Port Laoise

Day Trips

Start your journey with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in Port Laoise, savoring traditional Irish fare. Afterward, take a stroll through the town’s charming streets and visit the historic Dunamaise Arts Centre. Be sure to explore the nearby Portlaoise Heritage Centre to learn about the local history.

In the afternoon, indulge in some retail therapy at the local shops or head out to nearby Emo Court, a stunning neoclassical mansion set in beautiful gardens. Take a guided tour of the mansion to uncover its fascinating past and then enjoy a picnic in the picturesque parkland. Wrap up your visit to Emo by taking a leisurely walk along its scenic trails.

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a traditional Irish pub, where you can taste local specialties and perhaps enjoy some live music. After your meal, take a stroll through the town square, which is lively and welcoming in the evenings. End the night with a cozy drink at a local bar, soaking in the friendly atmosphere of Port Laoise.

Take a scenic drive to Kilkenny, where your first stop will be Kilkenny Castle, a magnificent 12th-century structure with beautiful gardens. Explore the castle’s history as you wander through its opulent rooms and grounds, immersing yourself in the captivating past. After touring the castle, grab a coffee at a nearby café to refuel for the day ahead.

Spend the afternoon meandering through the medieval streets of Kilkenny, pausing to visit the stunning St. Canice's Cathedral and its Round Tower for panoramic views of the city. Continue exploring the local artisan shops and galleries, where you can pick up unique souvenirs to take home. Savor a hearty lunch at a local eatery, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of this charming city.

In the evening, catch a live performance at one of Kilkenny's many venues, showcasing local talent and perhaps some traditional Irish music. After the show, dine at one of the city's acclaimed restaurants, sampling the best of local cuisine. Conclude your day with a stroll along the River Nore, admiring the peaceful waters illuminated by evening lights.

Head out early to the Slieve Bloom Mountains, where breathtaking landscapes await. Begin your day with a guided hike through lush trails that offer stunning views and opportunities to spot local wildlife. Bring along a packed breakfast to enjoy amidst the serene mountain backdrop.

After your hike, visit the scenic village of Kinnity, where you can explore the historic Kinnitty Castle, rich in folklore and history. Have lunch in a cozy café, followed by a tour of the castle to learn about its storied past and lavish renovations. Make sure to spend some time at the charming local shops that offer bespoke crafts and souvenirs.

Return to Port Laoise for an evening of relaxation. Enjoy some quiet time at a local spa or wellness center, allowing yourself to unwind after an active day. Opt for a quiet dinner at a fine dining restaurant, enjoying the delicious dishes made with local ingredients.

Take a train to Dublin and start your cultural exploration with a visit to Trinity College to see the iconic Book of Kells. Wander through the stunning campus and admire the Long Room in the Old Library, filled with ancient books and manuscripts. Enjoy a quick breakfast at one of the college's cafés before continuing your day.

Visit the National Museum of Ireland to delve into the rich history and cultural heritage of Ireland. After exploring the extensive exhibitions, stroll through St. Stephen's Green, a beautiful park perfect for a relaxing walk. Experience Dublin's vibrant street food scene for lunch, sampling various dishes from local vendors.

As the evening approaches, immerse yourself in Dublin's lively atmosphere by visiting the Temple Bar district. Enjoy a delightful dinner at a restaurant offering traditional Irish dishes, followed by a pint at a historic pub. End the night with a lively pub crawl, complete with traditional music and dance.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a day filled with adventure in the Irish Midlands. Visit the nearby Lough Boora Parklands, where you can cycle along scenic trails and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the area. Explore the unique sculptures and art installations scattered throughout the park, combining nature with creativity.

After your morning exploration, grab a light lunch at a rural café known for its locally sourced ingredients. Continue your adventure by visiting the quaint village of Clara, where you can explore the local heritage and traditional crafts. Don't miss the chance to visit the Clara Bog Nature Reserve for some bird watching and peaceful walks.

As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a rustic Irish farmhouse restaurant, known for its warm hospitality and delicious food. Take a leisurely evening stroll under the stars, soaking in the tranquil rural setting. If you’re lucky, you might stumble upon an outdoor event or gathering, experiencing the local community at its best.

Kick off your day with breakfast at a local bakery, sampling some freshly baked goods and strong Irish tea. Then, visit the Laois GeoPark to engage with exhibitions exploring the geological and cultural heritage of the region. Participate in a guided nature walk to immerse yourself in the local environment while learning about its significance.

After your morning at the GeoPark, head to a nearby artisan craft workshop where you can learn about traditional Irish crafts and perhaps even create your own piece. Enjoy a light lunch at a country café, savoring unique dishes that highlight Laois’s local produce. Don't forget to stop by local galleries showcasing the work of skilled artisans in the area.

End your day with dinner at a bistro that specializes in farm-to-table cuisine, highlighting the flavors of Laois. After dinner, enjoy a traditional storytelling session at a local venue, where you can learn more about Irish folklore and legends. This immersive experience will provide a perfect close to a day dedicated to culture and heritage.

Begin your day with a family breakfast at a cozy café, geared up for a full day of family fun. Head to the playground at the Portlaoise Leisure Centre, where kids can enjoy a variety of activities, from climbing walls to swimming pools. Parents can relax with a good book while the children have fun.

After a morning of play, grab lunch at a nearby family-friendly restaurant that offers a kid's menu. Spend your afternoon at the Portlaoise Heritage House, engaging in family-friendly exhibits and interactive displays that educate and entertain. The children will love the hands-on experiences that bring history to life.

As dusk falls, gather for a family dinner at a restaurant with options for both adults and kids. Enjoy some downtime by watching a family movie at one of the local cinema theaters. End the day with a sweet treat from an ice cream parlor, making it a fun and memorable family outing.

Start your day at the Portlaoise Golf Club, enjoying breakfast at the clubhouse overlooking the course. Spend your morning playing a few rounds of golf amidst the stunning landscapes that this course has to offer. The tranquil scenery and challenging holes make for an invigorating start to your day.

After your game, enjoy a leisurely lunch at the clubhouse, discussing your best shots with fellow golfers. Spend the afternoon relaxing at a nearby wellness center, indulging in a pampering treatment or a rejuvenating massage. Alternatively, enjoy a nice walk in the nearby parkland to unwind and connect with nature.

For dinner, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at an upscale restaurant in Portlaoise, celebrating the day’s successes with great food and drink. Spend your evening reflecting on the day at a cozy bar, perhaps playing a few games of pool or enjoying live sports on TV. Conclude your day with a peaceful stroll through the town, taking in the serene evening atmosphere.

Begin your day by visiting the local farmer's market, vibrant with colors and the aromas of fresh produce and baked goods. Grab breakfast from a stall, sampling seasonal fruits and artisan bread, while engaging with friendly vendors. Take your time wandering through the stalls, picking up some unique local products to take home.

After the market, return to your accommodation to relax before heading out for a cooking class that features traditional Irish cuisine. In the class, learn how to prepare local dishes and the history behind them, guided by a skilled chef. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch, savoring homemade dishes that reflect local flavors.

As the evening approaches, enjoy a dining experience at a popular local restaurant that specializes in modern Irish cuisine. Participate in a culinary event or tasting session, where you can sample a variety of dishes paired with wines from the region. Conclude the night with dessert at a charming café, reminiscing about the flavors and experiences of the day.