Find your 'perfect somewhere' in the midlands of the Emerald Isle

Ireland's Hidden Heartlands

Orlaith Costello
September 05, 2024

Ireland's Hidden Heartlands — Ireland

The midlands Ireland are home to valleys draped in forests, ancient bog lands and unreal scenery — all waiting to be uncovered.

When visitors come to Ireland, they often miss out on the hidden gems of the heart of the island. There are so many things to discover in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, from wild swimming in the freshwater lakes and exploring mystical sites to enjoying delicious feeds at Michelin-starred restaurants before listening to a traditional music session at the oldest pub in the world.

To make it easier for you to uncover, we’ve crafted this guide to Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands together with Ireland.com. We’ve included everything from unique stays to the natural landmarks you should include on your itinerary.

Getting Around

Renting a car offers flexibility to explore the region, allowing for scenic drives through charming villages and riverside towns. Explore on two wheels on the numerous cycle routes or go by boat or canoe on the region’s waterways. Or hire a boat and set sail along the River Shannon. Ireland’s rail network, Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail), and bus routes operated by local providers and Bus Éireann link all major towns and cities.

Did You Know?

The River Shannon is the longest river in the Celtic Isles (which includes Ireland and Great Britain) at 360 kilometres. It meanders through impressive lakes, historic castles and bustling towns. The Shannon offers excellent opportunities for fishing, sailing and much more. It is named for the sea deity Sionnan, who, legend says, tried to find the source of all knowledge at the river’s origin. The beings of the ‘Otherworld’ were furious at her intention, so they pushed her out with such force that the water carved the country in two.

Locals Love

On the banks of the mighty River Shannon, you’ll find Athlone town. A town across two counties (Roscommon and Westmeath), it’s home to a bustling food, drink and cultural scene that makes Athlone a must-visit town. Check out Athlone Castle to learn about the city’s medieval history. Explore the local artist’s work at Luan Gallery. And you can’t go wrong with a pint and a feed at the oldest pub in the world, Sean’s Bar.

Don’t Miss

If you love history and science, you must stop at Birr Castle. Explore the Norman castle and its surrounding grounds, including its award-winning gardens, before heading out to see the historic Great Telescope, the Leviathan, once the world’s largest and still incredibly impressive. Come see where history and science collide.

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Walks and Hikes

Stretch your legs and take on some of the most idyllic walks in the heart of Ireland.

1. Royal Canal Greenway

Join at any of the five trailheads and take in stunning views, walk over 200-year-old bridges and spy native wildlife.

2. Ballycuggaran Crag Wood Walk

This loop trail boasts excellent views of Lough Derg but its steep path will put you to the test.

3. Lough Key Forest Park

Best visited during a misty morning to watch a hazy sunrise over Castle Island.

4. Glencar Hill Walk

Here you'll spy a freshwater lake, a waterfall and majestic mountains and cliffs.

5. Lough Derg Way

Follow the River Shannon upstream from Limerick city to Dromineer in County Tipperary on this epic three-day hike.

Top Restaurants and Gastropubs

Enjoy a meal at these popular pubs and eateries in the midlands.

1. The Oarsman

Tuck into a delicious feed at this multi-award-winning restaurant that's been included in the Michelin Guide.

2. MacNean House & Restaurant

Expect excellent food, service and surroundings at this spot from famed Irish chef Neven Maguire.

3. The Blue Apron Restaurant

Experience fine dining in the heart of Ireland at this highly awarded eatery.

4. Matt the Thresher Inn

As the song goes "It's a long way to Tipperary", but well worth it for a feed at this locale.

5. Luker's Bar

If you're looking for a hearty feed, traditional music and a warming fireplace, you can find all that and more here.

Historic Landmarks

There's much history to explore in Ireland's Hidden Heartlands from castles to cathedrals.

1. Cloughoughter Castle

Enjoy a sunset kayak around this eerie centuries-old castle fortress in the middle of a lake.

2. Clonmacnoise

Do as the ancient monks did and travel to this historical site by boat.

3. Seán Mac Diarmada's Cottage

Come see the only remaining homestead of one of the seven signatories of the Proclamation of the Irish Republic.

4. Rathcroghan

Explore the entrance to the 'Otherworld' where the legends of Irish myths and legend reside.

5. St Flannan's Cathedral

Check out ancient stone carvings including the only artefact in Ireland with ogham and runic scripts.

Legendary Pubs and Distilleries

Enjoy a drink at the oldest pub in the world or at the distilleries putting Irish whiskey on the world stage.

1. Sean's Bar

Enjoy a pint in the oldest pub in Ireland — serving locals since 900 AD.

2. Larkins

There's no better spot in Tipperary for traditional music and drinks in the sunshine than this popular locale.

3. Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery

Enjoy an Irish coffee on arrival and three whiskies straight from the barrel.

4. The Shed Distillery

Enjoy a tipple (or two) at the home of Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin.

5. Kilbeggan Distillery Visitor Centre

Come discover why a group of passionate locals decided to restore this local brand.

Waterway Adventures

The freshwater rivers and lakes of the heartlands have plenty of activities waiting for you.

1. Shannon Blueway Kayaking

Get off the beaten track (literally) and explore Ireland's most important (and longest) river by kayak.

2. Mountshannon Wild Swimming

Take a plunge in the fresh waters of the third-largest lake in Ireland.

3. Killaloe River Cruises

Slow things down as you sip on an Irish coffee on a relaxing river cruise up the River Shannon.

4. Shannon SUP

Give your core a workout as you enjoy the serene rivers and lakes in the midlands.

5. Silverline Cruisers

Take on the role of captain for a day and explore the famed river from your own house boat.

Unique Stays

Whether you're keen on a castle retreat or an off-grid escape, we've some special finds for you.

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