Charming, picturesque and ever-surprising, Athlone is a vibrant town in the heart of Ireland’s Midlands at the edge of Lough Ree. Geographically, it sits in the very middle of the country, but it has also earned a reputation as the centre for all things holiday magic: a destination offering an array of quality experiences that thrill, entertain, educate, amaze and reward. Best-in-class, unmatched experiences enjoyed every year by visitors from near and far and for all kinds of escapes.
Walks, Trails & Greenways
Step away from the vibrant town of Athlone and no distance away you will be immersed in nature, fauna and wildlife. Pack a picnic or follow a nature trail on foot or bike the choice is yours. Hop on the Old Rail Trail Greenway at various access points in Athlone, The greenway traces the historic Midlands Great Western Railway track, past restored station houses and under pretty stone arched bridges. Linking the River Shannon Marina in Athlone with the Royal Canal in Mullingar, Or with the sun on your back and water lapping at your side, take a stroll along the Shannon Banks Nature Trail. It begins in the shadow of Athlone Castle in the heart of Athlone twon and leads you along a path that’s bursting with a diversity of wildlife. If you venture a short distance from Athlone Portlick Millennium Forest awaits you. An outstanding 5km walk with shorter routes available, Portlick Millennium Forest invites you to explore the thickly wooded glades and beautiful farmlands of Portlick and the Whinning peninsula of Lough Ree.
Athlone Town Wall
If you’ve ever walked around Athlone, you might well have seen the remnants of the stone wall that once encircled the town. It’s an impressive structure, some of it passing by buildings like St Mary’s Church, others hidden by private gardens. But while the sight of it is striking, the history is far more impressive.
Church of St Peter and Paul, Athlone
There’s something about a stained glass window that never fails to move those who stand before it. Whether it’s the way the light falls through the coloured panes, or the emotion captured on the faces of those portrayed, stained glass is one of the most emotive mediums of our time. And of all the art and artists, Harry Clarke stands out as one of the finest. So it seems fortuitous that a series of stained glass windows from the Harry Clarke studio is found within the Church of St Peter and Paul, which is located right next to the Luan Gallery in Athlone.
Try some of Ireland's finest golf courses in Athlone and the surrounding area here
On The Water
No matter what you style is when it comes to the water Athlone has something for everyone. Whether you choose adventure and heart-thumping action or just an afternoon chilling cruising the River Shannon you wont be dissapointed:
Family Fun, do the things you love, make moments and fill the memory bank with the best family magic ever: