With its drumlin-dotted hills and endless stretches of woodland, County Cavan is one of the best-kept secrets of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. Located in the northwest, it’s a destination of rolling landscapes and crystal-clear lakes. In fact, the county is said to have a lake for every day of the year. But it’s also a place where you can experience authentic Irish culture and savour locally sourced fine dining. Or discover one of the finest prehistoric relict landscapes in Ireland at Cavan Burren Park. It’s no surprise, then, that Cavan has been slowly making a name for itself as a place to slow down and switch off. Whether you want to enjoy long unhurried walks or settle in for a cosy pub lunch, Cavan has you covered. In this corner of Ireland, doing less might just be the most rewarding thing you do.
Lough Oughter, County Cavan
Courtesy of Brian Morrison
County Cavan may feel like a recent discovery, but people have been drawn to this quiet idyll for thousands of years. Neolithic monuments, Bronze Age remains, and traces of Celtic, Norman and Early Christian settlements are scattered across the landscape, telltale remnants of the lives lived here.
A good place to begin is the award-winning Cavan County Museum, filled with artefacts from the Stone Age to the 20th century. The museum is home to the World War One Trench Experience, the largest replica of its kind in the UK and Ireland.
The Belturbet Heritage Railway Museum is a small but engaging local museum, dedicated to the story of the railway era in the county. It’s located within the pretty market town of Belturbet, set on the banks of the River Erne. Turbet Island, in the centre of town, is home to the remains of an Anglo-Norman motte-and-bailey, built as a defensive fortification in the 13th century.
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Further west, Drumlane Abbey and Round Tower, just outside the village of Milltown, offer a glimpse into the county’s Early Christian past. The round tower here dates back to the 11th or 12th century. While the original church was replaced by a medieval building, local legend has it that its bell can be heard ringing every few years from the bottom of Drumlane Lake.
Cavan Burren Park, County Cavan
Courtesy Brian Morrison
Extraordinary landscapes lie at the heart of County Cavan, thanks to a mix of geological wonders and wild scenery. An unmissable destination is Cavan Burren Park, where ancient tombs, glacial erratics and limestone landscapes reveal thousands of years of history. More than 10km of walking trails offer the perfect way to explore what is one of the finest prehistoric landscapes in Ireland.
A little north of here is the Shannon Pot, the tranquil spring traditionally recognised as the source of Ireland’s longest river.
Beyond these landmarks, there’s a network of walking trails that leads through peaceful countryside. For a more active adventure, explore the nearby Cuilcagh Boardwalk and the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark, shared with neighbouring County Fermanagh.
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Adventures on the water in CavanSome of County Cavan’s most memorable adventures begin on the water. Paddle out across the glassy surface of Lough Oughter with Cavan Adventure Centre. Here, the atmospheric ruins of Clough Oughter Castle rise dramatically from a small island. Accessible only by boat, the 13th-century castle feels wonderfully cut off from the world and is one of the county’s most serene and secluded spots.
Afterwards, discover the woodland trails of Killykeen Forest Park or the scenic walks and abundant wildlife of Dún na Rí Forest Park.
Angling heaven in CavanCavan is also a well-known destination for coarse and pike fishing. With 365 lakes, its fisheries are considered among the finest in Europe. Killeshandra, Butlersbridge and Cavan town are top pike fishing destinations, while Lough Sheelin carries a bigger stock of brown trout than any lough in Ireland.
A taste of CavanCounty Cavan’s rich heritage is matched by its hospitality. This is a destination where you can linger in the relaxed cafés of Cavan town or savour exceptional local food in fine-dining restaurants. Standouts include MacNean House in Blacklion, the Olde Post Inn in Cloverhill and the Oak Rooms in Cavan town.
Add traditional music sessions, friendly pubs and top hotels such as the Slieve Russell, and you’ll soon discover the warmth and character that make County Cavan so special.
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Lough Erne, County Fermanagh
Courtesy of Tourism Ireland by Gardiner Mitchell
County Cavan is the perfect base for discovering more of the island’s hidden gems. To the north, neighbouring County Fermanagh is home to the island-dotted waters of Lough Erne, the spectacular Marble Arch Caves and the historic town of Enniskillen. Its proximity makes it a natural extension to any Cavan adventure.
To the west, neighbouring County Leitrim offers peaceful waterways, charming villages and spectacular scenery. Visit the beautiful Glencar Waterfall and explore the vibrant riverside town of Carrick-on-Shannon. Or discover the county’s scenic walking trails and unspoilt landscapes.
With its ancient landscapes, peaceful waterways and hidden gems, County Cavan is one of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands’ most captivating destinations. Discover its tranquil beauty today.
