Al-Masmak Palace is a clay and mud-brick fortress whose pivotal role in Saudi history belies its modest scale. Built around 1865, it was the site of the daring 1902 raid that led to the recapture of Riyadh, a foundational event for the modern kingdom. The spearhead from that assault remains embedded in its main gate. Today, the palace functions as a museum, its former residential quarters and majlis displaying historical photographs, weapons, and multimedia exhibits that chronicle the story of the nation's unification.

A Coruña has been dubbed the ‘city of glass’ and one need only head to the waterfront to understand why. Multi-story houses sport a rather unusual and almost uniform protective layer of “gallerias” or glassed-in balconies.

This driving route explores Waterford, Tramore, Dungarvan, Comeragh Mountains Loop, Lemybrien, and back to Waterford city. From hidden coves to mountain scenery, this loop passes Waterford’s coastal UNESCO-site, The Geopark, before venturing into the mountains to the spectacular Mahon Falls. The first stop along this smorgasbord of coastal and mountain scenery is Tramore, a quintessential Victorian seaside resort. Driving towards Newtown Head, look for the Metal Man perched on one of three pillars on the headland. From here, continue west (via R675) along the Copper Coast, a UNESCO European Geopark named for its 19th century mining heritage. It’s a hypnotic route, spotted with Blue Flag beaches, stunning views and pretty villages like Annestown and Stradbally. Finally you will arrive in Dungarvan. From Dungarvan, the R672 links with Ballymacarbry, where a right turn takes you through the walker’s wonderland that is the Nire Valley. Continuing east to the R678 and R676 crossroads, there are two options – turning north to Carrick on Suir before taking the N24 back to Waterford, or turning south (via R676) towards Mahon Falls, a 240-foot waterfall tumbling spectacularly off the glaciated range, towards Waterford via Lemybrien (via N25), spare a thought for William Crotty, a notorious highwayman hanged in the city in 1742. Crotty robbed coaches travelling along what is today’s N25, and his treasure is still said to be stashed amongst the corrie lakes in the Comeragh Mountains.

Bali Bird Park is home to around 250 bird species—some native, others from as far as South America and Africa. There’s also a small reptile section, including a Komodo dragon. It’s a good stop if you're into wildlife or visiting with kids.