Walking Holidays and Stays in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands

Rivers, Forests, and the Quiet Soul of the Midlands

Where time slows down and the land invites stillness.

Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands is a place to pause and take in the gentle rhythm of nature. Tucked between the more travelled coasts, it offers something quieter — leafy trails, mirrored waters, and under-the-radar beauty waiting to be explored on foot.

This is walking for those who seek immersion over intensity. The landscape is shaped by water and stillness — from the winding River Shannon to spring-fed lakes and tree-lined canals. Every step brings calm: birdsong, wildflowers, stone bridges, and soft skies that stretch for miles.

Where to Walk

Shannon Blueway

Follow riverside paths along Ireland’s longest river, linking small towns, woodlands, and heritage sites. The Blueway is a peaceful, slow-moving corridor ideal for reflective walking and quiet nature-watching.

Portumna Forest Park

Stroll through native woodland, glades, and wildflower meadows on the shores of Lough Derg. These easy, well-marked trails wind past castle ruins and deer habitats, offering a calm and varied forest experience.

Slieve Bloom Way

Explore one of Europe’s oldest mountain ranges on this long-distance upland route. The trail crosses open hills, forested ridges, and waterfalls — with expansive views across the Irish midlands and a deep sense of solitude.

Highlights

• Riverside trails along the River Shannon and its slow-flowing tributaries
• Forest walks in Portumna Park with lakes, glades, and local wildlife
• Upland routes through the Slieve Bloom Mountains — remote and restorative
• Off-the-beaten-path villages and heritage sites rich in local charm
• A deeply peaceful walking experience, made for presence over pace

Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands offers walking that restores. It’s not about distance or drama — it’s about breathing, noticing, and reconnecting with a quieter, older rhythm of place.