Overview

After collecting your chosen motorhome from the Bunk Campers Dublin depot, your Ireland Ancient East adventure begins. Make your way towards county Cavan, often referred to as ‘The Lakeland County.’ Overflowing with jaw-dropping panoramic views, remote towns and mystical forests. Cavan deserves all the time you can give it.

We have allocated 2 days to explore Cavan, but you might want to spend longer exploring the beautiful county.

On your way towards Cavan, discover the impressive collection of nature parks and prehistoric sites that make the town so special. Starting first with the famous Hill of Tara, an ancient stone-built complex that’s believed to have been the seat of the High Kings of Ireland in Celtic times.

Located nearby, you will find The Boyne Valley which plays host to an intriguing array of ancient ruins ranging from an abundance of cairns and standing stones to forts and castles.

If you want to witness some of Ireland’s native wildlife, you might want to visit Killykeen Forest Park in County Cavan. This is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic, and embrace Ireland’s stunning natural beauty.

To learn more about Ireland’s history, you might want to visit the Parick Kavannagh Centre, a haven for literature lovers.

Take a short drive to the beautiful Cavan Burren Geopark. Here, you can walk through a maze of Megalithic tombs, ancient stone walls and underground caves. A truly unique experience and arguably the best introduction to your Ancient Ireland road trip.

You might want to stay at Lough Ramor Caravan and Camping Park listed below.

On day 3, make your way towards Westmeath.

A must-see destination is Athlone Castle. As one of the most important Irish fortresses and strongholds, the castle has been involved in historical disturbances and conflicts over the last 900 years. Why not add a historical backdrop to your picnic and enjoy the castle courtyard. Athlone Castle dates back to 1200s and is filled with stories of many battles that were once fought at the very grounds. Enjoy interactive games that guide you through the castle’s halls and history providing a unique experience and insight into the castle’s life.

Afterwards, head to Sean’s Bar & Restaurant one of Ireland’s oldest pubs dating back to 900 AD. This bar holds the Guinness Book of Records title of the ‘Oldest Pub in the British Isles.’ If that isn’t reason enough to visit then you might be tempted by the live music and uplifting atmosphere that this restaurant is known for.

Venture off the beaten track and explore Kilbeggan Distillery Experience. Here you can learn how Irish Whiskey is made and maybe even taste a sample.

If you enjoy archaeology you might be interested in heading out to see Corlea Trackway. This prehistoric bogland route was initially unearthed in the middle of the 1980s and was constructed around the first millennium BC. The Corlea Trackway visitor centre is a great place to visit on a rainy day.

Spend the night at Lough Ennell Caravan and Camping Park and enjoy a cozy night relaxing in your home on wheels.

In the evening, why not cook dinner in your motorhome then spend the evening relaxing in your lounge and enjoy some board games and card games.

On day 4, drive towards Offaly.

Visit the spectacular monastery Clonmacnoise on the banks of the beautiful river Shannon. The ruins of the Clonmacnoise include a Cathedral, two round Towers, three high crosses and nine Churches.

Spend the afternoon at one of the most beautiful castles along Ireland’s Ancient East, Birr Castle. This medieval fortress is a slight detour on your driving holiday, but one that is entirely worthwhile.

Head towards the Slieve Bloom mountains and enjoy a beautiful mountain range.

Spend the night at a campsite of your choice. You might want to stay at Streamstown Caravan & Camping Park mentioned below.

Drive towards Tipperary and explore the famous Rock of Cashel. An imposing cluster of medieval buildings with a round tower, chapel, cathedral, and castle, perched on a narrow limestone.

Take a short drive just outside the small Tipperary town of Cahir, and explore the early 19th century Swiss Cottage. The cottage provides a peaceful setting that will leave you feeling calm and at ease. The perfect cottage for afternoon picnics.

Stay at a campsite of your choice. You might want to stay at Glen of Aherlow Caravan and Camping Park.

Enjoy this beautiful campsite and soak up all the Irish ancestry and mystery that lies in the surrounding campsite area.

Start the drive towards Kilkenny.

When you arrive at the beautiful city of Kilkenny, it won’t take you long to fall in love with the city’s atmosphere and stunning sights.

Explore the medieval alleyways and cobbled streets of the Medieval Mile in Kilkenny city centre.

A short drive out of Kilkenny you will find Dunbrody Famine Ship, which is a replica of one of the “coffin” ships that transported Irish emigrants to North America. Take time to embrace the history in this beautiful area of Ireland.

Spend the afternoon unwinding at Nore Valley Park. The Park is filled with so much to do including its very own pet farm. Stay at the campsite for a quiet and peaceful nights rest.

On the way back to the Dublin depot, stop off at Ballygillaroe, Wicklow, and explore the beautiful surroundings.

Get your hiking boots ready and prepare for a brilliant adventure to Glendalough, one of Ireland’s most stunning glens. Your heart will skip a beat as you witness the panoramic views of the Wicklow countryside from this remarkable u-shaped valley. You might want to explore the monastic settlement’s ruins, which are positioned at the bottom of the glen.

Spend the late afternoon enjoying a stroll through Powerscourt House, a Palladian stately home surrounded by 19 hectares of sweeping landscapes studded with horticultural gems.

Staying at River Valley Caravan & Camping Holiday Park, you can enjoy activities including crazy golf, a petting zoo and pool tables. The campsite also has a separate adult-only area.

It’s the final day of your Ancient East itinerary and time to head back to the Bunk Campers Dubin depot.

If you’re not ready for your Ancient East itinerary to end you might want to spend an extra 2-4 days exploring Ireland’s counties of Wicklow, Wexford and Waterford. This is Ireland’s hub of outdoor activities and filled with fun and adventure.