Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands: The Quiet Beauty That Stays With You

By Adrian Furlong, Owner & Driver, Executive Express

Where Time Slows Down and Stories Come Alive

When most people picture Ireland, they think of soaring cliffs or crashing waves – but there’s another side of this island that whispers instead of roars.

Welcome to Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands – the calm, green soul of the country. It’s a place where winding rivers reflect ancient ruins, where country roads lead to friendly pubs and farm gates, and where the pace of life invites you to breathe a little deeper.

For me, this is Ireland at its most honest – and it’s a joy to share it with travellers looking to connect with something real.

What Are the Hidden Heartlands?

Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands stretch from Leitrim down through Roscommon, Longford, Offaly, Westmeath, and into the Shannon River basin. It’s a region less visited by tour buses, but full of quiet wonder. Here, nature and heritage walk hand in hand.

If you’ve ever wanted to:

• Trace your family’s roots through rural parishes

• Wander castle ruins without crowds

• Float down the River Shannon with only birdsong for company

• Experience traditional Ireland in its raw, unfiltered form…

…then the Hidden Heartlands are waiting.

Highlights Along the Way

Here are a few favourite stops I love to share with guests:

Lough Key Forest Park (Roscommon) A fairytale woodland with ancient trees, lakeside views, castle ruins, and a canopy walk through the treetops. Great for families or anyone who loves the outdoors.

Clonmacnoise Monastic Site (Offaly) A 6th-century monastery right on the banks of the Shannon. Weathered Celtic crosses, round towers, and a view that hasn’t changed in centuries.

River Shannon Cruise Stopovers From quaint harbours in Athlone to riverside pubs in Banagher, we follow the flow of Ireland’s longest river – slow and steady, like a living thread of history.

Village Hospitality in Ballinahown & Abbeyshrule Two tiny gems where you’re likely to meet more locals than tourists. Expect home baking, strong tea, and warm conversations.

A Place for Reflection and Reconnection

So many guests who come here say the same thing: “This is the Ireland my grandparents talked about.” It’s not just a place – it’s a feeling.

If you’re traveling to reconnect with your roots or to slow down and experience the Ireland most visitors miss, this is where you’ll find it.

Why Travel with Executive Express?

With me as your guide, you’ll get more than a route – you’ll get the stories, songs, and spirit of these places. Your tour is tailored to you:

• Heritage-based itineraries with access to local archives and ancestral sites

• Relaxed pacing with time for walks, photos, and spontaneous discoveries

• Luxury private vehicle so you can enjoy the journey in comfort and style

• Local insight from someone who knows the roads – and the roads less travelled

Let’s Discover Ireland’s Quiet Soul

If your heart’s longing for something deeper than landmarks, the Hidden Heartlands might just be your favourite part of Ireland.

Contact me today to start planning your custom tour through Ireland’s green heart.

See you off the beaten track,

Adrian

Executive Express – Private Irish Heritage Tours From one storyteller to another, welcome home.