How to travel Ireland's Hidden Heartlands

Irish natural beauty and untouched heritage are the focal points of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. This region is comprised of nine midland counties - Cavan, Clare, Galway, Leitrim, Longford, Offaly, Roscommon, Tipperary and Westmeath - which all have stunning sights to see and wonderful places to visit. The Hidden Heartlands celebrate the areas of the Emerald Isle that move at a different pace, inviting visitors to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

A tranquil experience

This peaceful stretch of the midlands is home to a wealth of rich history and heritage, including outstanding castles and historical religious sites. The region is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its fantastic waterways and greenways. The Heartlands have an abundance of rivers, streams and lakes that lend themselves to amazing fishing, watersports and boat trips. There are also countless walking and cycling trails, through varied terrains, which allow visitors to enjoy the crisp Irish air whilst taking in the stunning natural beauty that surrounds them. Above all else, the Hidden Heartlands are made up of Irish towns and villages, which are home to friendly locals, delicious cuisine and a vibrant culture like no other.

Accommodation

The best way to travel Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands is by choosing to stay in Irish Bed and Breakfasts, which can act as the perfect base for exploring your surroundings. This region of Ireland is considered to have “the roads less travelled” which is why it boasts such unspoilt beauty. Despite this, B&Bs are dotted throughout each of the Hidden Heartland counties, where hosts are waiting to welcome you into their homes and provide you with a peaceful night’s sleep and delicious home-cooking. B&B hosts are renowned for their local knowledge and are always more than happy to help guests plan their trip, with great recommendations and an insight into the area’s hidden gems. By staying in a B&B, you will have an authentic Irish experience, along with comfort, convenience and quality accommodation.

The Arches B&B in County Cavan

Below are just some of the must-see places located throughout Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands:

Leitrim – Carrick-on-Shannon River Cruise, water-sports
Cavan – Cavan Burren Park, Kayak Lough Oughter
Roscommon – Arigna Mines, Lough Key Forest Park
Longford – St Mel’s Cathedral, Royal Canal Greenway
Westmeath – Belvedere House and Gardens, Fore Abbey
Offaly – Clocnmacnoise Monastic Site, Slieve Bloom Mountains
East Galway – Portumna Castle and Gardens, Dunguaire Castle
East Clare – The Lough Derg Way
NW Tipperary – Rosscrea Castle, The Lough Derg Way
East Limerick – Lough Gur Visitor Centre, Terra Nova Gardens
North Cork – Doneraile Court and Wildlife Park