Hidden Heartlands

The Counties of the Hidden Heartlands

From Leitrim to Tipperary, Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands encompass a region full of rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. Leitrim, Roscommon, Longford, East Clare, Westmeath, Cavan, North Tipperary, Galway, and Offaly are all nestled among this tranquil stretch of the midlands, boasting scores of unique cultural experiences native to each location.

The heartlands have featured prominently throughout Irish history. It was in South Leitrim where the Irish defeated the Normans in 1270 during the Battle of Áth-an-Chip. And in Roscommon, the home of Queen Medb and the site of a 12th century fine metal workshop.

Throughout the region, visitors travelling to Ireland for the first time will be stunned by the stories that fire the imagination.

The Beara-Breifne Way

A rich, storied historical tale unfolds along the Beara-Breifne way, Ireland’s longest marked walking trail. After his castle was sieged at Dunboy in 1602, the last great Chieftain of Ireland, Donal Cam O’Sullivan Beare, lead over 1,000 people from the Beara peninsula all the way up to County Leitrim to escape the dangers of Queen Elizabeth I’s forces. This epic 14-day journey saw the party travel from the most southwestern point of the island and directly through the Hidden Heartlands, a trail which is now dotted with relics and commemorations to the foundation from which Ireland rose.

Much of the land is privately held, but over 240 of the local owners have come together to grant public access to walkers and pilgrims eager to soak up the history and experience the mythology and culture unique to the region.

The Suck Valley Way is one of the more popular routes along the walk. Beginning and ending in Castlerea, Roscommon, the 100km circular route flows through sweeping valleys and tours the banks of the River Suck. While the majority of the scenic route passes along gentle farmlands, walkers have the opportunity to experience the “nine friendly villages” of Ballygar, Creggs, Glinsk, Ballymoe, Ballintubber, Castlecoote, Athleague, and Mount Talbot.

The pubs, restaurants, and visitor centres within each of these villages are welcoming to travelers and are always eager to provide refreshment, lodging, or just a friendly chat.

Your Hidden Heartlands Itinerary -
Carrick-on-Shannon

Although Ireland is a relatively small country, there are so many places to visit and things to do that it can be difficult to plan your holiday. Typically, the coastal regions attract the high volumes of tourism, and while there is good reason behind that, the vibrant centre of the country does not get the credit it deserves.

Between the two coasts lies the heartbeat of Ireland, the beautiful and storied Midland region known as the Hidden Heartlands. Within these counties, visitors are treated to stunning natural beauty, scores of outdoor activities, and a rich historical past that still comes alive within the scenery and residents.

If you’re looking to experience an authentic Irish holiday off the beaten path, consider visiting the heartlands town of Carrick-on-Shannon, where there’s so much to do and see for all tastes.

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