The country of Ireland is not only divided into the east, west, north, and south. There is an entire stretch of the county sitting right between all of them, a gorgeous and often neglected area called the Midlands.
It is in the Midlands where you will find the small Laois County that boasts of a panoramic countryside and Ireland’s rich cultural heritage that is just waiting for you to explore.
Best Time to Visit Laois
Laois is not that different from other parts of Ireland in the sense that it has a temperate and mild climate. Even though the area gets rainy, you can always visit here no matter what time of the year it might be. Just make sure that you check the weather forecast first before embarking on your trip and make sure to pack accordingly. A rain jacket and water-resistant shoes are always great items to have with you.
How to Get to Laois
You can easily access Laois by car, bus, or train. Dublin Airport also welcomes those who fly to the county as it is only within a short driving distance. If you are not a fan of car rentals, Aircoach has buses running to and from Dublin Airport and Portlaoise.
Quick Facts about Laois
Abbeyleix, Portlaoise, Portarlington, Rathdowney, and Mountrath are the towns of Laois. Just so you know, the name of the town is pronounced as “Leesh,” which is an easy one by the Irish standards. Laois used to be called Queen’s County as a way of respecting Bloody Mary.
Laois’ Top Tourist Attractions
To ensure that you will never miss out on the best things and activities to do and try in Laois, listed below are some of the places you should visit. The good news here is that Laois still remains to be less crowded. It means there is no need for you to compete with other tourists for the perfect picnic or photography spots during your picturesque escape in the area.
- Barrow Way
If you want to take in all forms of nature, you wouldn’t want to miss the chance to walk or cycle the Laois portion of the gorgeous Barrow Way. It is a 100-kilometer walking trail that starts in Kildare and finishes in Carlow.
- Emo Court
One of the most famous attractions of Laois is none other than Emo Court. It is a stately house that boasts of one of Ireland’s finest neoclassical interiors. It underwent restoration during the 1960s and was later gifted to the Irish people. It is an architectural beauty containing a treasure trove of history located in one of the most spectacular sceneries of the country.
- Heywood Gardens
One of the hidden gems of Laois, the 50 acres of architectural delights, lakes, and gardens that make up Heywood Gardens is the best place to visit for people who are wild at heart. June and May are peak months for color and variety although you can enjoy botanical delights in the area all year round.
Other must-visit places in Laois include Rock of Dunamese, Arderin, Slieve Bloom Mountains, Donaghmore Famine Workhouse, Lisduff Adventure Farm, and Lea Castle.
