Explore the area
Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands - Yours to Uncover
A short journey from home, that’s a world away all the same, it’s time to slow right down to the flowing waters’ soothing pace of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. Stretching across nine counties, the rich, rural landscapes of this captivating part of Ireland are equal parts rugged and beautiful – and are absolutely flourishing with wildlife.
The Midlands of Ireland, supported by the EU Just Transition Fund and Fáilte Ireland, is a territory dedicated to promoting regenerative tourism, helping local communities affected by the shift to a climate-neutral economy. This area is thriving with sustainable tourism development, thanks to numerous innovative initiatives and tourism projects. Visitors will enjoy the benefits of a diversified regional economy, the preservation of stunning natural habitats and biodiversity, and local communities offering a unique and enriching experience for all who visit.
Activities/Attractions
Cullohill Healthy Way Loop – Mountain Walk
Start Location: Beside Castleview Open Farm
Explore this 4.7-mile (7.5 km) looped trail near Cullahill, County Laois. This moderately challenging route takes approximately 2 hours and 6 minutes to complete. Ideal for birdwatching, hiking, and running, it offers a peaceful experience with few other visitors.
The trail follows field paths, woodland tracks, lanes, and minor roads through low hills above Cullahill, providing stunning views of rural County Laois and the surrounding mountains. Along the way, you’ll pass historic sites such as:
- Cullahill Castle – a medieval stronghold
- A lime kiln
- Cummer Well
- A rath (ancient fort)
Cullohill Castle
Located at the entrance to Castleview Open Farm, Cullohill Castle was built around 1425, likely by Finghin MacGillapatrick.
- Attacked multiple times by the “sovereign and citizens of Kilkenny” under orders from King Henry VI, with recorded attacks in 1441 and 1517.
- Partially destroyed by Cromwell’s forces around 1650, likely by cannon fire from a nearby hill.
- Recorded as “ruinous and uninhabited” in 1657.
- A small chapel, just a few hundred metres away, once served as the private chapel of the MacGillapatricks.
Nearby Walks & Nature Spots
Dunmore Woodland Walk (Durrow) – 5-minute drive
A scenic mixed woodland featuring broadleaf and coniferous trees with two rivers, the Gully and Nore, flowing through the area.
- Stunning bluebell displays in spring.
- Remains of old house cellars from a historical estate.
- Waymarked trail starting at the Dunmore Wood car park, just outside Durrow.
- Trail Details: 10 km, 2 hours, moderate difficulty
Grantstown Lake – 10-minute drive
Located between Rathdowney and Ballacolla, Grantstown Lake offers three waymarked walking trails ranging from 45 minutes to 2 hours.
- A historic area, once part of the Castletown Estate, the ancestral home of the Fitzpatricks of Upper Ossory.
- A 24-acre spring-fed lake, reaching depths of up to 12 metres.
- Popular with fishermen and nature enthusiasts.
Where to stay
Castle Arms Hotel
The family run Castle Arms Hotel, in the beautiful Georgian village square of Durrow County Laois, is a haven for the discerning guest who will appreciate its relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Castle Durrow Country House Hotel
Castle Durrow Country House Hotel located in County Laois. Lovingly restored by Peter and Shelly Stokes this manor house and restaurant sits on 30 acres of gardens and parkland.
