It's the undoubted lure of the landscape, along with the easy pace and rhythms of life, which draw the majority of visitors to Ireland. Once there, you won't be disappointed: turquoise, rain-hazed lakes and wild, bluff coastlines, the inspired talent for conversation and the place of music and language at the heart of Irish culture all conspire to ensure that the reality lives up to expectations. More surprising perhaps is just how much variety this very small land packs into its countryside. Spectacular seascapes unfold from rocky headlands where the crash of the sea against the cliffs and myriad of islands is often the only sound. It is perfect if you want space to walk, bike or (with a bit of bravado) swim, or if you want to fish, sail or spend a week on inland waterways. In the smaller towns too the pleasures are unhurried, evenings over a Guinness or two in the snug of a pub, listening to the chat around a blood-orange turf fire.

Capital City = Dublin
Time Zone = GMT
Currency = Euro
Official Language = English