Nestled near the centre of Ireland, County Laois brims with mountains, forests, rivers and lakes, as well as sumptuous country estates and ancient castles — ideal for nature lovers and history buffs to explore. Less well-known than some of Ireland’s most popular regions, County Laois offers simple B&Bs and gorgeous Palladian villas-turned-hotels, suited to a broad range of tastes and budgets. Our pick of the best places to stay in County Laois are characterful country houses with fascinating histories and stunning grounds, ensuring that you’re perfectly poised to delve into the area’s many delights.
There are walks and hikes aplenty in the Slieve Bloom Mountains and the Glenbarrow area, as well as superb cycling and riding trails snaking across the county. Bike along the picturesque Barrow Way, or get out on Laois’ lakes and rivers for fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding and laid-back boat tours. Fans of Lutyens will adore the 50-acre Heywood Gardens, whilst golfers can play a round or two at the Mountrath, Portarlington or Abbeyleix Golf Clubs, all of which offer striking rural views.
If it’s historic edifices and ancient ruins that you’re after, look to Emo Court & Parklands — also the site of a beautiful garden — Aghaboe Abbey, the Timahoe Round Tower or the towering Rock of Dunamase, just outside Portalaoise. County Laois’ towns, too, offer attractive eateries, heritage architecture and some great shopping. Pretty Abbeyleix, the county town of Portaloaise and lovely Mountrath, at the foot of the Slieve Mountains, all make for appealing days out. Journey to Mountmellick, founded by Quakers, for its Embroidery Museum, or to Portarlington for a sense of the town’s Huguenot past — still visible though its 17th and 18th-century buildings. Check out the exciting annual programme of events at the Arthouse Library & Gallery in Stradbally, too, to catch talks, creative workshops and exhibitions.
With celebrations of heritage and walking, a lively theatrical programme, vintage car rallies and writing festivals, there’s heaps to see and do in County Laois throughout the year. Come for the lively events and soak up the region’s slower pace of life as you amble along forested trails and paddle across sparkling lakes. Whether you’re into off-road cycling or peering at ancient fortifications, the best places to stay in County Laois promise evenings of crackling log fires and fabulous seasonal fare, excellent for unwinding in absolute bliss.
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County Laois (Mountrath)
Lovely country house hotel. Interiors are warm and welcoming with brightly painted walls, oil paintings and four poster beds. Superb dining in the communal dining room, often with the hosts. Herb garden and book-filled sitting room. A treat.
County Laois (County Laois)
Immaculately restored, opulently furnished, Regency country mansion situated at the foot of the Slieve Bloom mountains. Five-star luxury throughout. Sumptuous rooms filled with original Irish art. The price tag is steep but it's an iconic stay.
