If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and wander off the beaten track this summer then you’re in for a treat from Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing, tranquil escape, a romantic couple’s break or family fun activity this region has it all.
Shannon cruise
Hiring a boat is one of the best ways to enjoy the many gems Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands has to offer. The perfect blend of activity and relaxation for couples, groups of friends and families, go as slow or as fast as you want along the majestic Shannon, taking in the tranquil spots and many historic locations along the various routes available. There is much to explore in the bustling town of Carrick-on-Shannon and its picturesque marina, from where you can cruise north to Lough Key or south to Tarmonbarry in Roscommon via Dromod and Rooskey in Leitrim. Or cast your net wider and take your boat from Banagher in Offaly to Glasson in Westmeath.
Clonmacnoise, Co Offaly
One of Ireland’s most significant ancient sites, here you will find a fascinating glimpse of the monastic city which once stood at this location overlooking the Shannon. There is a wealth of archaeological heritage to be discovered, including the ruins of a cathedral, the famous round towers and the magnificent high crosses, on display in the visitor centre next to the monastic enclosure. The Nun’s Church is considered to be among the best examples of Hiberno-Romanesque architecture in Ireland. heritageireland.ie
Lough Boora Discovery Park, Co Offaly
Blow the winter cobwebs off in Lough Boora, about half an hour’s drive from Clonmacnoise. Previously a commercial bog, the park is now a biodiversity-boosting wildlife wonderland which you can explore on foot or by various walking and cycling routes – bikes are available to hire. Admire the distinctive outdoor sculptures dotted throughout the park, and make some magical memories – and a wish – on fairy avenue. loughboora.com
Lough Key Forest Park, Co Roscommon
For those who like a hit of adrenaline with their nature fix, Lough Key Forest Park in Co Roscommon is just the ticket. It features Ireland’s only tree-canopy walk, a brilliant vantage point from which to observe the area’s stunning landscape. Unleash your inner Tarzan on the zip-lines, or take to the lake for a more relaxing boat tour. The park has various graded walking and cycling trails which cater for all ages and abilities. If you are up for a challenge Lough Key is also home to Boda Borg, a Swedish concept unique to Ireland. Requiring a minimum of three people, your team will progress through a series of rooms involving quests and challenges that will require plenty of ingenuity, imagination and teamwork. loughkey.ie
Beara Breifne Way
This route which winds its way from Cork to Cavan deserves to be better-known and explored. One of the largest community-based projects in Ireland, it traces the footsteps of the legendary chieftain O’Sullivan Beare who in 1603 marched with 1,000 supporters against the English crown forces. The route is divided into a dozen different trail sections from the coast of the Beara Peninsula across six mountain ranges, along the banks of the Shannon and through the lake regions of Roscommon and Leitrim. Much of the land on the route is private but local landowners have come together to grant access. As a fun option get your “passport” stamped as you complete each section. bearabreifneway.ie
Dún na Sí heritage and amenity park, Moate, Co Westmeath
More outdoor adventure awaits at this 27-acre parkland where tradition combines with heritage and nature as you discover how rural communities lived in the past. Located in the literal heart of Ireland, the heritage park features a pet farm and such gems as a reconstructed hedge school used to teach children when Catholic schools were banned during the Penal Laws. Among the many attractions in the amenity park are a sensory garden and a turlough – a lake that appears during the winter only to vanish again in late spring. dunnasi.ie
Acres Lake boardwalk, Drunshanbo, Co Leitrim
Check out Ireland’s first floating boardwalk in the lovely village of Drunshanbo at the start of a walking and cycling trail along the Shannon Blueway to Battlebridge Lock, near Leitrim village. At the village you can join the Shannon-Erne Blueway, one of a series of water and land-based trails running along Ireland’s lakes, canals and rivers. Originally designed as a working waterway in the 19th century, it now forms a picturesque route from Leitrim village to Belturbet in Co Cavan which can be explored on foot, by bike or even by kayak for the more adventurous. bluewaysireland.org
Lough Derg
It would take more than a day trip to cover all the places to see and things to do around this bountiful lake, which is located between the counties of Clare, Tipperary and Galway. Walkers will enjoy exploring Lough Derg Way and East Clare Way, as well as the looped walks dotted around the lake. There is beautiful scenery to enjoy and plenty of places to take a break and sample the delicious local food – if you want to try catching your own just bring a fishing rod. From the lush gardens of Portumna Castle in Co Galway to the busy harbour in the village of Terryglass, you won’t be disappointed.
Glenstal Abbey, Co Limerick
Those seeking peace and tranquillity will find it at this abbey, originally built for the Barrington family in the 1830s and home to the Benedictine Order since the 1920s. Visitors are welcome to stroll throughout the extensive grounds and admire the terrace garden. They can also join the community’s worship at set times throughout the day, and the Icon Chapel can be visited by arrangement.
Rathcroghan Visitor Centre, Co Roscommon
For a history lesson with a difference, visit Rathcroghan (Cruachan Aí) which was once known as the ancient capital of Connacht and home to the mythical warrior Queen Medb. The surrounding area is of significant archaeological importance, encompassing various sites dating back 5,500 years. Located nearby is Oweynagat, Cave of the Cats, believed to be the birthplace of the Irish pre-Christian festival of Samhain, the precursor to Halloween. rathcroghan.ie