Lismore

Ireland

Lismore sits in County Waterford's Blackwater valley, a heritage town of 1,400 that's well connected by regional roads. From Cork, it's 60km via the N8 to Fermoy then the R666 east. Waterford city is 65km away via the N72. The town has no rail link, so you'll need a car. Lismore Castle, perched above the Blackwater since 1185, now houses contemporary art and belongs to the Duke of Devonshire. The Heritage Centre tells the story of St. Carthage's 7th-century monastery, while Georgian buildings line the main street. The castle's upper garden boasts magnificent magnolias, some over 150 years old, that put on a proper show each spring.