Set in the province of Connaught, County Leitrim rests in north-western Ireland. Leitrim is surrounded by the counties of Donegal to the north, Cavan to the east, Longford to the south, Roscommon and Sligo to the west and Northern Ireland to the east. The county gains its name from the village of Leitrim while Carrick-on-Shannon serves as the county town. The county once created part of the ancient kingdom of Bréifne which was guided by the O'Rourke family of Dromahair. The heraldic lion of the O'Rourke family is still visible on the official county shield of Leitrim. The country population faced a steep drop following the Irish Potato Famine which progressed into the 20th-century providing local and international visitors with a wealth of uncongested landscapes and sites to enjoy with almost no stream of traffic! Swarming tourists don't overburden the local communities, and they welcome all with genuine warmth. There are many captivating attractions within the county like the beautiful, visitor-friendly Glencar waterfall. Leitrim is home to ten stunning lakes which are great for scenic walks and boat rides. The crumbling Creevelea Abbey is also worth a visit though it may be slightly difficult to reach. The food scene has grown by leaps and bounds, and self-sustainable lifestyles are all the rage. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, paddle boarding, surfing, kayaking, boating and cycling.