'Ireland's Hidden Heartlands' Is A Region With Scenic Camping, Charming Towns, And Shimmering Bodies Of Water

Discover a quieter side of the Emerald Isle in "Ireland's Hidden Heartlands." This area spans 12 counties in central Ireland, across serene countryside and far from the busiest tourist stops. From County Fermanagh in the north, the River Shannon spans the region to the border of County Cork in the south, with outdoor adventures, historic sites, and charming villages along the way. Towns like Athlone, Carrick-on-Shannon, and Enniskillen are convenient bases for exploring the area. Regional attractions include the Clonmacnoise Monastic Site in County Offaly, where visitors can explore remains of a sixth-century monastery, and the Royal Canal Greenway, an 80-mile walking and cycling route that connects several villages and offers ample wildlife viewing opportunities.  

The most practical international gateway is Dublin Airport (DUB), but its central location makes the heartlands area accessible from all sides. For destinations in the north, consider City of Derry Airport (LDY); Ireland West Airport Knock (NOC) for areas in the west, or Cork Airport (ORK) for exploring the southern part of the region. Renting a car is recommended, but for those who want to explore car-free, trains connect Dublin with destinations including Athlone and Carrick-on-Shannon, and regional buses connect additional towns. Accommodation ranges from riverside campsites and glamping to traditional bed and breakfasts, self-catering cottages, and country-house hotels, so book a few different stays for different experiences.

Ireland's heartlands have a temperate climate, and Rick Steves notes shoulder season as the best time to visit, which is from mid-April through May and late September through October. Pack rain gear, waterproof boots, and layers for changing weather. This region is perfect for travelers looking to connect with nature and discover the slower pace of the Irish countryside.

The towns and villages of central Ireland are part of the appeal here, with many pubs, restaurants, recreation, and historic landmarks to explore. Start in Athlone in County Westmeath for a lively riverside town with a long history. One main attraction is Athlone Castle, a historic landmark overlooking the River Shannon. Check the website before visiting, as at the time of writing the castle is closed until late 2026 for restoration work. Pull up a stool at the world's oldest pub, Sean's Bar, with a history dating back to 900; one Tripadvisor review sums up the experience as, "It is exactly what I'd hope an oldest bar would be. Lots of character, worth a stop!"

A unique way to explore the region is by renting a boat and cruising the Shannon-Erne Waterway. As Ireland's cruising capital, Carrick-on-Shannon has several marinas where visitors can hop on a cruise or rent their own boat. No special permit is required to rent a boat, and boat rental companies will go over rules and tips for safe boating before you head out on the water. It's possible to cruise the River Shannon in both directions, heading north toward Lough Key or south to villages like Rooskey and Tarmonbarry. Back on land, the Costello Memorial Chapel, the smallest chapel in Europe, is a notable attraction.

Nearby, the ruins of a 16th-century castle greet you at the harbor in Leitrim Village, which also offers several pubs and restaurants to refuel and nature trails to stretch your legs. The village is home to Beirnes of Battlebridge, a family-run caravan and camping park. Located right on the River Shannon, the year-round property has sites for tents and RVs, glamping pods and cabins, a wood-fired sauna with cold plunge tubs, and a traditional pub. There is also an on-site marina for easy access to the river.

Water dominates the landscape of Ireland's heartlands. Winding through the verdant countryside, the River Shannon connects lakes, canals, and riverside towns and offers visitors and locals a playground to explore through cruises, paddling, or walking the water's edge. Lough Key Forest and Activity Park in County Roscommon has a range of outdoor activities like walking and cycling trails, orienteering courses, and the park's tree-canopy walk for a bird's-eye view of the area. One Google Maps reviewer notes, "Fab location with excellent amenities. Great forest walks, lovely lake views and a decent coffee shop and restaurant."

Farther south, Lough Derg offers boating, kayaking, fishing, and lakeside walks. Stretching across the borders of Counties Clare, Galway, and Tipperary, with numerous places to eat and stay along the lake. Anglers can fish for brown trout, pike, perch, salmon, and other species. Explore the area on foot via the nearly 43-mile Lough Derg Way, a mix of riverside paths, old roadways, and current minor roads passing through scenic landscapes and many villages and towns along the path.

In Northern Ireland, Enniskillen is an ideal town for exploring the Fermanagh Lakelands, packed with lakes, rivers, and waterways. The town's location on an island between Upper and Lower Lough Erne offers easy access to getting on the water. Other attractions here include Enniskillen Castle and nearby Marble Arch Caves for experiences above and below ground. For more castle-meets-water adventures, head southwest to McDermott's Castle, which lies in the middle of Lough Key.