From the Slieve Bloom Mountains in the south to the peaceful flow of the River Shannon, this natural landscape provides a perfect setting for outdoor activities such as walking, mountaineering, horse riding and golf. Pleasure cruising is popular on the River Shannon and rock climbing, abseiling and hiking are available in the Slieve Bloom Mountains. There is good trout and salmon fishing in the rivers.

• Holiday cottages in Ireland

This green land is also the home of Tullamore Dew and Irish Mist whiskeys. The Tullamore Dew Heritage Centre tells the tale of Irish whiskey making and offers visitors a taste of the finished product.

The town of Birr is a monument to Georgian elegance, with wide tree-lined streets and fine buildings. There is a signposted walking tour in the town, which guides the visitor around the main sights. 17th century Birr Castle is open to the public and houses interesting scientific exhibits, including a large Victorian telescope. The gardens are spectacular and feature such refinements as a 19th century suspension bridge and the tallest box hedges in the world.

Clonmacnoise is Ireland's most significant monastic site. This hallowed ground has been the site of Christian tradition since 545AD. The monastery became a major scholastic centre for early Middle Age Irish monks. The Vikings attempted to destroy the practise of Christianity in this area and attacked the monastery and placed a pagan priestess at the high altar. Subsequently, the monastery was attacked again by the Normans and the Irish. The ruins of this atmospheric site still stand today.    

Cottage holidays in County Offaly, Ireland: