Ireland has a story to share across its scenic routes. From the limericks to the landscape, there is a lot to experience from the outskirts to the centre. The Lakelands of Ireland is an interesting new region of discovery for the discerning Indian traveller that travel agents need to highlight in their tour itineraries. By Reema Lokesh
A journey into the heart of Ireland in the Lakelands region transports you to a place that reflects tranquility. The drive from Dublin airport into the central part of Ireland passes through a green palate. The trip to the Lakelands region by its very nature cannot be done quickly. The region is best experienced on a slow pace, from a leisurely stroll at the magnificent Birr Castle to a serene leisurely cruise along Lough Derg on the Shannon, especially when you can captain your own cruiser. The region, does take you off the beaten track, allowing to discover some of the byways of Ireland, with plenty of hidden gems to be discovered. Failte Ireland representative, Antoinette Reilly and Guide Martin Kelly, gave an insight into the region that is yet to be discovered by the Indian discerning traveller. The taste of the region commenced with a splendid experience at the Birr Castle. It was heartwarming to meet the present era owners of the castle who spoke fondly of India and were keen to welcome guests from the country. The castle is a perfect place for some exclusive events, especially weddings. The gardens of Birr Castle and the newly revamped Science Centre showcase amazing feats of science and engineering as well as rare trees and flowers. The Parsons family invite you to explore one of the most extraordinary places in Ireland. Created over generations, it is an environmental and scientific time capsule. Birr Castle was a
hub of scientific discovery and innovation.
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From Birr Castle, it is pleasant to take a trip to Killaloe on the banks of Lough Derg. The Lakeside Hotel in Killaloe on the shores of Lough Derg is a pleasant boutique hotel, along the Shannon river. An evening Irish dinner at the riverside Goosers Bar & Restaurant is a pleasant experience. It serves a wide range of dishes with specials daily on the blackboard – soups with freshly baked brown bread, fresh fish, oysters, mussels, steaks, Irish stew and more.
The Shannon River journey
A trip on the Shannon River with the Silverline Cruiser is a must do. Depart Killaloe to take a leisurely cruise along the shores of Lough Derg. It passes through some interesting sites like the Co Clare via Holy Island which was once a monastic settlement founded by St Colum around 520AD. Do look out for the White Tailed Eagle on the way to Mount Shannon. Its considered to be a lucky sight. Visitors hire a cruiser and set sail on one of the finest waterways in Europe with Silver Line Cruisers, as the unspoilt River Shannon meanders through the beautiful Irish countryside, past historic towns offering the best in Irish hospitality. Silver Line, Ireland’s longest established family run Shannon cruising company, has been in the business for over 40 years. With the location advantage, which is right in the heart of Ireland on the River Shannon, the modern, luxurious fleet of two to 12 berth charter cruisers, offer the opportunity of a holiday experience that is truly unique. Silver Line Cruisers offer a wide variety of breaks, from three nights or longer mini-breaks to weekly, 10 -14 day hire or extended vacations from any day of the week. Captaining your own cruiser requires no licence in Ireland, and the company also provides with full training. It is amazing to captain your own cruiser, and the good part is there is absolutely no traffic.
From cruising to glamping
The region takes you to another interesting experience called Glamping, at the Pod Umna Village. A family operated and owned space, this place has some special experiences. If you haven’t experienced it yet, ‘Glamping’ is a great way to go camping. You stay in ‘Pods’, not tents. So there’s no canvas. There are no poles or tent pegs, no damp or draughts. Just all the fun of camping, without the hardship of camping. Whether you’re an experienced ‘Glamper’ or ‘Podder’ or you’re brand new to it, a visit to this place is special. The pods are set in a tree-lined village landscape. On-site facilities include toilets, hot showers, drying room, meeting rooms, play room and workshops. There’s a kitchen and dining room if guests want to self-cater. The proprietors also offer groups meals on-site as part of group packages or can recommend local restaurants and cafés if they would to dine out.
History and more
For those who are interested in some bitter stories of the Irish Workhouse, then the region also has a ventre in the town. The workhouse or “poor house” as it was known, was the most feared and hated institution ever established in the country. For history lovers there is more to offer in the region. Take an interactive guided tour of Athlone Castle – which was first built in the 13th century as a timber fort, the castle evolved into a bold, defensive building. If in Athlone, stay at the Radisson Blu Hotel. Moving on from Athlone, you can stop by at Clonamacnois. Take a guided tour of Clonamacnoise Monastic Site – this Early Christian site founded by St Ciarán in the mid-6th century on the eastern bank of the River Shannon includes the ruins of a cathedral, seven churches (10th -13th century), two round towers, three high crosses and the largest collection of Early Christian grave slabs in Western Europe.
From history to art
Once you move out of Clonmacnoise for nearby Ballinahown Craft Village in the heart of Ireland, this award-winning Eco-Craft village forges a unique platform for craft and design, while utilising the distinctive natural resources, environment and talents of the midlands. Stop by at the Celtic Roots Studio, and meet the owner Helen Conneely and try your hand at making your own piece of bog wood sculpture! Conneely is renowned for carving stunning sculptures and jewellery made from authentic Irish bog wood. Have lunch in Ballinahown Tea Rooms and savour the traditional ambience of the Tea Rooms. For some adventure, take a trip to the Lough Boora Sculpture Park and get on your bike and discover all that Lough Boora has to offer – take a guided tour of their red route and see bogland in its natural state and explore some of the park’s sculptures.
And finally for some soul searching check into the Wineport Lodge, some some stunning of both the sunset and sunrise.