Laois is an inland county located in the rural tranquility of the Irish midlands. Forming part of Ireland’s great central plain, its landscape is largely flat, although the Slieve Bloom Mountains in the north west are one of its dominant natural features, making it a landscape of stunning contrasts that attracts countless visitors every year.

Its diverse landscape has made it a favoured destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all descriptions. The Slieve Bloom Mountains, from which it is possible to see the highest points in all of Ireland’s four provinces, with its multitude of glens, rocky out-crops and romantic waterfalls are particularly popular with walkers and hikers.

Heritage trails are also popular in Laois, given the county’s long history. The Rock of Dunamase is one of the most spectacular ancient fortifications in all of Ireland, while the county is also home to many country estates of later architectural significance. The towns and villages with which Quaker and Huguenot refugees are associated are also worth visiting.

While today it is called County Laois, it only came to be known so in the 1920’s following the Irish Wars of Independence, having formerly been called Queen’s County after Mary I. The county was settled by English settlers twice during its history in the 16th and 17th centuries. The county of town of Portlaoise was also renamed in the 1920s, having previously been called the Fort of Maryborough. The town has retained many features of its history as a garrison, including the old jail which has been transformed into a multi-purpose arts centre. Portarlington boasts a similar charm, and is also worth visiting during a trip to County Laois.

By far County Laois’s greatest appeal is in its stunning natural beauty, with its stark contrast between mountains and gentle, rolling hills, making for some of the most majestic vistas to be found anywhere in Ireland.