The Sunny Southeast has something for everybody and some of the finest hotels in Ireland are situated in this part of the country. Why not experience one of the stunning hotels in Wexford for yourself and indulge in a relaxing spa escape or fun-filled family break. We have put together some of our favourite things to do and see in this region all within close proximity to some of the most special Wexford hotels.
1. Hook Lighthouse: Dubbed by Lonely Planet as the ‘no.1 Flashiest Lighthouse in the World’, Hook Lighthouse is one of the world’s oldest operational lighthouses and has been marking the entrance to Waterford Harbour for at least 2000 years.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours of this 13th century lighthouse with multi-lingual literature, a beautiful café as well as craft shop selling unique gifts.
2. Johnstown Castle & Gardens: This splendid 19th-century castellated house is the former home of the once-mighty Fitzgerald and Esmonde families. Overlooking a small lake, the castle is surrounded by 20 hectares of beautiful wooded gardens complete with a sunken Italian garden, statues and waterfalls as well as meandering peacocks.
In the castle outbuildings, the Irish Agricultural Museum has an exhibition about the Great Famine and quizzes and trails geared towards children.
3. JFK historical sites: John F. Kennedy had strong connections to Wexford and the sites of the Kennedy Homestead and the Kennedy Arboretum are a must see if you have an interest in his family or the issue of emigration more generally. The Kennedy Homestead pieces together the story of this famous Irish–American family through the 20th century to the present day and offers a unique insight into this period in history.
The Arboretum on the other hand offers the perfect family day out with 200 forest plots, a visitor centre, signposted walks and a picnic area. A pony & trap transport system and miniature railway make it a fun day out for kids.
4. Saltee Islands: If you have a penchant for exploring, these unspoilt islands are the place for you. With a famous sea-bird sanctuary, a breeding population of Grey Seals and breath-taking coastal walks the Saltee’s are one of the most spectacular sights in Ireland.
The Saltee Islands are located off the beautiful traditional Irish fishing village of Kilmore Quay, the perfect place to sample some local seafood.
5. Dunbrody Cookery School: Learn a new skill and excite your taste buds at the Dunbrody Cookery School. All of the courses at the Dunbrody Cookery School have been personally designed by Celebrity Masterchef Kevin Dundon to cater for all levels of cooks, from budding enthusiasts to more specialised courses for experienced cooks. The cookery school offers one day, two day or five day long courses – all of which aim to produce fabulous dishes in an uncomplicated way.
With some much to do and see, there are plenty of reasons to treat yourself to a break with one of our fantastic Wexford hotels on Irelandhotels.com