Ireland's Hidden Heartlands

Nestled in the heart of the country is a haven of picturesque villages, stunning tracks, trails and waterways and brilliant bars and restaurants. Ireland's rural heartland, which stretches outwards from the banks of the Shannon bisecting the island into its various provinces and counties, has something for every visitor – it’s yours to uncover.

Ireland's Hidden Heartlands
Uncover unexplored tracks and trails, beguiling blueways, exciting waterside towns and picturesque rural villages Visit Ireland's Hidden Heartlands
Athlone
Journey to the heart of Ireland & connect with history & nature Visit Ireland's Hidden Heartlands
Carrick on Shannon
Enjoy life on the water & get active in nature Visit Ireland's Hidden Heartlands
Lough Derg
Immerse yourself in stunning views, monastic sites & peaceful walking trails Visit Ireland's Hidden Heartlands
Itineraries
Uncover the Blueways & Greenways of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands Visit Ireland's Hidden Heartlands
Things to Do
Get in to the relaxed rhythm & discover wonderful activities, culinary magic & ways to unwind Visit Ireland's Hidden Heartlands

From Europe’s largest green space to the longest defined coastal touring route in the world, Ireland is a country brimming with fun and fascinating ways to spend your days. Discover just the right mountain to climb, painting to pore over, sports team to cheer on, or whatever else takes your fancy. 

Things to do in Ireland

Cycling Holidays
Tour the countryside from atop two wheels for a true way to get off the beaten track. Find out more
Walking Holidays
Ireland’s hundreds of miles of walking trails make it the perfect country to explore on foot. Find out more
Family Holidays
Make memories to last a lifetime and delight young and old alike with fantastic family activities in Ireland. Find out more
Art Galleries
Find artistic inspiration and cultural illumination with a trip to one of the many world-class museums and galleries. Find out more
Horse Riding
See the sights from the saddle and discover why Ireland is known as ‘the land of the horse’. Find out more
Get out on the water
Surf, sail, or take a sunset cruise: the island of Ireland is overflowing with water-based adventures to enjoy. Find out more

Where to stay in Ireland

Sweet dreams await no matter how you like to lodge. From chic to boutique, budget to B&B, on the coast or in the heart of town, find an accommodation option to suit your individual travel style when you visit Ireland. 
Bed & Breakfast
Enjoy the personal touch at your home away from home with Fáilte Ireland-approved bed and breakfast accommodations. Find out more
Camping
Ghost stories, campfire coffee and sleeping under the stars. Explore the range of camping site options in Ireland. Find out more
Self catering
Choose from a cottage in the rugged west, a quaint townhouse in one of our cities, or a seaside holiday home along the coast line. Find out more
Guest houses
Experience the charms of a stay in a quality-assured Irish guest house with a trusted star rating. Find out more
Hostels
Hostels offer clean, comfortable accommodation at affordable prices, making them ideal for group outings or budget travel. Find out more
Hotels
From luxury accommodation with all the bells and whistles to reliable, contemporary business hotels, find your perfect stay. Find out more

From a jam-packed national concert calendar to breathtaking gallery exhibitions, world-class food and drink events, cultural celebrations and superb marathons and races in some of the most scenic locations in the world, there’s always something going on in Ireland. Discover the best of what’s on. 

What's on in Ireland

Festivals
Lose - or find - yourself at any one of dozens of festivals taking place around Ireland this year. See what's on
Heritage
Encounter the rich built and natural heritage that has shaped Ireland, yesterday and today, at an event, exhibit, or visitor experience. See what's on
Arts & Culture
Discover the unique creative spirit at the heart of Irish life with a visit to one of the country’s many arts events and spaces. See what's on
Sport and Outdoors
You haven’t truly experienced sport until you’ve been to an Irish rugby, football or GAA match. Feel the thrill. See what's on
Exhibitions
Find new inspirations and learn about the vibrant history of Ireland at an exhibition taking place this year. See what's on
Theatre
Get lost in the magic of the theatre at a comedy, mystery or dramatic production from local as well as international playwrights and casts. See what's on

Upcoming Events

Show All festivals & Events

01 Jan
–
31 Dec

Artist Residency Róisín de Buitléar
06 May
–
30 Dec

Nigel Mooney Sunday Jazz Session
06 Aug
–
31 May

Travellers' Journey
18 Aug
–
13 Jan

The Valiant Adventures of Tawara Toda
11 Sep
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07 Apr

The Enemy Within - The Spanish Flu in Ireland 1918-19
22 Sep
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22 Sep

New Music Dublin 2018 Defrosted: All Aboard Concorde
22 Sep
–
22 Sep

New Music Dublin 2018 Defrosted: Ergodos Secret Music Trail
22 Sep
–
22 Sep

New Music Dublin 2018 Defrosted: Garth Knox and Caoimhín Ó Raghallaigh

Visit Dublin Logo

 Visiting Dublin is like taking a great big breath of fresh air. Always invigorating, this Viking city is at once modern and historic, exciting and relaxing.

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Explore 9 counties along this unforgettable coastal touring route to enjoy breath-taking scenery and exceptional Atlantic experiences.

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From brave knights, castles and round towers, to tales of emigrants, monks and ancient civilisations, Ireland’s Ancient East is brimming with stories.

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Take a journey into the unknown and uncover the very heartbeat of Ireland. Ireland's Hidden Heartlands is a place where you can find your own rhythm.

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