The best traffic-free bike rides around Rosslare

This Cistercian abbey, located in a valley northeast of the peninsula, was founded in 1200 by the Norman William de Clare. During his first trip to Ireland, he was caught in a storm and vowed to found an abbey if he survived. Monks inhabited the site until the 16th century, after which the abbey was owned by the Colclough family for almost 400 years. The complex, which offers a very photogenic view from the fortified bridge, has preserved beautiful remains, including an imposing crenellated tower.

15th-century Norman tower house in the open coastal landscape of Kilmore. The massive square tower and narrow crenellations show the defensive character of the medieval Bargy region. The castle stands on private land but is excellently visible from the road, forming a striking silhouette among the fields. Together with Bargy Castle and Butlerstown Castle, it marks one of the densest clusters of Norman power centres in South Wexford.

Butlerstown Castle is a medieval tower house in southwest County Wexford, typical of the fortified houses built throughout Ireland between the 15th and 17th centuries. The castle was in the heartland of the Norman Butler family, who owned land here since the 12th century. Although the building is largely a ruin today, the massive walls, corner structures, and parts of the upper section are still clearly recognizable. It is situated on a slight elevation in the open agricultural landscape, giving it strategic views of the surroundings.

Sigginstown Castle is a 16th-century tower house in Tacumshane, County Wexford, which has recently been fully restored and now functions as a small heritage centre and visitor attraction. It is one of the best-preserved examples of a Southern Irish tower house.

In the middle of the village of Carrig-on-Bannow, you will be surprised by an impressive tribute to Irish history: the mural "The Norman". This artwork on the side wall of the Community Centre was created in 2020 by artist Magda Karol as part of the Walls Project. It forms a visual bridge to the year 1169, when the first Normans set foot on land in the nearby Bannow Bay—an event that would forever change the fate of Ireland. The mural is officially part of the 'Norman Way' and invites you to slow down and reflect on the deep historical roots of this tranquil landscape.

The Port Láirge shipwreck (also known as the "Saltmills Shipwreck") is an iconic remnant of a steam dredger resting in the mud of Bannow Bay, near St. Kearns Quay in County Wexford. On August 26, 1987, the ship sailed under its own power from Waterford to Bannow Bay. It ran aground during a storm or through the shallow waters of the bay near St. Kearns. It has lain there rusting ever since. Today, the wreck is a popular location for photographers and filmmakers because of its dramatic, rusty appearance against the tides.

Metal Artwork near Duncormick Small group of welded metal figures – including a dog – along the R736, just past the Castle Site and on the hill. A piece of local folk-art, visible from the road and a playful marker in the open landscape towards Wellingtonbridge.

This charming little port (population 372) has many assets: old thatched houses, beautiful sandy beaches, waters suitable for kayaking, and several welcoming pubs. Few tourists visit this paradise, but it's certainly very welcoming and worth a stop.