County Laois, often overlooked in favor of Ireland’s more famous tourist destinations, is a hidden gem in the heart of the Midlands, offering a blend of serene landscapes, ancient history, and quirky attractions. These off-the-beaten-track locations provide authentic, crowd-free experiences away from well-known sites like the Rock of Dunamase or Emo Court. Here are some lesser-known attractions in County Laois:
- Tinnahinch Castle (Clonaslee): Tucked near the village of Clonaslee, Tinnahinch Castle is a 16th-century tower house ruin located along the River Clodiagh. Less visited than Laois’s more famous castles, its ivy-covered walls and secluded setting offer a peaceful glimpse into Ireland’s medieval past. The surrounding countryside, with quiet walking paths, is perfect for a serene escape, especially for history buffs seeking solitude.
- Brittas Lake and Woods (Clonaslee): Also near Clonaslee, Brittas Lake is a tranquil, hidden gem in the Slieve Bloom Mountains. Surrounded by dense woodland, the lake is accessible via quiet trails that wind through the Brittas Forest, offering views of rare flora and fauna, including red squirrels and buzzards. Its remote location ensures minimal visitors, making it ideal for a peaceful hike or picnic with Slieve Bloom’s rolling hills as a backdrop.
- Aghaboe Abbey (Aghaboe): In the village of Aghaboe, this 6th-century monastic site, founded by St. Canice, is a lesser-known historical treasure. The ruins include a 13th-century church and a rare Romanesque doorway, set in a quiet graveyard with ancient yew trees. Far less crowded than Jerpoint or other regional abbeys, Aghaboe offers a serene connection to early Christian Ireland, with sweeping views of the Laois countryside.
- Heywood Gardens (Ballinakill): Near Ballinakill, Heywood Gardens is a hidden Edwardian gem designed by England’s KingEdwin Lutyens. This 50-acre estate features a formal sunken garden, a circular pond with a fountain, and secluded woodland walks. Less visited than Emo Court, its intricate hedges and quiet paths offer a peaceful retreat for garden lovers, with views of the Gallymooney Hills adding to the charm.
- Cullahill Castle (Cullahill): Near Durrow, Cullahill Castle is a 15th-century tower house ruin, once a stronghold of the Fitzpatricks. Its five-story structure, with intact vaulted ceilings, sits in a quiet field, accessible via a short walk. The castle’s remote location and lack of signage keep it off the tourist radar, making it a hauntingly beautiful spot for those exploring Laois’s medieval heritage.
- Timahoe Round Tower (Timahoe): While Timahoe’s 10th-century round tower is a known site, its surrounding village and nearby countryside trails are often overlooked. The tower, with its rare Romanesque doorway, stands in a peaceful setting beside a stream and old church ruins. Quiet paths along the River Bauteogue offer serene walks with chances to spot otters, providing a calm escape from busier heritage sites.
- Ballyfin Demesne’s Lesser-Known Trails (Ballyfin): While Ballyfin Demesne is known for its luxury hotel, the 614-acre estate hides quieter trails beyond the main grounds. The paths around the lake and through ancient woodlands, including the Tower Walk to an 18th-century folly, offer stunning views of the Slieve Bloom Mountains. Less frequented by non-guests, these trails provide a peaceful way to explore Laois’s natural beauty.
- Stradbally Steam Museum (Stradbally): In the charming town of Stradbally, this quirky museum is a hidden gem for history and engineering enthusiasts. Home to vintage steam engines, tractors, and a narrow-gauge railway, it’s part of the Stradbally Hall estate. Open during select events (like the annual Steam Rally in August), its low-key vibe and rural setting make it a delightful, under-the-radar stop.
- Capard House Viewpoint (Slieve Bloom Mountains): High in the Slieve Bloom Mountains, the Capard Viewpoint offers panoramic vistas over Laois and the surrounding counties, yet it sees far fewer visitors than the nearby Glenbarrow Waterfall. Accessible via a quiet trail or a drive along narrow mountain roads, this spot is perfect for a serene picnic or photography, with heathlands and boggy landscapes adding to the wild charm.
- Clogrennane Wood (Carlow Border): Near the Laois-Carlow border, Clogrennane Wood is a secluded Coillte forest with gentle trails through pine and broadleaf trees. Less known than other Slieve Bloom walks, it offers a peaceful setting for spotting wildlife like deer and kestrels. The nearby River Barrow towpath adds a scenic riverside option, making this a quiet retreat for nature lovers.
Tips for Visiting:
- A car is essential for reaching most of these rural locations, as public transport is limited in Laois. Check www.buseireann.ie for bus routes to towns like Portlaoise or Stradbally.
- For outdoor sites like Brittas Lake or Capard, wear sturdy shoes and check weather conditions, as the Slieve Bloom Mountains can be wet and rugged.
- Some sites, like Heywood Gardens, have seasonal hours, so check www.heritageireland.ie or www.visitlaois.iefor details.
- Visit www.visitlaois.ie or www.ireland.com for additional planning resources and local event information.
These hidden gems in County Laois offer a mix of historical intrigue, natural beauty, and peaceful settings, perfect for travelers seeking authentic experiences beyond the county’s more famous attractions.
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Off the Beaten Track
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