Visit Roscommon in the western hinterlands of Ireland to experience the true Celtic soul of Ireland. The old Irish ways linger here as the area was little touched by the Anglo-Norman invasion. You can discover authentic Ireland in the ancient burial mounds, tombs, castles and forts of Roscommon. More importantly, you can experience the Gaelic spirit in the congenial local pubs where the locals make time to chat to strangers.

Wedged between the Shannon River to the east, and its chief tributary, the Suck River, to the west, water dominates this county. These rivers together with a beautiful array of island-dotted lakes make Roscommon the perfect spot for water sports. You can enjoy angling along the River Suck and cruising and boating on the Shannon river.

County Roscommon's flat terrain makes it perfect for rambler and cyclists too. There are miles of pathways to explore including the Heartlands Cycle Trail, a 135 mile cycle route that runs along quiet country lanes from Roscommon town to Athlone. A number of golf courses also await and you can saddle up at the many equestrian centers. If you're there between April and October you can enjoy the Roscommon Racecourse program.

The culture and history buff can visit ancient castles and tombs, museums, stones, abbeys and heritage centers.

Transport: getting there and getting around

You can get to Ireland by ferry from the UK or France or by air from most anywhere. Roscommon is accessible by Bus ษireann from Sligo (53 miles), Galway (51 miles), and Dublin (91 miles).

Roscommon is also served by the Dublin-Sligo rail line, with a station at Boyle.

Plus the Dublin-Westport-Ballina line serves Roscommon with a station at Roscommon Town.

The nearest airports are Knock, Sligo and Galway. These are minor airports with limited services to other parts of Ireland and to Britain.

Climate: Irish weather and seasonal variations

In Ireland you should always be prepared for rain even at the height of summer. Fortunately, summer rains tend to be brief showers. And remember when you're packing that even in August it can get chill. Average summer temperatures range from 57 degrees to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (14 degrees to 24 degrees Celsius). In winter it gets down to 39 degrees to 45 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees to 7 degrees Celsius). Spring and autumn can also be delightful as the weather can be mild and there are fewer visitors.

Accommodation: from cheap stays to castles and manors

Country Roscommon offers a broad range of accommodation options ranging from intimate inns, hotels, guesthouses, bed & breakfasts, farmhouses, cottages, villas, apartments, and self catering properties. And if you really want the best, a number of country manors and castles offer the true aristocratic experience.

Events: there's always something on in Roscommon

County Roscommon features a vibrant schedule of uniquely Irish events and activities including festivals, movies, theatres, live music, concerts, exhibitions and sports activities.

*O'Carolan Harp and Traditional Music Festival and Summer School

*The sport of Kings; day and evening meetings in Roscommon Racecourse.

*Castlerea Trade and Agricultural Show

*Boyle Arts Festival famed for its Group exhibition of contemporary Irish art