Roscommon (Ros Comáin) does have a remote and landlocked attraction to it. If traveling on the train from Dublin, you'll be able to see all the bog land. Further exploration into the heart of the county reveals some real treasures; there are over 5,000 ancient ruins.

Roscommon Town is a busy commercial area, but worth a quick visit. The Roscommon Museum (090 662 5613, open June–September, Monday–Friday, 10 A.M.–3 P.M.), the quadrangular Norman Castle (1269), and the Dominican Priory can easily take up two hours.

While in County Roscommon be sure to check out Strokestown Village and its Park House, Gardens, and Famine Museum. The pleasant village of Strokestown (B éal na mBuillí) offers some interesting (and educational) attractions, including a raw look back at tragic times accurately portrayed in the Famine Museum. It is connected to the Strokestown Park House (071 963 3013, www.strokestownpark.ie). The estate has the longest herbaceous border in Britain and Ireland, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. Open mid-March to the end of October, daily, 10:00 A.M.–5:30 P.M. Guided tours available Monday–Friday, 11:30 A.M., 2:00 P.M., and 4:00 P.M.; Saturday–Sunday, 5:00 P.M. only. Call for other openings. Combined admission to House, Gardens, and Museum 6/12/13. Separate tickets and group rates available.