The highlights

1. Dunbrody Ship

Begin at New Ross with a visit to the Dunbrody, a full-scale replica of a ‘famine ship’ that took thousands of desperate travellers, including President John F Kennedy’s great-grandfather, to a new life in the USA.

2. Ballyhack/Passage East

Follow the lanes south along the Hook Peninsula to Ballyhack, where a brief car ferry journey carries you past bobbing hulls to the coloured fishermen’s houses of Passage East. Ask for an explanation of the phrase ‘by Hook or by Crook’.

3. Waterford

Head northwest to the bustling, historical port of Waterford and take a walking tour of Ireland’s oldest city. Stop at the famous Crystal Visitors Centre to watch the creation of masterpieces, such as champagne flutes for fashion designer John Rocha, and visit the Waterford Treasures museum for 1,000 years of history.

4. Dunmore East

Continuing along the Southeast Coastal Drive, pull up at this chic fishing village of thatched cottages for crab sandwiches and home-made brownies at The Melting Pot on Dock Road.

5. Tramore

Sea holly and wild asparagus sway by the water at stunning white-sand Tramore Strand. Around the bay you’ll find a traditional family resort with all the fun of the seaside.

6. Dungarvan/Ring

Follow the coast to Dungarvan, a blossoming port town. The sleek Tannery Restaurant (00 353 58 45420) on the quay is a foodie fave. In the Gaelic area of Ring, 10km south, Irish is spoken on the streets and sung at traditional music sessions in cosy, lamplit bars.

7. Ardmore/Youghal

The Southeast Coastal Drive ends at this pocket-sized seaside resort. Fuel up on local goat’s cheese salad and raspberry trifle at the White Horses Cafe, then head past the church’s round tower for a circular clifftop walk with stunning views all the way. Finally, head to Youghal, 10 minutes south of Ardmore, to find antique-strewn bedrooms and succulent lobster at Aherne’s Seafood Restaurant & Accommodation (00 353 249 2424, www.ahernes.com). Doubles from £110.

For more information on touring Ireland, call 0800 039 7000 or visit www.tourismireland.com.

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