Creative Commons licensePhoto by flickr user infomatique

Counties Wexford, Waterford, Kilkenny and Carlow make up the area which is best known as the Sunny South East because of a micro-climate which affords this region rather more sunshine than one would expect from the rain-washed Emerald Isle. The South East offers some of Ireland's best beaches with miles of completely unspoilt white sand backed by towering dunes; fishing villages with working harbours dot the coastline whilst inland lie small market towns surrounded by lush farmland and commanded by the ruins of castles and abbeys. The region's cities are rich in art and culture (and shopping) and any visitor looking for a taste of Irish night life will find a generous selection of vibrant entertainment in the numerous traditional pubs. The region is also well-known for its excellent golfing and fishing. The famous 'cead mile failte' (a hundred thousand welcomes) is evident everywhere: people offering assistance if you need directions or advice. However, expect a more idiosyncratic approach to hotel service where standards and efficiency are inconsistent. The order by which the hotels are listed bears no reflection on our preference.

Written by Sonja McGinn