County Westmeath, in the heart of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, offers a wealth of adventure tourism experiences with its abundant lakes, rolling hills, and historic trails. From water sports to cycling greenways, the county provides a range of activities for families, thrill-seekers, and nature enthusiasts.
Lilliput Adventure Centre, located on the shores of Lough Ennell, is a hub for outdoor fun. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing, with equipment hire and guided tours available for all skill levels. The centre also offers archery and obstacle courses, ideal for group outings or family days out.
The Old Rail Trail Greenway, stretching 40km from Athlone to Mullingar, is a cyclist’s delight. The flat, off-road path follows a former railway line, passing bogs and farmland, with bike hire available in both towns. Walkers can also explore the trail, which offers scenic views and picnic spots.
Mullaghmeen Forest, Ireland’s largest planted beech forest, spans 1,000 acres in north Westmeath. Its network of waymarked trails caters to hikers of all abilities, winding through serene woodlands. The forest’s quiet paths are perfect for a peaceful walk or a gentle cycle.
For water-based adventures, Lough Owel and Lough Derravaragh offer prime angling spots for pike and trout. Boat hire is available near Multyfarnham, with fibreglass lake boats equipped with outboard engines and lifejackets. Guided fishing trips cater to both beginners and seasoned anglers.
Dún na Sí Amenity and Heritage Park near Moate provides a mix of adventure and culture. Families can explore the petting farm, where children feed animals like alpacas, while the heritage trail features reconstructed historical sites. The park’s wetland reserve offers birdwatching from a dedicated hide.
Baysports in Athlone, located on the River Shannon, is a go-to for thrill-seekers. The centre boasts Ireland’s largest inflatable waterpark, with slides and climbing walls, alongside kayaking and paddleboarding. Land-based activities include archery and team-building challenges.
Glendeer Pet Farm in Drum offers a family-friendly experience with animal interactions, tractor rides, and an indoor play area. The farm’s nature trail and obstacle course add an active element, making it a versatile spot for all ages.
The Hill of Uisneach, an ancient ceremonial site, offers guided walking tours through its monuments and landscapes. Visitors can explore the mythological centre of Ireland, with trails that blend history and gentle exercise.
Equestrian enthusiasts can ride through Westmeath’s countryside with centres like Mullingar Equestrian Centre. Trail rides and lessons cater to all levels, with scenic routes showcasing the county’s green fields. For a unique adventure, Viking Tours Ireland in Athlone provides river cruises on a replica Viking boat, exploring the Shannon’s history.
Westmeath’s mix of water, land, and heritage-based activities makes it an inviting destination for those eager to explore Ireland’s heartland.
Adventure tourism
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
County Westmeath:
Ireland’s county Westmeath offers a blend of lakes and historic charm, with Athlone Castle providing insights into medieval Ireland along the Shannon River. The Belvedere House and Gardens showcase Georgian elegance, while Lough Ree offers boating and fishing opportunities. Other attractions include the ancient Fore Abbey and its monastic ruins and traditional seven wonders. Westmeath is Ireland’s tenth smallest county by size (1,763 square km) and 11th smallest by population (96,221). Population peaked at 141,300 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 52,861 in 1961. In terms of hospitality, Westmeath is Ireland’s 22nd most visited tourist county with around 95,000 international visitors per year.
Introduction – Adventure – Anthem – Archaeology – Attractions – Awards – Birdwatching – Camping – Castles – Churches – Contact list – Cycling – Dining – Equestrian – Festivals – Fishing – Folklore – Gardens – Golf – Graveyards – Happening – Haunted – Highest – Hiking – History – Holy Wells – Hotels – Hotels top 8 – Hunting & shooting – Instagrammable – Itineraries – Largest town – Luxury – MICE – Movies – Music – Name – New – Novelists – Off the beaten track – Poets – Pubs – Quotes – Random Facts – Restaurant Awards – Sacred Places – Saints – Songs – Spas – Sports – Sunsets – Sustainable – Things to do – Towns – Video – Villages – Walking – Wanderlist – Weddings – Wild swimming – Writers – 1837 – 1846– 1852 – 1909 – 1955 – 1980 –
