Getting Oriented
Perfect for the relaxed visitor who values the subtle over the spectacular, the flat, fertile plain at the center of Ireland is full of relatively undiscovered historic towns, abbey ruins, and grand houses.
- Abbeyleix. An elegant tree-lined town with original shop fronts and Georgian stone buildings.
- Portlaoise. The busy county town of Laois with historic architecture stands at a crossroads linking major cities.
- Portarlington. A delightful riverside town set amid rich agricultural hinterland.
- Tullamore. A vibrant place and county town of Offaly, noted for its whiskey making.
- Kilbeggan. A small town founded on a 6th-century monastery and the home of a major whiskey distiller.
- Mullingar. One of the biggest towns in Westmeath, pleasantly sited on the Grand Canal and famed for its cattle trade.
- Castlepollard. A village laid out around a triangular green and renowned for its colorful shop fronts.
- Fore. Lying in a valley between two hills, the village is an example of an early Christian settlement.
- Cavan. The county town, which boasts some fine sandstone buildings, is an ideal base for exploring the lakelands.
- Longford Town. A market town known for its literary associations and its historic cathedral restored after being destroyed by fire.
- Anthony Trollope Trail. A trail with 27 locations celebrating the English author who introduced pillar boxes to Ireland.
- Athlone. A thriving town on the River Shannon, its imposing castle is a major attraction.
- Clonmacnoise. One of Ireland's most important ecclesiastical sites set in an atmospheric landscape.
- Banagher. A small crossroads town on the river with a busy marina.
- Birr. An outstanding heritage town dating from the 6th century where exquisite Georgian buildings are the main feature.
- Roscrea. The past is all around you in this Tipperary town of ancient castles, towers, and churches.
