County Kildare is home to the windswept Bog of Allen, and to a leisurely section of the restored Royal Canal. There’s a masterpiece of an 8th-century High Cross in Moone. Maynooth Castle anchors the leafy university town of the same name. Kildare is also home to one of Ireland’s great driving routes. Following the course of the Gordon Bennett Cup, which saw racing daredevils whizz through Kildare, Carlow and Laois in 1903, the 104-mile circuit recalls a time when Ireland’s speed limit was just 12mph. The county is a marvellous mix of old and new, of natural landscapes and precisely manicured gardens, of horseracing competitions and stylish fashion events.

Cofresí Beach has a long stretch of golden sand that's perfect for swimming and surfing. Locals mainly use the public area on Sundays.

Oviedo’s Cathedral combines Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance elements. Its 15th-century spire looms over a medieval basilica built by the first prince of Asturias. The cathedral as a whole was finally completed in the 16th century, after more than 250 years of construction work. The main altarpiece, depicting the life of Christ, is in Flemish Gothic style. The cloister is home to the Diocesan Museum, with a number of important archaeological relics.