, which gives the region its nickname, the 'Sunny South East'.
The Rock of Cashel in Tipperary is one of the first stops for someone entering the region from the northwest. Towering over the town of Cashel this ancient fortress, parts of which date back to the fourth century was once the seat of power of the Kings of Munster and was captured by the ancient Irish hero Brian Boru in the 10th century. Surrounded by mighty stone walls the site is well worth a visit.
Further south is the coastal town of Waterford. A pleasant seaside resort and home to internationally famous Waterford Crystal, manufactures of the world's finest crystal since 1783 and visited by a quarter of a million tourists every year. Waterford was founded by the Vikings and tours of the city are an experience no visitor should miss.
Moving out from Waterford town and along the scenic southern coast of the country towards Wexford one encounters a multitude of small, picturesque fishing villages ready to welcome the weary traveller.
It is in Wexford that one of the most important events in Irish history took place and the 1798 Rebellion is well remembered with a visitor's centre in Enniscorthy providing an illuminating experience of Ireland at the time and the effects the Rebellion has to this day. But if a mere 200 years ago is not enough for the history buff the Irish National Heritage Park at Ferrycarrig provides the sights, sounds and smells of Ireland stretching back over 9,000 years.
Kilkenny are currently All-Ireland hurling champions and the passion and enthusiasm for all sorts of sporting activity is clear from the people you meet. From the championship quality golf course at Mount Juliet to the game and coarse angling on the Nore with some excellent equestrian facilities Kilkenny offers everything the sporting enthusiast could want. And if a visitor wants a few pointers on hurling the 'Cats' of Kilkenny can provide that too.
Perhaps one of the clearest indications of the quality and attractiveness of the region is in the number of Irish people who visit it on their holidays each year. From the historical sights to the water sports available up and down the coast the South East has everything to offer a guest.