by MCM

Created on: July 06, 2009

Referred to as the "Model County", Wexford offers an abundance of attractions for locals and tourists alike. Located in on the south east coast of Ireland, County Wexford has traditionally been a popular holiday destination for Dubliners hoping to escape the rat race. Wexford town itself has been declared a heritage town, and is a vibrant boutique shopping spot with lively nightlife, while the county as a whole offers a multitude of activities for adventurers, historians, and families alike.

Wexford for the Nature Lover

Due to its extensive coastline, it comes as no surprise that County Wexford has numerous sandy beaches. Duncannon and Curracloe are the main ones, but can feel overcrowded if there is a glimmer of sunshine to attract the masses. A drive along the coast will soon lead you to one of the several smaller, more secluded beaches which dot the coastline.

Known for its abundance of sea life, the coast of Wexford is extremely popular for deep sea angling, reef fishing, and wreck fishing. Sea charter facilities can be booked through approved centres in Wexford town and at Kilmore Quay. For those amongst us who prefer to keep our legs firmly on dry land, there are plentiful opportunities for shore and river angling throughout the county. The River Slaney is well known for its salmon and trout fishing, with the salmon fishing season commencing on the 1st February, and the trout fishing season commencing on 1st March. Note that a licence must be obtained for fishing on the River Slaney.

For birdwatchers, Wexford is akin to paradise, with numerous wildlife reserves where rewarding days may be spent birdwatching. Amongst the areas for birdwatching in Wexford would be Hook Head, the Wexford North Sloblands and adjoining Raven Point Nature Reserve, or a boat trip around the internationally reknowned Saltee Islands. If you venture as far as Hook Head, a guided tour of Hook Lighthouse should not be missed. Located at the Wexford North Sloblands is Ireland's best known wildfowl reserve - the Wexford Wildfowl Reserve. It is possible to arrange guided tours there, and hides for birdwatching are also available.

The Kennedy connection to County Wexford

If you spend a few days in County Wexford, particularly around the New Ross and Dunganstown areas, you will quickly come to learn that John F. Kennedys ancestors hail from this part of the world. The connection has led to the creation of tourist attractions which are well worth a visit such as the

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