The Mythological Centre of Ireland, this ancient ceremonial site is one of the most sacred and historical sanctuaries in the world.  The burial site of the Earth Goddess Ériu, the founder of Ireland and the Sun God Lugh, this enigmatic hill became the seat of the High Kings of Ireland and the meeting point of the ancient provinces where laws were struck and divisions agreed. The ‘Catstone’, a huge weathered limestone boulder under which Ériu is buried, is the most famous of over forty surviving features on the hilltop. On Uisneach the first Great Fire of Ireland was lit to announce the dawn of summer and these ‘Bealtaine Fires’ and Druid Ceremonies are now celebrated with an annual festival in May.  Passionate local tour guides at Uisneach will take you on a fascinating journey into the spiritual past of ancient Ireland. Website: uisneach.ie Phone: 0877189550 Email: tours@uisneach.ie

Tullynally Castle’s majestic presence dominates a breathtaking landscape, with 12 acres of beautifully restored 18th Century gardens, terraced lawns, remarkable mature trees, walled flower gardens and ornamental lakes.  The current owner, Thomas Pakenham has added a wealth of unusual trees and shrubs, many of them collected as seed on his travels, including superb collections of rare magnolias and lilies. The sunny Tearoom in the Castle Courtyard offers teas, coffee and delicious homemade food throughout the day and a splendid family coach is on display. Tullynally stands atop the ‘Hill of the Swan’, with views of Lough Derravaragh, the legendary lake where the ‘Children of Lir’ were turned into swans by their jealous stepmother and condemned to 900 years of wandering. Tullynally Castle has been home to the Pakenham family (later the Earls of Longford) for over 350 years. Guided tours of the huge rambling Gothic Revival castle in all its grandeur are available Thursdays to Saturdays, including the early Victorian kitchens and laundries, with a fascinating insight into the real stories of Irish history. Website: tullynallycastle.ie Phone: 0449661856 Email: info@tullynallycastle.ie

This magnificent 160 acre estate on the shores of Lough Ennell features a fully restored Georgian villa, Victorian Walled Garden, 18th Century parkland and woodland walking trails.  But most intriguing are the various romantic follies and each of these impressive structures has a captivating story to tell.  The Jealous Wall at Belvedere is the largest folly in Ireland and hides a story of sibling rivalry and the haunting past of the ‘Wicked Earl’ who once owned Belvedere.  At the visitor centre, guided tours of the house and estate can be booked for groups, or you can choose to explore it yourself. The Victorian Walled Garden features many exotic plants and is well worth a visit, followed by stroll through the extensive mature woodlands and magical Fairy Garden.  For children Belvedere offers lots to do, with four great play areas and a 30m zipline.  Facilities include a fully licensed cafe, gift shop and ample car parking. Book your guided tour and learn the intriguing tales of the ‘Wicked Earl’ who built Belvedere and the stories behind the awe-inspiring follies waiting to be discovered on this lakeside estate and parkland. Website: belvedere-house.ie Phone: 044 93 38960 Email: info@belvedere-house.ie