The castle is located truly in the heart of Ireland, with an hour and a half drive to Dublin. It is less than an hour's drive from Northern Ireland or the preeminent Irish heritage sites of Newgrange, Trim, the Hill of Tara or the River Shannon. There are plenty of things to keep the visitor for three or four engaging days touring in the area, enjoying many popular and preeminent sites in Ireland.
Wild Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Salmon, Pike, Perch, Bream, Roach and Eel are only some of the most prominent species of fish available to anglers in this area. The extensive waterways such as the River Shannon, River Inny, Gowna Lakes and Lough Sheelin provide many a fine opportunity for some coarse and game fishing. This is an angler's paradise blessed with a multitude of rivers and lakes. Guests to the Castle can pursue the native Brown Trout or go coarse fishing at their doorstep at Lough Sheelin. There are many other small inland lakes in the area, excellent for fishing. However, Lough Sheelin provides the most beautiful setting possible. Visitors can hire a boat.
Why not relax and listen to the rare corncrake on the water meadows of the Shannon near the monastic settlement of Clonmacnoise, or take a walk through the forests at adjacent Mullaghmeen. Visit one of the many local bogs and shore areas teeming with an abundance of bird life, or travel the country roads looking for Irelands avi-fauna.
The Shannon-Erne Waterway is the leading waterway in Ireland. Cruising on the River Shannon and the Grand Canal is an ideal way to experience the Irish countryside. The Castle is ideally located to serve as base for cruising-day trips on the area's waterways.
The scenery around the Shannon and the Loughs in the area is a beautiful accompaniment. The roads are not busy and amenity areas are a regular occurrence for all travelers. The Lough Sheelin Region has a particular attraction for the cyclist in light of the fact that the dedicated cycling route from Killala in Co. Mayo to Ballinamuck in Longford is now open.
Learning to fly or enjoying a fly-over of the area can be arranged through Oliver's VIP Concierge Team. The nearest airport is in Abbeyshrule.
Ireland is the home of Golf! Numerous excellent 18 hole parkland and link courses are situated in this region, providing a challenge to golfers of all levels with a multitude of championship courses to choose from. The nearest course is across the lake at Crover House.
Racing "the dogs" is an Irish tradition, a popular spectator sport where the thrill of the race ensures a thoroughly enjoyable night out. Greyhound Race tracks with frequent races are found in nearby Mullingar and Longord.
Co. Meath contains four horse racing tracks which hold numerous events during the year. Point to Point local meetings are very popular among local horse racing followers in the area. Horse racing at Kilbeggan is an action packed spectator sport and on racing nights the quiet midland town is transformed into a festival.
There are a couple of equestrian centres found in the vicinity offering riding and trekking over farmland, mountain and forest trails. This region offers a horse riding experience to suit both beginners and more experienced riders. The beautiful terrain of this region makes it a very suitable horse riding area. For pony trekking, cross country and showjumping, arrangements can be made at nearby Ross House. The Equestrian Centre will meet all your needs on the horse front. They offer pony trekking, riding lessons, cross country outings or showjumping. It is possible to stable horses there if required.
Lough Sheelin offers opportunities for sailing enthusiasts. Dromineer and Garrykennedy on the River Shannon are ideally suited for those who sail for fun or in competition. Sailing courses are available in some areas.
The Irish Midlands offer an abundance of hiking opportunities: Why not try the Boyne Way, Navan to Slane, or the walking trails around Loughcrew Hills. The Cavan Way offers excellent opportunities for the walker, as do the many unmarked trails and side roads. Mullaghmeen, an extensive forest park only a short distance from the Castle, is the most well known in this area. With its splendid beauty, it is a delight for all walkers and nature enthusiasts.
Some water sports can be carried out on Lough Sheelin in the summer. Opportunities also exist at other lakes in the area, some of which are specialized for certain activities such as sailing or canoeing.
Some more urban activities and entertainment such as bowling, carting, cinemas or pools can be found in the larger towns of Cavan, Longford, Navan or Mullingar, which are all within a 30 – 45 minute drive.
The Region
Welcome to the magical realm of County Meath, where our luxurious Oliver’s Travels property is strategically positioned to let you dive headfirst into the wonders of this amazing county. County Meath, nestled in the arms of the province of Leinster, is like a treasure chest bursting with history, sprinkled with charming towns and villages and bedazzled with a wonderful array of attractions and landmarks. It is the kind of place that makes you want to don a medieval cloak and embark on a quest!
Right at the beating heart of County Meath is the enchanting town of Trim. Trim Castle is a colossal Anglo-Norman castle, standing tall and proud, daring you to explore its secrets. Tales of knights and epic battles echo through its well-preserved walls, paying homage to the county's rich heritage. Just a stone's throw away is Trim Cathedral, a mystical place where intricate architecture whispers tales of the religious history that embraced the area.
The ancient wonder that is Newgrange is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prehistoric marvel that predates the pyramids of Egypt. Ireland's original architects flexed their knowledge of astronomy and engineering, putting on a show that attracts visitors from all corners of the globe, especially during the winter solstice when the inner chamber lights up like a cosmic disco. Nature and history dance hand in hand at the Hill of Tara, the ancient seat of the High Kings of Ireland. The panoramic views are like a grand feast for the eyes and the Lia Fáil, or Stone of Destiny, is the VIP guest that roars when touched by the true king. County Meath's natural beauty is a playground waiting to be explored. The Boyne Valley offers scenic walks and cycling routes and the Loughcrew Cairns, those ancient passage tombs, are a mystical backdrop for your hiking adventures. The Boyne Greenway is like a secret garden inviting cyclists to pedal through the lush countryside along the riverbanks.
Navan, with its lively atmosphere, invites you to a party of contemporary shops, traditional pubs and historical landmarks. Kells, famous for the Book of Kells, is like a time capsule to medieval times while the charming village of Slane is where the River Boyne adds a touch of romance to the fame of Slane Castle and its storybook surroundings.
County Meath is a destination that caters to every fancy. Whether you are on a quest for ancient sites, fancy a leisurely stroll through charming towns or just want to bask in the natural beauty of the countryside, you will be captivated by the richness and variety that this Irish gem has in store for you!
