Catharina Day's comprehensive guide covers all the regions of Ireland, from the raw, rocky coastline of County Cork to the vibrant city of Belfast, taking in the wild mountain scenery of Connacht and the windswept Arran islands on route. It captures the contrasts at the heart of modern Ireland, a place that offers a lively cultural scene and all the luxuries the traveler would expect of a thriving European country, but still retains its wildernesses and romantic charms. Cadogan's Donegal-born author uncovers the magic of her beloved country with humor and affection; alongside all the practical information travelers could ever need, there are sections on Irish music, the meaning of place names, tracing ancestors and the legends of the fairy people. Now in its sixth edition, it has been updated to include the most current listings, extensive touring maps and the lowdown on where to sail, fish, play golf, hunt, and ride.