Westmeath, The Fairy Capital of Ireland
Is Westmeath the fairy capital of Ireland?
Visitors to this enchanting county certainly seem to think so, with fairy trails winding through scenic landscapes, captivating hearts young and old alike. First stop is Belvedere House, Gardens & Park, a 160-acre estate renowned for its stunning gardens and wonderful playgrounds. Here, tucked away in a magical corner, lies the magical fairy garden, where imaginations will take flight.
On to Dún na Sí Amenity and Heritage Park, which translates from Irish as ‘fort of the fairies’, with its fairy island, trail and wishing chair, as well as a playground and pet farm. Named after local folklore, which tells of some lone hawthorn bushes, often called fairy bushes, that once marked the presence of a ‘fairy fort’. Dún na Sí honours the traditions and activities of rural Ireland over the years, while the amenity park offers a beautiful space that celebrates biodiversity providing a unique environment for recreation and the appreciation of nature.
Meanwhile, at Ballinahown Village, children can enjoy a whimsical woodland fairy trail, just 150 meters long and perfect for the smallest of legs. At the beautiful monastic side of Fore Abbey there is a delightful 3km Looped Walk around the site, which includes a pretty fairy trail through a woodland section. And Portlick Millenium Forest also boasts fairy lodgings hidden amongst the trees.
Finally, The Hill of Uisneach, a guided tour will immerse you in the origin story of the Irish Fairy. According to the myths, before the arrival of the Gaelic people, Ireland was inhabited by a race of supernatural beings known as the Tuatha Dé Danann. These mythical people are believed to represent the deities of pre-Christian Gaelic Ireland, who later became known as the Aos Sí or “faeries” in later folklore. Westmeath, what a county – there is magic to be found around every corner!
- Navigating Ireland: Comparing Costs and Experiences of Hiring a Private Driver vs. Renting a Car - November 7, 2024
- Four Amazing Donegal Destinations - November 2, 2024
- Relax and Unwind at Lough Eske Castle Hotel in Donegal - November 2, 2024