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From walkways to waterfalls, there is so much to see and do in this adventure-rich region.
Whether it’s a hike or a bike-ride, adventures are more fun when the whole family gets involved. Sure, wellies may get muddy, but that’s a small cost to pay for fun-filled days, new family memories and lots of laughs.
This year, we’re on a mission to explore the very best of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands – and we’re determined to get off-the-beaten track.
To add a distinctly adventurous flavour to your next getaway, check out these 10 activities and experiences in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.
Embrace Ireland’s pagan history in Westmeath
Delve into Ireland’s mythology during a hike of the majestic Hill of Uisneach. This site is widely regarded as one of the most sacred spots in the country, and it makes for a fascinating and invigorating family walk. The summit offers impressive, panoramic views, making the ascent feel even more rewarding.
Once you descend, make the trip to Mullingar’s Wholesome Kitchen and feast on their family-friendly lunch options.
Go mountain-biking in Offaly
For a thrilling off-road family adventure, rent bikes from the Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Centre and prepare for an unforgettable afternoon. Once you have found the perfect bike (MX Junior bikes are available for younger cyclists!) pop a helmet on and follow your experienced guide on a tour across the mountainside.
Once your little ones have had their fill of adventure, fill up on some well-deserved pizza at Giltraps in Kinnitty.
Go rambling in Clare
The secret to an excellent family walk is variety, and Clare Walks Ltd along the East Clare Way has variety in buckets. Pick a section of this route to explore and expect woodland scenery, river valleys and plenty of charming villages along the way.
All that walking calls for a treat, so indulge your sweet tooth on your next getaway with a hot chocolate or a coffee at Wilde Irish Chocolates.
Discover a waterfall in Leitrim
No visit to the tranquil Glencar Lake would be complete without taking a moment to appreciate the striking Glencar Waterfall. This 15m high waterfall was once a source of inspiration for W. B. Yeats, and today it’s an impressive sight for visitors of all ages.
Conveniently, the site also has a tearoom, a picnic area and a playground for your little ones to let loose in.
Walk in our ancestors’ footprints in Roscommon
History and adventure collide on the National Famine Way, a 165km marked walking and cycling trail. The route stretches all the way from Roscommon to Dublin, but even if you explore a small section of it, your family will come away with a deeper understanding of the Great Hunger. In addition to the historical side, this trail is packed with natural beauty, so take it all in as you stroll.
During your Roscommon getaway, book a family dinner at The Silver Eel, which boasts a varied children’s menu.
See the bogs of Offaly
On your next short break, pack your wellies and your binoculars, because you’ll need them during an outing at the Clara Bog Visitor Centre. Enjoy a family ramble along the boardwalk and see how many unique creatures you can spot. After all, this bog is home to newts, frogs, dragonflies and birds of prey.
Afterwards, tuck into a family lunch at Beans & Leaves in Athlone.
Stroll along the canal banks of Longford
Pop on your walking shoes and grab your gang for a relaxed hike along the Royal Canal Greenway from Longford to Keenagh. This route takes 3 hours to walk, or 45 minutes to cycle, and there is plenty to see and do along the way. Check out the Colrea Trackway, which dates back to 148BC or enjoy a moment of calm at the picturesque Richmond Harbour.
After your hike or cycle, satisfy your appetite at the family-friendly Macs Shack.
Hike the in Leitrim countryside
The Leitrim Way may boast 56km of walking trails, but don’t be discouraged – there are plenty of shorter routes along the way that are perfect for families. Take the Aghacashel Loop for example, which is a handy 3km long. For a more challenging walk, check out the 7km journey from Leitrim Village to Drumshanbo.
For a family meal in the region, make a reservation at the Bush Hotel Bistro in the nearby town of Carrick-on-Shannon.
Explore one of Galway’s most beautiful gardens
On your next family getaway in Galway, add an afternoon in Woodville House and Walled Garden to your itinerary. With a huge variety of trees and plants – and an enviable location at the bottom of the Slieve Aughty – this garden is the perfect spot to get lost in.
For nearby toasties, check out Slow Roast Sandwiches & Coffee.
Visit a donkey sanctuary in Cork
Delight your family on your next short break in Cork with a visit to the Donkey Sanctuary, a charity that is dedicated to improving the welfare of donkeys and mules. Stroll along the walkways of this open farm and meet some of the 130 animals that call this open farm home.
Top tip – pack a picnic and enjoy it in the sanctuary’s dedicated picnic area while taking in a healthy dose of country air.
So, what are you waiting for? An abundance of unique experiences are waiting for you in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.
Start planning your next short break at DiscoverIreland.ie
Love this place, leave no trace.
The Leave No Trace principles help us make as little an impact as possible on the incredible Irish landscape as we explore the outdoors. Keep outdoor areas safe, clean and free from waste/hazards, and help protect the natural environment. Love this place, leave no trace.
