County Roscommon Travel Guide

A detailed travel guide to County Roscommon in Ireland, including information on places to visit, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health tips, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to County Roscommon

County Roscommon is a beautiful and charming Irish county located in the western part of Ireland. It is known for its stunning natural attractions, historical landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene. It is a must-see destination for avid travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs alike.

List of Places to Visit in County Roscommon

If you are planning to visit County Roscommon, here are the top places you should add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Roscommon Castle: A stunning 13th-century castle that played a key role in Ireland’s history
  • Strokestown Park House and National Famine Museum: A restored Georgian mansion that showcases the life of the Irish gentry during the 19th century, as well as the tragic events of the Great Famine.
  • Boyle Abbey: A 12th-century Cistercian monastery that features beautiful Gothic and Romanesque architecture.

Natural Attractions of County Roscommon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lough Key Forest Park: A beautiful park that features a lake, forest trails, a tree canopy walk, and an adventure center with zipline tours and treetop walks.
  • Sliabh Bawn: A popular hiking destination that offers panoramic views of the countryside.
  • The Arigna Mining Experience: A fascinating tour of an old coal mine, where you can learn about the lives of miners and the history of coal mining in Ireland.

Hiking/Biking Routes of County Roscommon

County Roscommon is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with numerous trails and routes to explore. Here are some of the best paths to try out:

  • Suck Valley Way: A 105km trail that runs along the River Suck, through forests and countryside.
  • Croagh Patrick: A challenging hike up a mountain that offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
  • The Miners Way and Historical Trail: A 118km route that takes you through ancient sites and old mining villages.

Best Things to Do in County Roscommon: Activities and Tours

County Roscommon has something for everyone, from history buffs to adventure seekers. Here are some of the best things to do in the county:

  • Take a romantic cruise on the River Shannon: Enjoy the beautiful scenery and historic landmarks as you sail along the river.
  • Visit the local farmers market: Experience the local culture and taste the delicious local produce.
  • Join a whiskey tour: Explore the distilleries and sample the unique flavors of Irish whiskey.

Week-Long Itinerary for County Roscommon

If you plan to spend a week in County Roscommon, here is a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Explore Roscommon Castle and its grounds
2 Hike the Suck Valley Way
3 Visit Strokestown Park House and National Famine Museum
4 Take a boat tour of Lough Key Forest Park
5 Discover the Arigna Mining Experience
6 Cycle the Miners Way and Historical Trail
7 Relax in a traditional pub and enjoy some Irish music

Food and Drink Scene of County Roscommon

County Roscommon is a food and drink lover’s paradise, with a variety of local specialties to try. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Roscommon Lamb: A succulent local lamb dish, often served with rosemary and garlic.
  • Boxty: A traditional potato pancake, served with various fillings.
  • Carrageen Moss Pudding: A delicious dessert made with a red seaweed that is abundant along the county’s coastline.

Local Beverages

  • Smithwick’s Ale: A popular Irish ale, brewed in Kilkenny.
  • Connemara Peated Single Malt Irish Whiskey: A unique, smoky whiskey with a distinctive flavor.
  • Mór Irish Gin: A premium gin made with local botanicals, including wildflowers and heather.

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

County Roscommon has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some excellent options include:

  • Hodson Bay Hotel: A luxurious hotel located on the shores of Lough Ree, with stunning views and excellent amenities.
  • Abbey Hotel: A historic hotel located in the heart of Roscommon town, with elegant rooms and a lively bar.
  • The Glasshouse Hotel: A contemporary hotel in the charming town of Boyle, with stylish rooms and a rooftop bar.

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

When in County Roscommon, be sure to pick up some souvenirs and local products to bring home. Some popular options include:

  • Knitwear: County Roscommon is known for its high-quality wool and knitwear, so be sure to pick up a cozy sweater or scarf.
  • Artisanal Cheese: The county has several artisanal cheese producers, and their products are delicious souvenirs.
  • Craft Beer: If you are a beer lover, check out the local craft breweries and pick up a bottle or two to enjoy later.

Local Culture and Customs of County Roscommon

The people of County Roscommon are known for their warm hospitality and love of music and storytelling. Visitors are welcome to join in the local festivities and traditions, such as traditional music sessions in pubs and local festivals.

Best Time to Visit County Roscommon

The best time to visit County Roscommon is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the countryside is in full bloom. However, the county’s natural beauty and cultural attractions are worth seeing year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of County Roscommon

Do:

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Dress in layers and bring rain gear, as the weather can be unpredictable.

Don’t:

  • Be rude or disrespectful to locals.
  • Leave litter or damage the natural environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in County Roscommon

County Roscommon is a safe destination for travelers, but it is always a good idea to practice common sense safety measures, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in County Roscommon

Visitors to County Roscommon do not need any specific vaccinations, and the county has good healthcare facilities. However, it is always advisable to have travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses.

Getting to County Roscommon: Transportation Options and Logistics

County Roscommon is easy to reach by several modes of transportation.

Airports Near County Roscommon

The closest airport to County Roscommon is Ireland West Airport Knock, located about 40 km away. Dublin Airport is also about 160 km away and has more international flight options.

Bus Stations Near County Roscommon

The nearest major bus station is in Athlone, about 20 km away, and offers connections to other major Irish cities.

Other Options

Trains also connect to Roscommon via the Athlone station, with services to Galway, Dublin and other destinations.

How to Get Around in County Roscommon

County Roscommon is best explored by car, as many of the attractions are located in rural areas. However, if you prefer public transport, there are bus and train services available, as well as taxi services.

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

County Roscommon is ideally situated for exploring other parts of Ireland, such as:

  • Galway: A charming coastal city known for its live music, historic landmarks, and artistic culture.
  • Mayo: A rugged and wild region with stunning natural beauty and ancient historical sites.
  • Sligo: A beautiful county known for its stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a beautiful and authentic Irish experience, County Roscommon is the perfect destination. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, it offers something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, County Roscommon is a must-see destination in Ireland.

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    Boyle
    Roscommon