Horse Racing

Punchestown Racecourse. A wonderful setting amid rolling plains distinguishes the Punchestown Racecourse, with the Wicklow Mountains providing a spectacular backdrop. Horse races are held regularly, but the most popular event is the Punchestown National Hunt Festival in April, a real pilgrimage for fans of steeplechase racing. R411, Naas, Co. Kildare. 045/897–704; www.punchestown.com.