Off The Beaten Path: Ireland's Ancient East

When you explore Ireland’s Ancient East, you wander through 5,000 years of history. Peel back the layers of history and discover a story that unfolds in the vast green landscapes that seduced a millennia of settlers from Ancient Man to Early-Christians and Medieval Lords to Colonial Settlers. On your journey immerse yourself in history as you are greeted by prehistoric wonders, monastic marvels, magnificent castles and grand estates at every turn. This is 5,000 years of history. This is Ireland’s Ancient East.

Moving through swampland-turned-sacred settlement where a saint lived and died. Marvelling at monumental bridal dowries far beyond the realm of modern times. Exploring the extravagance of a rich man and a magnificent castle sold for a mere £50. 
You’ve reached the Historic Heartlands, and counties Offaly, Laois, Kildare, Tipperary, Limerick, Carlow and Kilkenny. A place where epic alliances were forged in love and expedience were born, carved into the land and the traditions honored ever since. Uncover supernatural tales of hellhounds and hidden treasure. See ancient dolmens, wander through medieval castles perched on hilltops and discover just how advanced prehistoric hunters really were.

The first and largest Palladian manor in Ireland, this Renaissance-inspired abode is a sight to behold. Set on an estate boasting pretty river walks and open parkland, the house itself is flanked by two extravagant wings. It was said that Conolly would require 240 horses to bring his half-year’s rent from Dublin to Castletown. TURTLE BUNBURY, AUTHOR AND HISTORIAN William Conolly was his name and dubious deals during the Williamite War in Ireland (1688-1691) had earned him a colossal fortune. When he died, Conolly was one of the richest men on the island and owned a staggering 100,000 acres of land. That’s equivalent to 75,625 football fields. At the heart of this acreage? Castletown House.

Lough Boora, County Offaly

Life in the Mesolithic era was simple: hunt, eat, sleep, repeat. And so it was in Lough Boora Bog where the stone blades, axe and arrow heads of hunters were discovered beneath the mire – as well as an Iron Age bog body complete with stab wound.

Tullamore D.E.W. Visitor Center, County Offaly

On the banks of the Grand Canal in County Offaly sits the 19th century warehouse that is home to Tullamore D.E.W., so named after the whiskey's creator Daniel E Williams. Connoisseurs will delight in the tasting tour, while novices can journey through Ireland’s whiskey-making history.

Birr Castle, County Offaly

Surrounded by the lush landscaped gardens of Birr Castle, William Parsons yearned to understand the star-strewn heavens above. His ever-impressive Leviathan telescope remains at the castle today, an abiding testament to his passion for astronomy.

People from all over need to call Rawhide Travel and Tours to access this property and start planning that special vacation or event today. 602-843-5100 or visit our website rawhidetravel.com.

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Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc.
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100
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