County Leitrim Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, and accommodations in County Leitrim, Ireland. Uncover local culture, cuisine, and insider tips for a perfect vacation.


Introduction to County Leitrim

County Leitrim is situated in the Northwest region of Ireland, bordering Northern Ireland. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, lakes, and outdoor sporting activities. This county provides an authentic taste of Irish culture, displayed through its rich heritage of music, dance, and storytelling. While it may be one of the smallest counties in Ireland, County Leitrim still has plenty to offer visitors from all over the world.

List of Places to Visit in County Leitrim

Here are some of the must-visit places when exploring County Leitrim:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Glencar Waterfall: A majestic waterfall situated in the county’s northernmost point, surrounded by lush greenery, and accessible by a winding footpath.
  • Lough Key Forest Park: A popular destination known for its history & heritage, recreational activities, and picnic areas. The park’s focal point is the stunning Lough Key itself, offering boat tours and camping facilities.
  • Creevelea Abbey: A well-preserved 16th-century Franciscan friary offering a glimpse into medieval Ireland’s monastic lifestyle.
  • The Leitrim Design House: A hub for showcasing local artists and designers’ talents, where one can buy unique, hand-crafted souvenirs and gifts.

Natural Attractions of County Leitrim: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sliabh an Iarainn: One of Ireland’s highest inland mountains, known for its scenic views, hikes, and nature trails.
  • Carrick-on-Shannon: The River Shannon, Ireland’s longest river, flows through this town, making it an ideal location for water sporting activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing.
  • The Arigna Mining Experience: An interactive tour of a working mine, providing visitors with a fascinating insight into Ireland’s energy past and future.
  • The Wild Atlantic Way: County Leitrim is one of the designated regions on this famous 2500 km coastal route, offering incredible views of the Atlantic ocean, beaches, and rugged cliffs.

Hiking/Biking Routes of County Leitrim

County Leitrim is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with ample options for exploring the great outdoors, such as:

  • Sliabh an Iarainn: This mountain’s summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is popular with hikers and walkers.
  • The Shannon Blueway: A scenic trail that follows Ireland’s longest river and offering opportunities for walking, cycling, and kayaking.
  • Lough Allen: The lake provides several walking trails, including the Lurganboy Walk, which is a 6.5 km circular route that showcases some unique flora and fauna.

Best Things to Do in County Leitrim: Activities and Tours

Some of the best things to do in County Leitrim are:

  • Take a boat tour on the River Shannon: In Carrick-on-Shannon, visitors can enjoy a boat ride through Ireland’s longest river and learn about local history and folklore.
  • Visit the Organic Centre: Located on the shores of Lough Melvin, this agricultural center displays organic gardening techniques and offers courses and workshops for visitors to learn.
  • Experience the traditional Irish culture at a music session: County Leitrim is famous for its lively music scene, with regular ceilis (traditional Irish dances) held throughout the county.
  • Go Fishing: The county is home to many rivers and lakes, including the River Shannon and Lough Melvin, which offer excellent fishing grounds for anglers.

Week-Long Itinerary for County Leitrim

Here’s an itinerary for a week-long trip to County Leitrim:

Day 1 Arrive in Carrick-on-Shannon, Explore the town, and take a boat tour
Day 2 Visit the Glencar Waterfall and hike up Sliabh an Iarainn
Day 3 Take a trip to Lough Key Forest Park and enjoy the recreational activities
Day 4 Experience Ireland’s energy past and future with a visit to the Arigna Mining experience
Day 5 Explore the local cuisine with a food tour and sample local fare
Day 6 Visit the Leitrim Design House, explore the local artists and designers’ works
Day 7 Spend the last day fishing at Lough Melvin or the River Shannon

Food and Drink Scene of County Leitrim

Irish cuisine is a rich tapestry of recipes dating back generations. County Leitrim has plenty of delicacies to offer. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Irish Stew: A hearty, rustic dish made with lamb or mutton, potatoes, carrots, and onions.
  • Boxty: A traditional potato pancake made with grated potato, flour, and buttermilk and served with bacon and cabbage.
  • Dublin Coddle: A stew made with pork sausage, bacon, and potatoes.
  • Colcannon: A mix of mashed potatoes, cabbage, and onions.

Local Beverages

  • Guinness: Ireland’s most iconic beer, with a rich, creamy texture and balanced flavor.
  • Bushmills Whiskey: A smooth and versatile whiskey distilled in Northern Ireland.
  • Irish Coffee: A coffee made with Irish whiskey, sugar, and cream, perfect for warming up on a cold day.

Where to Stay in County Leitrim: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

County Leitrim has a range of accommodations to choose from that cater to all budgets and preferences. Here are some options:

  • The Bush Hotel: A family-run hotel situated in the heart of Carrick-on-Shannon, providing modern facilities and traditional hospitality.
  • Lough Rynn Castle Estate & Gardens: A luxury castle hotel built-in 1839 situated on the shores of Lough Rynn.
  • The Courthouse Hostel: A contemporary hostel situated in the center of Carrick-on-Shannon, perfect for budget travelers.

What to Buy in County Leitrim: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Hand-crafted pottery and ceramics: The region is famous for its pottery makers who specialize in one-off pieces.
  • Knitwear: Ireland’s reputation for quality woolens is well-known globally and county Leitrim has skilled artisans who create attractive and functional clothes.
  • Organic skincare: The beauty care industry also thrives in this part of Ireland. You can buy organic soaps, creams, and facial treatments made with locally sourced organic ingredients.

Local Culture and Customs of County Leitrim

County Leitrim is home to traditional Irish culture as showcased through its music, dance, and festivals. Attend a traditional ceili dance, visit a local pub, or attend a traditional music concert to immerse yourself in the region’s culture.

Best Time to Visit County Leitrim

The best time to visit County Leitrim is during the summer months (June-August), when the weather is mild and sunny. However, spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are also gorgeous times to visit, when the countryside is awash with color.

Do’s and Don’ts of County Leitrim

Do:

  • Do carry waterproof gear and sturdy walking boots.
  • Do visit the small towns and villages to get a feel of local life.
  • Do sample the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Do check out the traditional music and dance scene.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in the countryside.
  • Don’t disturb the flora and fauna.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for directions or recommendations.

Safety and Health

Safety in County Leitrim

County Leitrim is considered safe for travelers. However, it’s always advisable to take the necessary precautions, such as keeping your valuables safe and secure, not walking alone at night, and taking care when participating in outdoor activities.

Health in County Leitrim

Travelers are advised to keep up to date with their routine vaccinations and medications before traveling to Ireland. Drinking water from the tap is generally safe, but it is still recommended to drink bottled water if you are unsure.

Getting to County Leitrim: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near County Leitrim

  • Ireland West Airport Knock (NOC): Situated 65 km from County Leitrim, it provides daily flights to several European cities and hubs.

Bus Stations Near County Leitrim

  • Bus Eireann: Provides daily services to County Leitrim from Dublin and other major cities in Ireland.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is the most convenient option to explore County Leitrim and the neighboring counties.

How to Get Around in County Leitrim

The best option for getting around County Leitrim is by car. However, there are public transport options available, including buses and trains.

Where to Go Next from County Leitrim: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Sligo: A neighboring county, known for its rugged landscapes, surf beaches, and traditional culture.
  • Donegal: A county in northwest Ireland, known for its wild landscapes, the Slieve League cliffs, and beautiful beaches.
  • Dublin: The capital city of Ireland, known for its rich history, lively nightlife, and bustling atmosphere.

Conclusion

County Leitrim offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning landscapes, indulge in traditional Irish culture, and enjoy outdoor adventure activities. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or the great outdoors, County Leitrim has something for everyone. We hope this guide has inspired you to visit this beautiful part of Ireland.

Leitrim Leitrim Glencar Waterfall Glencar Waterfall Shannon Bridge at Carrick Shannon Bridge at Carrick


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