www.laoistourism.ie contact the Tourist Office: Office: contact the Tourist For tourism enquiries, contact +353 (0)57 862 1178 www.laoistourism.ie 862 1178 +353 (0)57 Laois Tourism Officer T: +353 (0)57 866 4132 E:
[email protected] or W: www.laoistourism.ie The publishers gratefully acknowledge photographic contributions primarily by Kevin Byrne PASSPORT TO LAOIS – IRELAND and Redmond Studios. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions but where such are brought to our attention future publications will be amended accordingly. Designed and produced by Penhouse Design www.penhouse.ie PASSPORT PASSPORT to Laois 2 Tourist Office: Tourist CONTENTS Welcome to Laois 4 Shopping & Crafts 36 +353 (0)57 862 1178 +353 862 (0)57 1178 A Brief History of Laois 5 Arts & Entertainment 42 Getting Here 6 Pubs 46 Laois Heritage 8 Eating Out 50 Day Trips from County Laois 13 Festivals & Events 52 Slieve Bloom Mountains 17 Twinning 55 Golf 20 Health & Beauty 56 Equestrian & Trekking 24 Accommodation 60 www.laoistourism.ie Walking & Cycling 25 Guides, Taxis & Coach Hire 73 Angling 28 Activities & Adventure 30 MAPS Map of Laois 74 Town Map of Portlaoise 75 PASSPORT PASSPORT WELCOME TO LAOIS Ancient Celtic sites, serene country villages, monastic round towers, to Laois windswept valley landscapes, rugged desolate bog lands, tumbling waterfalls – Laois is steeped in myth and legend. Today, Laois’s captivating heritage is supported by breath-taking landscapes where you can enjoy peaceful moments of rejuvenation. Take a drive through the Slieve Bloom Mountains and its quaint mountain villages, or visit the charming towns and magnificent gardens around the county.