Holiday Homes & Rentals in Athlone
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Holiday homes and rentals in Athlone
Plan your next holiday in Athlone and turn it into your perfect base to reconnect with friends and family. Explore Ireland’s heart and its Hidden Heartlands. Book your holiday home in Athlone, a small Irish city with a castle, fantastic pubs, a gorgeous river and tasty food. You will feel at home during your stay!
There is always an excuse to stop in AthlonStop for pleasure with your family on your way to Galway, or meet with friends and craft along the River Shannon. Your rental holiday in Athlon is your new home away from home. Cosy lounges, fully equipped kitchens, comfortable bedrooms, green areas and patios and the most beautiful landscapes you have ever seen. Accommodate up to 4 people in traditional cottages and modern and stylish home in the heart of Athlone.
Holidays in Athlone
The area and getting around
Located in the centre of the emerald island, Athlone is a town on the border of County Westmeath and County Roscommon. Nestled by the river Shannon, Athlone is home to Athlone Castle, located in the geographical and historical centre of the city. Visit the beautiful Lough Ree, or simply go on a boat along the River Shannon. Enjoy a walking tour, take your family to a farm or enjoy activities outdoors, including cycling, walking, horse riding and camping. To walk around town is one of the best ways to explore its streets, access the Bohemian cafés like Lowe & Co or enjoy a tipple at Sean’s Pub or at Gertie Browne’s. Watersports enthusiasts will also have a myriad of activities to choose from. There is always something to do in Athlone. Check the local activities and join the fun!
Go beyond AthloneAthlone is accessible by road and at your own pace, by bus using Bus Éireann services or by train. The public transport is a fantastic option as the city is well-connected to Dublin, Galway, Ballinasloe, Moate, Limerick, Cavan, Belfast and Roscommon. Just beyond Athlone, the urban life fades away into a rural landscape dominated by swathes of green, rivers and jaw-dropping views. Explore the abandoned Rindoon Mediaeval Town, enjoy the lake views on the Portlick Millennium Forest Walk, or go off-road and cycle along the Old Rail Trail, linking Athlone to Mullingar. If you love day trips instead, consider a visit to Lough Key Forest Park, Belvedere House or Derryglad Folk and Heritage Museum.
Travellers and activities
If you love learning about the culture of the place you are visiting, Athlone has many options for you! Start at Athlone Castle and delve into seven centuries of history brought to life. Enjoy a day out in the park stepping back into time and head to Moate, where you find Dún na Sí Amenity & Heritage Park. The Kuan Gallery is a feast for the eyes showcasing an eclectic and balanced mix of paintings, sculptures, modern art and media displays. No excuse if it’s raining outside! For a bit of Irish celebrations, the Hill of Uisneach is where the mythological and sacred centre of Ireland celebrates Irish culture, heritage, art and sport. It is the Uisneach Bealtaine: If you happen to be here in May, do not miss the chance to join this special celebration!
Athlone for history loversLet your mind be blown away by spectacular sights and have a unique experience exploring the monastic ruins of Clonmacnoise, one of Ireland’s quintessential spots. Marvel at the remains of an ancient cathedral and its ‘whispering door’, a round tower, seven churches and splendid high crosses, from which, the Cross of the Scriptures is the most popular one with its carved figures on all four sides. Clonmacnoise was once the centre of religion and learning in Europe and during the 800s, it was the most popular monastery that scholars from all over Europe used to visit. Today, the remaining ruins reflect the activity that once took place here. From artists, to monks and craftsmen producing incredible pieces of art including the ornate Bishop’s Crozier that you can see in the National Museum of Ireland. Get soaked with the history evolving this special site.
Did you know that in fact, Athlone is named after its pub? It was originally known as Luain's Inna, a name that comes from “Atha Luain”, meaning “Ford of Luain”.
Top 5 travel tips in Athlone
Take a trip to Sean’s Bar, also known as the ‘oldest bar in Ireland’! The history of this traditional and legendary pub goes back to 900 AD. Back then it was an inn. There are some historical artefacts and building materials found on site that got Sean’s Bar a place in the Guinness Book of Record. Cheers to that!
2. Enjoy your food and drinksSean’s Bar is a well-known place to eat or drink but Athlone is also well-known for its food scene. Enjoy traditional Irish food paired with a cold Guinness. Delight your senses with a traditional Sunday Roast, a shepherd’s pie, corned beef and cabbage, and have a slice of Irish bread with butter on it! In addition to a great pint, try some Irish whiskeys at Kilbeggan Distillery.
3. Athlone CastleThe centrepiece of Athlone is its castle, nestled on the banks of the River Shannon. Dating back to the 1200s, the castle has been at the crossroads of Irish history for over 800 years. Take a tour of the castle and learn about the role it played during the Siege of Athlone or the Irish fight for independence. You can choose to enjoy the explanation of experienced guides or visit it at your own pace.
4. The Hot Tub BoatA unique thing to do in Athlone is theHot Tub Boat! Get ready to set sail for a 90-minute trip around Lough Ree from a bubbly hot tub. They can accommodate up to six passengers, so go with friends, family or your loved one. Take in the views around the lake in style!
5. Discover AthloneThe best way to explore Athlone is by taking a guided tour. Learn a bit about Athlone and its history while getting a feel for the town. Listen to the stories the guide is going to tell you and get mesmerised by the beautiful and interesting corners of this Irish hidden gem!