More about Roscommon County
Discover the Hidden Gems: Fun Facts About Roscommon, Ireland
Roscommon is a small county located in the west of Ireland, known for its rolling hills, picturesque landscapes, and rich history. Here are some fun facts that you might not know about Roscommon:
- Roscommon is home to a unique breed of sheep called the Roscommon Horned. These sheep have distinctive curved horns and are a rare sight outside of the county.
- The town of Boyle in Roscommon was once home to the largest Cistercian monastery in Ireland. Today, the ruins of the monastery are a popular tourist attraction.
- Roscommon is known for its traditional Irish music, with many pubs hosting live music sessions throughout the week.
- The county is home to the Lough Key Forest and Activity Park, which boasts stunning scenery, a treetop canopy walk, and a zip line.
- Roscommon is also home to the Kilronan Castle Hotel & Spa, a luxurious 18th-century castle that has been converted into a hotel and is a popular destination for weddings and special events.
- The town of Strokestown is home to the Irish National Famine Museum, which tells the story of the Great Famine that devastated Ireland in the 19th century.
Top Reasons Why Roscommon Should Be Your Next Destination
If you're looking for a beautiful and peaceful destination for your next vacation, Roscommon should be at the top of your list. Here are some of the top reasons to visit Roscommon:
- Natural Beauty: Roscommon is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Ireland, from the rolling hills of the countryside to the tranquil lakes and rivers.
- Rich History: From ancient ruins to historic castles, Roscommon is steeped in history and culture. The county is home to many historic sites and museums that tell the story of Ireland's past.
- Outdoor Activities: If you love the great outdoors, Roscommon is the perfect destination for you. The county offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, fishing, and golf.
- Traditional Irish Music: Roscommon is known for its vibrant music scene, with many pubs hosting live music sessions throughout the week. If you want to experience the best of traditional Irish music, Roscommon is the place to be.
- Friendly Locals: The people of Roscommon are known for their warmth and hospitality, and visitors to the county are always made to feel welcome.
Traveling to Roscommon: Your Ultimate Guide
Getting to Roscommon is easy, whether you're traveling by plane, train, or car. Here's everything you need to know about traveling to Roscommon:
- By Plane: The nearest airport to Roscommon is Ireland West Airport Knock, which is located about 45 minutes away by car. The airport serves a number of domestic and international destinations, including London, Manchester, and Edinburgh.
- By Train: Roscommon is served by a railway station on the Dublin-Sligo line, with regular services to Dublin and other major cities in Ireland.
- By Car: Roscommon is located just off the N5 and N61 roads, which connect the county to other major cities and towns in Ireland. If you're traveling from Dublin, the journey takes around two hours by car.
Unforgettable Experiences: Fun Things to Do in Roscommon
Roscommon offers a wide range of activities and attractions that are perfect for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the top things to do in Roscommon:
- Visit the Lough Key Forest and Activity Park: This stunning park offers a range of outdoor activities, including a treetop canopy walk, zip line, and boat tours of the lake.
- Explore the Roscommon Castle: This 13th-century castle is located in the heart of Roscommon town and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
- Discover the Boyle Abbey: This Cistercian monastery was founded in the 12th century and is now in ruins. Visitors can explore the remains of the abbey and learn about its history.
- Experience Traditional Irish Music: Roscommon is known for its vibrant music scene, with many pubs hosting live music sessions throughout the week. If you want to experience the best of traditional Irish music, head to one of the local pubs.
- Go Fishing: Roscommon is home to some of the best fishing spots in Ireland, with the River Shannon and Lough Ree both popular destinations for anglers.
- Relax at Kilronan Castle Hotel & Spa: This luxurious 18th-century castle has been converted into a hotel and spa, offering visitors the ultimate in relaxation and indulgence.
Book Your Roscommon Accommodation with Agoda.com
When it comes to booking your accommodation in Roscommon, Agoda.com is the best choice. Agoda.com offers a wide range of hotels and accommodations in Roscommon, from budget-friendly options to luxurious hotels and resorts. Here are some of the top hotels in Roscommon:
- Kilronan Castle Hotel & Spa: This luxurious castle hotel is located in the heart of Roscommon and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The hotel features a spa, restaurant, and bar, as well as a range of activities and amenities.
- Abbey Hotel Roscommon: This charming hotel is located in the heart of Roscommon town and offers comfortable and affordable accommodation for visitors to the county.
- Hannon's Hotel: This family-run hotel is located in the town of Roscommon and offers comfortable and affordable accommodation for visitors to the county.
- Gleeson's Restaurant & Rooms: This stylish hotel is located in the town of Roscommon and offers comfortable and modern accommodation for visitors to the county.
- Jacksons Restaurant and Accommodation: This popular restaurant and accommodation option is located in the town of Roscommon and offers comfortable and affordable accommodation for visitors to the county.
The Best Time to Visit Roscommon: A Seasonal Guide
Roscommon is a great destination to visit year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests and preferences. Here's a seasonal guide to help you plan your trip:
- Spring (March - May): Spring is a great time to visit Roscommon if you want to see the countryside come alive with flowers and greenery. The weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists than in the summer months.
- Summer (June - August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Roscommon, with warm weather and long days. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and events, but be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
- Fall (September - November): Fall is a great time to visit Roscommon if you want to enjoy the changing colors of the countryside. The weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists than in the summer months.
- Winter (December - February): Winter is the quietest time of year in Roscommon, with fewer tourists and lower prices. This is a great time to enjoy cozy pubs and indoor activities, but be prepared for cold weather and shorter days.
Expert Tips for Travelers Visiting Roscommon
If you're planning a trip to Roscommon, here are some expert tips to help you make the most of your visit:
- Rent a Car: While it's possible to explore Roscommon by public transport, renting a car will give you more flexibility and allow you to explore the countryside at your own pace.
- Pack for All Weather: The weather in Roscommon can be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to pack for all eventualities. Be prepared for rain, wind, and sun.
- Try the Local Cuisine: Roscommon is known for its delicious local cuisine, so be sure to try some of the local specialties while you're there. Some of the must-try dishes include Irish stew, boxty, and seafood chowder.
- Attend a Traditional Music Session: Roscommon is known for its vibrant music scene, so be sure to attend a traditional music session while you're there. You'll find sessions in many of the local pubs, and they're a great way to experience the local culture.
- Book Your Accommodation in Advance: Roscommon is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months, so it's a good idea to book your accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment.
Where to Stay in Roscommon: A Guide to the Best Areas
Roscommon offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts. Here's a guide to the best areas to stay in Roscommon:
- Roscommon Town: If you want to be close to the action, Roscommon town is the best place to stay. The town offers a range of accommodation options, as well as restaurants, pubs, and shops.
- Boyle: This charming town is located in the north of the county and offers a range of accommodation options, as well as historic sites and outdoor activities.
- Lough Key: If you want to be close to nature, Lough Key is the best place to stay. The area offers a range of accommodation options, as well as outdoor activities and stunning scenery.
- Athlone: While not technically in Roscommon, Athlone is located just across the border and offers a range of accommodation options, as well as restaurants, pubs, and shops.
Indulge in the Local Cuisine: What to Eat in Roscommon
Roscommon is known for its delicious local cuisine, which is hearty, filling, and perfect for a cold day. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Roscommon:
- Irish Stew: This classic dish is made with lamb, potatoes, and vegetables, and is a staple of Irish cuisine.
- Boxty: This potato pancake is a traditional Irish dish that is popular in Roscommon. It can be served with a variety of fillings, including bacon, cheese, and vegetables.
- Seafood Chowder: Roscommon is located close to the coast, so it's no surprise that seafood chowder is a popular dish in the county. The chowder is made with a variety of fresh seafood, including salmon, mussels, and prawns.
- Black Pudding: This traditional Irish sausage is made with pork blood, oats, and spices, and is a popular breakfast dish in Roscommon.
- Soda Bread: This traditional Irish bread is made with flour, buttermilk, and baking soda, and is a staple of Irish cuisine.
Getting Around Roscommon: Transportation Options for Tourists
Getting around Roscommon is easy, whether you're traveling by car, bus, or bike. Here are some of the best transportation options for tourists:
- Car Rental: Renting a car is the best way to explore Roscommon at your own pace. There are several car rental companies located in the county, and prices are reasonable.
- Bus: Bus Eireann operates a number of bus routes in Roscommon, connecting the county to other major cities and towns in Ireland. Buses are comfortable and affordable, but schedules can be limited.
- Bike Rental: If you want to explore Roscommon by bike, there are several bike rental companies located in the county. Biking is a great way to explore the countryside and get some exercise at the same time.
Overall, Roscommon is a beautiful and peaceful destination that is perfect for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture, Roscommon has something to offer everyone. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities, historic sites, or just some relaxation, Roscommon is the perfect destination for your next vacation.
