Discover hidden treasures in Ireland's heartland

Venture off the beaten track this Autumn and explore some of Ireland's lesser-known gems

Visit the magnificent woodlands of Lough Key Forest Park, where the variety of gardens, walks and trails will keep the entire family happy.

Everybody knows about our superb coastlines, our capital city, the well-known beauty spots, but not many think of the quiet roads and peaceful villages of central Ireland, where time really does seem to have stood still. If you’re looking for an autumn break away from it all, where taking things slowly is a way of life, and the old traditions still linger, then you can’t do better than head right up the middle of Ireland, leaving the crowded coasts to others and discovering some wonderful places that will be yours alone.

From Cork up through Tipperary, Offaly, Westmeath, Longford to Leitrim, there are a multitude of choices, depending on taste and inclination. Follow the course of the Shannon through Lough Derg, Lough Ree and Lough Allen, right to its source at the Shannon Pot in Co. Cavan. Explore the great Bog of Allen with its myriad wild flowers. Veer off to the left or right as fancy takes you, and discover somewhere new.