The Guide Leinster West meath _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Map of West meath _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ West Meath Much of Westmeath is covered in rich farmland, which is mostly used for grazing cattle. The county's lakes near the two main towns of Mullingar and Athlone are popular fishing and boating areas. Sailing on Lough Ree and Shannon cruises to the impressive Clonmacnoise monastic site in County Offaly can also be organised from Athlone. The Fore Valley is one of the most interesting historical areas in the county, where the ruined churches centre around the foundation of a monastery by Saint Fechin who was said to have caused Seven Wonders, such as water flowing uphill to have occurred in the valley. The famous legend about the Children of Lir who were turned into swans by their jealous stepmother is based on Lough Derravaragh near Mullingar. Visits to the Market House Museum and Belvedere House and Gardens both near Mullingar reveal that some interesting characters have also influenced Westmeath's more recent history. Quick guide to West Meath Inis recommends - Fishing and boating in West Meath Tourist Attractions _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Design and content by INIS (Irish News Internet Services 1998-99) Contact INIS by emailing inis@irishnews.com or Tel: 01232 322226 Copyright © the Irish News Internet Services