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My Ireland

Looking for inspiration? Planning a trip? Or just want to scroll yourself happy? We'll show you an Ireland that's tailor-made for you.

  • #Landscapes
  • #CultureandHeritage
  • #OutdoorActivities
  • #Landmarks
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    Rock of Dunamase Co Laoiswebsize Rock of Dunamase Co Laoiswebsize

    The Rock of Dunamase

    In beautiful County Laois, you’ll find the incredible Rock of Dunamase – a hilltop fortress boasting spectacular views
    • #HistoricIreland
    • #IrelandsAncientEast
    • #CultureandHeritage
    County Laois
    Historic landmarks
    1 hr from Dublin Airport

    County Laois

    cliffs-of-moher-us-email-overlay cliffs-of-moher-us-email-overlay

    It is a quirk of Ireland that we give majestic monuments unassuming names. Rising from a jagged misshapen outcrop, towering over fields of green that unfurl towards the horizon, the Rock of Dunamse in County Laois is one such place.

    This is no ordinary rock. Pillaged by Vikings in 845, fought over by warriors and gifted by the King of Leinster, Diarmuid Mac Murrough, to the Norman chief Strongbow in 1170 as part of a dowry for his daughter Aoife, the Rock of Dunamase is a spectacular ruined fortress that has stood the test of time.

    Today, this hidden gem – abandoned in the 14th century – is one of the most compelling places to visit in Ireland’s Ancient East. Walk the paths around the ruined fortress, be wowed by the commanding views over the low-lying fields of County Laois, and uncover the fort’s many stories and secrets.

    Rock of Dunamase Co Laoiswebsize1 Rock of Dunamase Co Laoiswebsize1

    Rock of Dunamase, County Laois

    Need to know

    1

    The Rock of Dunamase is open all year round and is free to enter.

    2

    There are paths around the Rock of Dunamase but the terrain can be rocky in places, and some of the paths are steep.

    3

    Limited parking is available at the site.

    Things to see and do nearby

    Attraction

    Emo Court

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    Laois

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    Accommodation

    Abbeyleix Manor

    3/5

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    Laois

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    Attraction

    Heywood Gardens

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    Laois

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    Attraction

    Ballykilcavan Brewery

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    Laois

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    Attraction

    Donaghmore Famine Workhouse Museum

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    Laois

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    Accommodation

    The Killeshin Hotel

    4/5

    Visit website

    Laois

    View details

    Attraction

    Stradbally Fayre

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    Laois

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    Attraction

    Ballintubbert Gardens & House

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    Laois

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    Attraction

    Abbeyleix Golf Club

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    Laois

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    Accommodation

    Kilkea Castle Estate and Golf Club

    4/5

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    Kildare

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    Attraction

    Solas Eco Garden Centre

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    Laois

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