Louth County

Itineraries

Exploring County Louth offers a captivating journey through history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're visiting for just a day or planning an extended stay, these itineraries are crafted to help you discover the best of "The Wee County."

One-Day Itinerary: Historical Highlights

  • Morning: Begin your exploration in Drogheda, one of Ireland’s oldest towns. Start at the Millmount Museum and Fort for a panoramic view of the town and a primer on its rich history. Don’t miss St. Peter’s Church, renowned for housing the relic of St. Oliver Plunkett.
  • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Irish fare at one of Drogheda’s cozy pubs or cafes.
  • Afternoon: Drive to Monasterboice to admire the historic high crosses and round tower. Then, continue to the medieval village of Carlingford where you can explore Carlingford Castle and the charming streets lined with preserved medieval architecture.
  • Evening: Have dinner in Carlingford or take a sunset walk along the shores of Carlingford Lough.

Weekend Getaway: Culture and Nature

  • Day 1: Follow the one-day itinerary.
  • Day 2:
    • Morning: Visit the Proleek Dolmen in the grounds of Ballymascanlon Hotel, then explore the stunning landscapes of the Cooley Peninsula, ideal for hiking.
    • Lunch: Savor a meal at a local eatery in the Cooley Peninsula, possibly a seaside cafe.
    • Afternoon: Visit the scenic village of Blackrock. Relax on the beach or, if you’re feeling active, take a cycling tour around the peninsula.
    • Evening: Return to Drogheda or Dundalk for dinner and possibly enjoy a live music session or theater performance.

Week-Long Exploration of County Louth and Beyond

  • Days 1-2: Cover the weekend itinerary.
  • Day 3: Dedicate a day to visiting the Newgrange and Knowth at the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre, diving deep into the Neolithic history with guided tours.
  • Day 4:
    • Morning: Explore Slane Castle and its grounds, perhaps sampling whiskey at the distillery.
    • Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely drive through the Boyne Valley or relax in the castle gardens.
  • Day 5:
    • Morning: Spend time in Dundalk exploring local shops and museums, such as the County Museum Dundalk.
    • Afternoon: Play golf or visit Ravensdale Forest for a nature walk.
  • Day 6: Consider a day trip to nearby Dublin or Belfast, both about an hour away, offering additional historical sites, shopping, and dining.
  • Day 7: Relaxation day. Spend your final day enjoying leisure activities such as a spa day at one of Louth’s luxurious hotels or take a boat trip on the Boyne River, reflecting on the enriching experiences of the past week.

These itineraries provide a comprehensive guide to experiencing County Louth, ensuring visitors can enjoy a blend of historical exploration, cultural engagement, and relaxation in one of Ireland’s most enchanting counties.