Ireland's Hidden Heartland
07 Days / 06 Nights
This tour begins in the midwest at Lough Derg, a monastic settlement since the 5th Century. Enjoy a beautiful lake cruise and overnight Killaloe. Then onward to Co. Galway where Portumna Castle and Demesne occupy a magnificent location on the shores of Lough Derg on the majestic River Shannon. After your tour, travel to Athlone, en route we take a small detour to Clara Bog Nature Reserve. From Athlone drive to Lough Ree and try your hand at kayaking or stand-up paddling! For the less adventurous of us, you could also take a Viking Tour departing from Athlone down to the Monastic Site of Clonmacnoise. After a day filled with adventure do not forget to visit Ireland's oldest pub, Sean's Bar for an evening filled with fun and live music. Venture to lovely Leitrim where we visit Strokestown Park House, Gardens & National Famine Museum. Conclude this journey to secret Ireland with a visit to St Mel's Cathedral Longford and depart Dublin.
The Itinerary
DAY 1 – DUBLIN OR SHANNON ARRIVAL
Upon arrival in Ireland, collection and travel to your first stop of the trip, Lough Derg. Over 90 heritage sites are accessible around Lough Derg as the lake has a long history of habitation and its shores have been settled since prehistoric times
Overnight: Killaloe area
DAY 2 – LOUGH DERG
Today you will travel along Lough Derg all the way up to its northern point. You will take in all the scenery of this hidden gem and learn about Brian Boru, High King of Ireland. Afterwards, slowly make your way to Portumna following the pace of the lake and taking regular breaks to spot wildlife or enjoy a cuppa by the lakeside
Overnight: Portumna area.
DAY 3 - ATHLONE
Before leaving for Athlone, enjoy a morning in Portumna and visit its castle. Portumna Castle and Demesne occupy a magnificent location on the shores of Lough Derg on the River Shannon. After your tour travel to Athlone. Before arriving we'll take a small detour to Clara Bog Nature Reserve, a 464 hectares raised bog and home to many protected wildlife species. You can walk its 1km boardwalk to try and spot some Birds of Prey.
Overnight: Athlone area
DAY 4 – THE MIDLANDS
From Athlone drive to Lough Ree and try your hand at kayaking or stand up paddling! For the less adventurous of us, you could also take a Viking Tour departing from Athlone down to the Monastic Site of Clonmacnoise. After a day filled with adventure do not forget to visit Ireland's oldest pub, Sean's Bar for an evening filled with fun and live music.
Overnight: Athlone area
DAY 5 – CARRICK ON SHANNON
Today depart the lovely town of Athlone to travel towards County Leitrim. On the way, do not miss a stop in Strokestown Park House, Gardens & National Famine Museum. Another choice for the day is a tour at Lough Ree Distillery where Slingshot Gin is produced. You can try your hand at concocting your own gin recipe at their Sling Shot Gin School or just make a quick stop to pick up some local spirits to bring home.
Overnight: Leitrim area
DAY 6 – DUBLIN
Your adventure in the wonderful Hidden Heartland is coming to an end today as you drive back to Dublin for your last night. Take a break on the way in Longford to visit its beautiful St Mel's Cathedral home to two magnificent 19th century Harry Clarke Studios stained glass windows with their vivid, jewel-like colours. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Dublin City Centre to soak in the atmosphere of the capital.
Overnight: Dublin area
DAY 7 – DEPARTURE
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight back home.