County Westmeath boasts a variety of scenic walking trails and greenways, making it a haven for couples who enjoy the outdoors. Castle Varagh Hotel serves as the ideal base to explore these picturesque routes and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
Mullaghameen Forest is the largest planted beech forest in Ireland. The forest also is home to Scots pine and noble fir alongside a number of native tree species and plenty of wildlife including grey squirrels, jays, badgers, foxes, pheasant, rabbits, hares and a variety of different birds. It features almost 23 kilometres of walking track and leads to the highest point in Westmeath which offers spectacular views across Lough Sheelin and into County Cavan. With a range of trails for varying levels of fitness, the White Trail provides a reminder of the famine with relic walls, while the Red Walk features a summer grazing shelter known as the Booley Hut.
Mullaghameen ForestA 3km looped walk around the historic village of Fore, this trail allows visitors to explore an early Christian settlement founded in the 7th century.Highlights include the ruins of Fore Abbey, the 'Seven Wonders of Fore,' and a charming fairy village nestled in the woodland.
St. Feichin’s Way, ForeEstablished in 1757, the Old Kilbeggan Distillery is still a working distillery today and offers guided visitor tours of its classic whitewashed walls, slate roof, towering chimney stack, timber water wheel and the location of several ghost sightings! Stay a while in the authentic Whiskey Bar and pick up a souvenir or two in the gift shop.
Sean’s Bar in Athlone is another historic site and holds the record for “The Oldest Pub in Ireland” in the Guinness Book of Records. During renovations in 1970, the pub’s walls were found to be made of wattle and wicker and helped date the location to 900AD.
The Chimera Gallery offers couples an immersive experience among local and international art collections. Offering a variety of events and exhibitions, the gallery strives to show as many genres as possible from throughout the world, including work from artists in the United States, France and Australia.
Seasoned race goers and first timers alike will love the buzz and excitement of the greyhound races. Admission is €10 for adults and provides access to the stadium and restaurants and bars.
