The Tannery Townhouse and Restaurant in Dungarvan has long been a favourite stop-off with both foodies and those who like their creature comforts, its reputation augmented by a myriad of awards. Paul and Maire Flynn have created a very stylish guesthouse in this renovated industrial building and they're currently offering rates of 60 per person sharing per night, which includes breakfast served in the room. And while you're here, it would be very remiss of you not to sample Paul's amazing cooking at the Tannery, where he does modern Irish cuisine with a continental twist Call 058 45420 or visit www. tannery. ie for more details.

The Outdoor Break
WALK THIS WAY

If the idea of an activity-driven holiday appeals but you're not quite in the bungee jumping/white-water rafting league, walking tours offer a happy middle ground . . . lots of fresh air, moderate exercise and the opportunity to to see the countryside.

Uwalk. ie offers a range of walks . . . from easy to challenging . . . in a number of scenic destinations, including The Azores, Madeira and Austria. There's a choice of accommodation, including apartments and five-star hotels. Visit www. uwalk. ie for more details.

The Budget Break
BE OUR GUEST

The concept of flashbacking . . . staying in basic accommodation and surviving on sandwiches by day while living it up in posh restaurants and chi chi clubs by night . . .

holds much appeal for those of us with champagne taste and a lemonade budget. If you'd like to save even more money for your visits to Michelin-starred restaurants, check out www. couchsurfing. com. This is a site where you can find a free place to stay or people to hang out with on your travels. Just ensure you're the perfect guest . . . don't be messy, do the dishes . . .

because you don't want unflattering comments about you posted on the message boards.

The Castle Break
BURREN BABY BURREN

Just published, Alastair Sawday's Special Places to Stay guide to Ireland features many gems, including the imposing Ballyportry Castle in Co Clare. This 500year-old Gaelic tower boasts vaulted ceilings, four stories and a roof with hammocks between the battlements. Its owners say that they would like to attract more Irish visitors to the castle, where they can experience the majesty of the Burren firsthand. The castle, for eight people, costs 2,300- 2,900 a week. Call 01 660 9038 or visit www. ballyportry. ie for more information.

The Pocket Guide
ASK FOR DIRECTIONS

We love the Rough Guide series of travel books but for the mini-break they can be a bit unwieldy to pack in your carry-on case. Far more suitable for a weekend away are the Rough Guide's Directions series. These slim little numbers contain a third of each guide with up-to-date information, maps and, best of all, a searchable disk, suitable for PCs and Macs, with live weblinks to hotels and other relevant sites. Destinations covered include a mix of cities, islands and countries.