Laois Towns & Villages

A County of rich contrast, Laois is a place for people who want a different experience of Ireland. A meeting point for ancient heritage and contemporary culture, for rural tranquillity and busy towns and villages, for sophisticated luxury and rustic simplicity, Laois calls out to people who want something authentic and truly out of the ordinary.

Many beautiful heritage sites have been restored for the public to enjoy such as Emo Court and Gardens, Timahoe Round Tower, Aghaboe Abbey and Heywood Gardens. Another real treasure is the Rock of Dunamaise, which is one of the great monuments and fortresses of Ireland and offers breathtaking views of the County. There are reminders in Portarlington of its Huguenot past, Mountmellick for its lace while the estate towns of Abbeyleix and Durrow have their own unique character.

If you love nature, you’ll love Laois. Walking, cycling, horse-riding, golfing, fishing, polo, trekking, canal-cruising, it’s all to be discovered in the beautiful and peaceful countryside. The Slieve Blooms are undoubtedly one of Ireland’s most extraordinary mountain walking experiences. This mountain range, teeming with wildlife and fascinating ecology, offers an almost unlimited range of activities.

Fishing is one the best kept secrets in Laois. The rivers Nore and Barrow run through Laois as well as the Grand Can l and the many lakes dotted throughout the county. Take a visit to the Irish Fly-Fishing and Game Shooting Museum in Attanagh which is the only one of its kind in Europe.