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Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands Itinerary

Overview

 

Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands is where life moves at its own pace. With charming riverside towns and magical forests, Ireland’s hidden heartlands is a road trip surrounded by beautiful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere.

The Irish counties of Cavan, Leitrim, Roscommon, Westmeath, Offaly, Clare, and Tipperary are nestled within Ireland’s hidden heartlands. From the wonderful waterways to the captivating treks and trails, Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands creates the perfect road trip filled with rich history and unspoiled beauty.

Drive around Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands with this 9-day itinerary and experience a motorhome holiday like no other.

Duration

9

Days

Distance

471

Miles

Start/end - nearest depot

DublinDublin

Map Route

  • 1

    Dublin

    Bunk Campers Depot Dublin- Cavan

    Distance: 70 miles

    Duration: Approx. 1 hr 23 min

  • 2

    Leitrim

    Cavan- Leitrim

    Distance: 46 miles

    Duration: Approx. 1 hr 12 minutes

  • 3

    Roscommon & Longford

    Leitrim – Roscommon & Longford

    Distance: 40 miles

    Duration: Approx. 1 hr 4 min

  • 5

    Westmeath

    Roscommon & Longford- Westmeath

    Distance: 34 miles

    Duration: Approx. 46 min

  • 6

    Offaly

    Westmeath- Offaly

    Distance: 28 miles

    Duration: Approx. 46 min

  • 7

    Clare

    Offaly- Clare

    Distance: 83 miles

    Duration: Approx. 1 hr 30 min

  • 8

    Tipperary

    Clare – Tipperary

    Distance: 53 miles

    Duration: Approx. 1 hr 6 min

  • 9

    Dublin

    Tipperary – Dublin

    Distance: 117 miles

    Duration: Approx. 2 hr 11 min

Trip Details

Day 1. Dublin - Cavan

After collecting your chosen motorhome from the Bunk Campers Dublin depot, spend the afternoon exploring the magical city of Dublin.

Dublin is an exciting city filled with history, mystery, and adventure. You might want to visit some of Dublin’s highlights including Dublin Castle, the Guinness Storehouse, The Book of Kells and Trinity Library. 

After exploring Dublin, make your way towards Cavan, the first county stop on your Hidden Heartlands driving holiday. Cavan is often referred to as the “Land of Lakes” with 365 lakes to explore.

Cavan is home to gorgeous towns including Belturbet, Cootehill, Virginia and Kingscourt, that you can explore at your own leisure.

The top must-see destinations to explore in Cavan include Cavan Burren Park, Cavan County Museum and The Cavan Way. 

Spend the night at a campsite of your choice. You might choose to spend the evening at Erne View Camper Van & Caravan  listed below.

  • Bunk Campers Motorhome Parked at a Campsite
    Erne View Camper Van & Caravan Park

    Erne View Camper Van & Caravan Park is a local family-run campsite located on the banks of the River Erne.

    The campsite has stunning views of River Erne. Belturbet town is located close to the campsite and offers lively bars, restaurants and scenic walks.

    Learn more

  • That's good to know...

    With gorgeous scenery, rich history, and peaceful lakes, after a day spent in Cavan you will understand why the county is a popular destination. Cavan Burren Park is filled with megalithic tombs and its Visitor Centre will teach you about the history of the park.

  • Also in that area...

    The county town of Cavan lies near the border of Fermanagh in Northern Ireland. You might want to take the short drive to Fermanagh and experience the life and culture in a Northern Irish county.  The Marble Arch Caves in Fermanagh, a major tourist attraction, is located at the foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain. The Caves is a series of natural limestones under the Cladagh River.

Exploring Cavan

Activites & Things To Do

Day 2 - 4. Leitrim

Take a short drive towards county Leitrim. With stunning landscapes, rugged mountains and a relaxing pace of life, Leitrim will make you stop, unwind and adore the beauty of Ireland’s green rolling hills.

Leitrim has one of the shortest coastlines in Ireland, making it small yet uniquely beautiful. Enjoy beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean either from the comfort of your Bunk Camper or by exploring on foot.

Explore the River Shannon and discover the gorgeous waterfalls of Fowley’s Falls, Glencar and Pól an Eas.

Experience traditional Irish shops, restaurants and cafes in the county town of Carrick on Shannon. 

If you’re seeking a mountain climb adventure then you might want to try Hag’s Leap and Sliabh an Iarainn. Hag’s Leap is located in the beautiful Dartry Mountains. As one of the most iconic landmarks in Leitrim, you might want to tick this one off your travel list and experience its wonderful free-standing natural rock tower.  Sliabh an Iarainn Mountain rises 585 metres above sea level and is known for its rugged mountain landscape. Choose the mountain walk you would like to visit, and explore both if you have the time.

Stay at a campsite of your choice. You can stay at Battlebridge Caravan and Camping Park which is listed below.

  • Bunk Campers Motorhome Parked at a Campsite
    Battlebridge Caravan and Camping Park

    Battlebridge Caravan and Camping Park is located in the perfect location. On the banks of the River Shannon and within a close distance to Leitrim Village, this campsite has everything you need.

    Facilities include a slipway for boating, a children’s playground, showers & toilets, an on-site pub, and live music sessions.

    Learn more.

  • That's good to know...

    Sliabh an Iarainn Mountain is stepped in Irish history and mythology. Irish legend tells the story of Gods with supernatural powers, that landed on the mountain bringing wisdom and skills. If you visit the mountain, you might just experience the magical quality that many walkers report when they visit the magical views of the midlands of Ireland.

  • Also in that area...

    You might want to visit the town of Drumshanboa. Get ready to experience traditional Irish music, as this town is the heart of traditional Irish music. The town also has brilliant walking trails surrounded by gorgeous scenery.

Lovely Leitrim

Activites & Things To Do

Day 5 - 6. Roscommon & Longford

On day 5, your journey towards county Roscommon will begin. On the way to Roscommon, take a short detour to one of Ireland’s most famous lakes, Lough Key.

Whether you are looking for a chilled-out afternoon or a thrilling adventure, Lough Key has activities to suit everyone. From kayaking to boat trips, and swimming and fishing you can choose the activity that suits you best. You can view the full list of activities at Lough Key Forest and Activity Park here.

After Lough Key, make your way towards Roscommon town. Roscommon is filled with nature-inspired outdoor activities.

On your arrival to Roscommon, you might want to explore Roscommon castle and it’s stunning wildlife conservation area at Loughnaneane Park.

Spend the next two nights at Gailey Bay. The Caravan & Camping Park at Gailey Bay is the perfect nights rest. Enjoy a home-cooked meal in your motorhome, followed by an evening of relaxation.

The next day, take a short drive to County Longford and explore all its natural beauty. You might want to visit Corlea Trackway. Stepped in history, the story of Corlea Trackway dates back to as early as 148 B.C.

Head back to your campsite at Gailey Bay. 

  • Bunk Campers Motorhome Parked at a Campsite
    Gailey Bay Caravan & Camping Park

    Gailey Bay Caravan & Camping Park is the perfect place for a peaceful night rest. The family-run business is located on the shores of Lough Ree, a lake in the midlands of Ireland, making it a beautiful and idyllic place for an overnight rest.

    The camping park has many outdoor pursuits including watersports, fishing, sailing, cycling and hunting.

    Facilities at the campsite include a TV lounge, pool room, kitchen and children’s play area. Also, shower facilities, ice pack freezer, electric points and more.

    Learn more. 

  • That's good to know...

    The drive from the Bunk Campers Dublin depot is filled with gorgeous surroundings. Roscommon is situated roughly in the centre of Ireland. It’s mythical history makes it a key destination on any Ireland road trip.

    Roscommon is filled with ruins, castles, lakes, forests and Ireland’s largest floating waterpark. It is also locally known as the birthplace of Halloween.

  • You can also visit...

    You might also want to visit Boyle Abbey ruins located in the town of Boyle, Roscommon. The ruins are a well-preserved cistercian abbe, dating back to the 12th century, they provide an insight into Ireland’s history.

     

Tranquil Loughs & Castles

Activites & Things To Do

Day 7 - 8. Westmeath

On day 7, head towards county Westmeath. Filled with gorgeous lakes and folklore stories, Westmeath has lots of entertainment for the whole family.

Visit Tullynally Castle & Gardens which was once home to the Pakenham family for over 350 years. You can pre-book a guided tour of this manor house and enjoy walks through it’s beautiful gardens.

Take a short drive towards the town of Athlone, which is geographically the centre of Ireland. Enjoy a guided walking tour through Old Athlone and stop at Sean’s Bar, one of the oldest pubs in Europe! With a title that significant, you might regret not stopping for a pint of Guinness or drink of choice.

Athlone is a compact town filled with old streets, shops and restaurants.

Located close by, you will find Lough Ree East. This is a fantastic campsite, within walking distance of the restaurants and activities in Athlone.

 

  • Bunk Campers Motorhome Parked at a Campsite
    Lough Ree East

    The beautiful Lough Ree campsite is set on 5 acres of countryside at the shore of Lough Ree East. The family-run park also has its own jetty and boat-slip.

    The campsite has a toilet & shower facilities and a disabled toilet. Electric hook ups are available across the site, along with free Wi-Fi and other features.

    Learn more. 

  • That's good to know...

    Athlone has an abundance of things to do including Athlone Castle Visitor Centre, Baysports and the Shannon Banks Nature Trial Walk.

    You might want to visit the small village of Ballykeeran. Ballykeeran has a long walk along a woodland with scenic views, making it the perfect afternoon activity.

     

  • You can also visit...

    Close by you will find Kilbeggan distillery experience. At Ireland’s oldest distillery, you will learn how Irish whiskey has been made over the decades.

    Alternatively, you might want to head towards Castlepollard, and enjoy a walk around Tullynally Castle. The Gothic castle has a long history waiting to be discovered by adventure-seekers just like you.

Explore Ireland's towns

Activites & Things To Do

Day 9-10. Offaly

Enjoy a slow paced morning before heading towards Offlay to discover Clara Bog Nature Reserve & Visitor Centre. Say hello to all the protected nature and wildlife that have made the reserve their home.

The nearby Slieve Bloom Mountains offer an alternative way to view the local wildlife. Depending on your preference, you can climb the mountain either by mountain biking or hiking, or sit at the bottom with your camping furniture and enjoy the view.

After returning to your own home on wheels, you might want to ditch the muddy mountain boots and put on a comfy pair of trainers, sandals or even slippers for ultimate comfort and relaxation.

Cook up a storm in your motorhome kitchen and enjoy it in the kitchen area of your motorhome, or sit outside with your camping furniture and enjoy dining outdoors.

Spend the night at a campsite of your choice. You might want to stay at Streamstown Caravan & Camping Park listed below.

  • Bunk Campers Motorhome Parked at a Campsite
    Streamstown Caravan & Camping Park

    Situated on a dairy farm, Streamstown Caravan & Camping Park has beautiful landscapes, making it a perfect campsite destinations.

    Facilities include free hot showers, TV and pool table, electricity points, spacious disabled facilities , ironing, washing machine and and more.

    Learn more

  • That's good to know...

    County Offaly is known for it’s extensive bog and peatlands. When you are in the area of Offaly, you might want to visit Birr Castle. The fortress dates back to 1170, and as you can imagine, has a wealth of history.

    The nearby Slieve Bloom Mountains offer an alternative way to view the local wildlife. Depending on your preference, you can climb the mountain either by mountain biking or hiking, or sit at the bottom with your camping furniture and enjoy the view.

  • You can also visit...

    Other areas to visit Offaly include Tullamore, Birr, Edenderry and Shannonbridge.

     

Outdoor Fun & Home Cooked Meals

Activites & Things To Do

Day 11-12. East Clare

On day 11 begin your drive towards County Clare.

Whilst in the area, must sure to see these top destinations.

Take a short trip to the Cliffs of Moher, a must-see destination. Looming 700 feet above the unspoiled coastline, the beautiful cliffs are as pretty as a postcard.

Closely located is Lahinch Beach, often known as lays Surfers Paradise. Lahinch is a sandy beach facing the Atlantic Ocean and is one of the most popular surfing beaches in Ireland. Here you can surf, seakayak and kite surf. Enjoy the beautiful waves and sandy beaches for the whole day and straight into the evening.

Some must-see destinations in Clare include The Burren, The Burren Food Trail, and The Doolin Caves.

If you are a fan of golfing, you can enjoy golf with a view at Doonbeg Golf Club. 

Stay at a campsite of your choice. You might want to stay at Nagles Doolin Caravan & Camping Park listed below.

  • Bunk Campers Motorhome Parked at a Campsite
    Nagles Doolin Caravan & Camping Park

    Nagles Doolin Caravan & Camping Park is situated near the Atlantic between the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren.

    The campsite is near Doolin Pier, so you can easily take the ferry to Aran Islands and enjoy island life for the day.

    Facilities include a new-built playground, over 30 showers, laundry facilities, a grocery store and more.

    Learn more.

  • That's good to know...

    Roscrea is one of the oldest towns in Ireland. Explore the heritage of Roscrea and take in centuries of architecture and stories.

    The Cliffs of Moher are a site of ancient Irish legends, and a must see on your motorhome holiday. The Cliffs of Moher also featured in movies such as Harry Potter, Ryan’s Daughter and Leap Year.

  • You can also visit...

    Around Roscrea, you might like to visit Leap Castle and Mount St. Joseph’s Abbey. In Clare, you might want to visit Doolin Cave, Loophead Lighthouse, and Fanore Beach.

Two days of Paradise

Activites & Things To Do

Day 13. Tipperary

Heads towards Tipperary and enjoy a county filled with history and must-see destinations including the Rock of Cashel and Cahir Castle.

The Brú Ború Cultural Centre has everything to learn more about Tipperary’s rich history and the wider cultural history of Ireland.

For spectacular views head to the Devil’s Bit Loop. At 478m high you will able to see the eight surrounding countries on a clear day.

Dine out and enjoy some traditional, and delicious, Irish foods.

Spend the night at a campsite of your choice. You might want to stay at Steamstown Caravan & Camping Park listed below.

  • Bunk Campers Motorhome Parked at a Campsite
    Streamstown Caravan & Camping Park. 

    Situated on a dairy farm, Streamstown Caravan & Camping Park has beautiful landscapes, making it a perfect campsite destination.

    Facilities include free hot showers, TV and pool table, electricity points, spacious disabled facilities, ironing, washing machine and more.

    Learn more

     

     

  • That's good to know...

    The Roch of Cashel is over 1,000 years old and rises 200 feet into the air.

    The Devils Bit Loop is a 5km hill walk, and the perfect activity for some moderate exercise.

  • You can also visit..

    Tipperary has so much to do from the beautiful Swiss Cottage, to Fota Wildlife Park and Leep Castle, give this beautiful part of the world everything you can.

Culture & History

Activites & Things To Do

Day 14. Dublin

It’s the final days of your road trip around Ireland’s hidden heartlands. Start your drive back to the Dublin depot.

The route back to Dublin passes through unique towns and villages. Stop off along the way at towns that peak your interest.  You might want to visit Cloneen. 

In Dublin, you might want to pay a visit to Croke Park, a famous Caelic games stadium.

On your way back, why not stay at Lough Ree East Campsite again. Alternatively, if you want to experience a different Ireland campsite why not try Camac Valley Tourist Caravan and Camping Site. If you want to end your motorhome holiday here, then head straight back to the Bunk Campers Dublin depot.

Our Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands itinerary ends here. If you wish to continue your journey you could join the Wild Atlantic Way route travelling from Cork to Limerick and Galway.

 

  • Bunk Campers Motorhome Parked at a Campsite
    Lough Ree East Campsite

    The beautiful Lough Ree campsite is set on 5 acres of countryside on the shore of Lough Ree East, located in the village of Ballykeeran. The family-run park has its own jetty and boat-slip.

    The campsite has a toilet & shower facilities and a disabled toilet. Electric hook ups are available across the site, along with free Wi-Fi and other features.

    Learn more. 

  • Camac Valley Tourist Caravan and Camping Site

    Camac Valley Tourist Caravan and Camping Site provides miles of tarmacked and grassed walls.
    Facilities include a shower/ toilet area, laundry room, and more.

  • Before Your Return Your Motorhome

    Make sure you take all your personal belongings with you at the end of your holiday. Please ensure that you return your Bunk Camper with the same level of fuel as when you collected it.

A slow journey home

Activites & Things To Do

Explore More Of What Ireland Has To Offer

Choose an alternative itinerary

Motorhome Planning ToolKit

Know before you go...

Pet Friendly Holiday

Bring your furry friend along for the holiday. You can take up to two pets on your Bunk Campers motorhome, and trust us, they will love it!

LEARN MORE. 

Vehicle pick up

What's included with my rental?

For your comfort and convenience, your rental comes with a kitchen kit, unlimited mileage & more.

FIND OUT MORE.

Responsible Motorhoming

Your holiday is all about freedom and fun but, it’s also important to recongise the importance of responsible motorhoming.

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Holiday Checklist

Holiday Checklist

To help you get on the road, we’ve created the ultimate holiday checklist. We supply the basics and offer optional extras, but there’s a few times you should remember to pack.

LEARN MORE.