by Frances Stanford

Created on: December 24, 2008

Enniskillen, Ireland, will give you the vacation you desire in its small town atmosphere and friendly people where you can get a true sense of what Irish culture and heritage is all about. This town of about 15,000 offers a wide variety of accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets as well as many bars and restaurants where you can relax and unwind. Along with modern shopping centres, there are also family run businesses for your shopping needs. Browse the extensive selection of items, some of which will give you unique ideas of souvenirs of your visit to the Emerald Isle.

The location of Enniskillen between the two lochs of Upper and Lower Erne lends itself to a wide variety of water based activities. A boating cruise is just one of these activities. The Fermanagh region is the longest waterway in Europe with over 700 km of canals, rivers and lakes. There are also many islands in the lochs on which you can land and spend the day exploring. Pack a picnic lunch and make the day of it. Fishing in the Enniskillen region will likely be the best fishing experience of your life. Fish from shore or rent a boat. You can even rent all the fishing tackle that you need.

Enniskillen Castle is one of the attractions you must visit when you come to this town. This was once the stronghold of the Maguire chieftains and offers you a look back in time. The keep of this medieval castle is surrounded by barracks that date to the 19th century. The Heritage Center on this site will give you a thorough look at the wildlife, history and changing landscapes of the region. Throughout the year there are various exhibitions on display, most of which have won international awards.

Castle Coole is a neo-classical mansion set on a wooded estate spanning 1200 acres. It dates back to the late 18th century and was built as the summer retreat of the first Earl Belmore. It is open to the public and features a redesigned Victorian bedroom that shows the Australian influence on the castle. Visit St. Macartin's Cathedral, where you will be enthralled with the architecture inside and out.

Take a trip to see the underground world of the Marble Arch Caves. The cave formations are simply outstanding and the lighting makes it possible for you to take in all the stalagmites and stalactities. The boats are electronic and will take you though the caverns of this part of Enniskillen that few visitors get to see.

The beauty of the scenery of Enniskillen is something that will remain with you long after you return home.

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