If the traveller wants to take a long-distance walk along the Kerry Way, then route plans and suggestions are here in full. But if you prefer to spend an hour in your hotel room soaking up a country's culture and traditions, that's here too in sharp and pithy detail. The section on Dublin exemplifies the guide's accessibility: we are led from O'Connell Street through Parnell Square and the Phoenix Park, and sidebars on the area's history are seamlessly incorporated along with the maps and essential information (the guide maintains a balanced tone when touching on Ireland's troubled history). There is a clear rush of enthusiasm from the writers (Sean Sheehan and Patricia Levy) when we are taken south of the river, and sections on Trinity College (and, of course, the Book of Kells), Temple Bar and Dublin Castle suggests that these are clearly favourite destinations. But the guide is equally adroit at conveying the delights of County Galway, which it describes as the one place in Ireland that sums up what the country is all about. This ancient but culturally dynamic part of Ireland is granted the same sympathetic and comprehensive treatment. At times travel details could be more comprehensive, and the design is functional rather than striking, but the final effect of the guide is to make the reader impatient to visit Ireland, with Sheehan and Levy's book securely packed in a rucksack.--Barry Forshaw

Synopsis
Part of a series of British Isles travel guides, this is a comprehensive guide to the whole of Ireland from the Glens of Antrim to the bays of West Cork. Written by two authors who have a close knowledge, understanding and affinity with Ireland, it draws on the entire culture and history of the country to conjure up its spirit, while giving information for travellers on the practicalities and the wide variety of activities Ireland has to offer. The highlights are illustrated with colour photography, and there are detailed descriptions of long distance walks such as the Kerry Way.