County Westmeath
Westmeath is known as a county of lakes and has many legends relating to them the most famous being ‘Children of Lir.’  With rich pastureland, remarkable beauty and peatland. Abounding in rivers, lakes and streams, it is a terrain of possibilities for every visitor. 

Scattered throughout Westmeath are a number of interesting historic sites including abbeys, churches, castles and stately homes and Clonmacnoise, one of the greatest of the ancient monasteries of Ireland, lies within 30 minutes drive.  www.westmeathtourism.ie


Hill of Uisneach
The Hill of Uisneach, near Ballymore village is a ten minute drive away and one of the most historical sites close to Coolatore.  Uisneach is to Tara as the moon is to the sun. Where Tara is the home of warriors, Uisneach is the home of the mysterious druids, was the royal residence of the High Kings of Ireland and also the location of the pagan festival Bealtaine.

From the Hill of Uisneach it is said that you can see 20 of the thirty two counties in Ireland (on a clear day!). It is known as the centre of Ireland and from here the island was divided into it's provinces. Located on the side of the hill is the Cat Stone said to resemble a cat. Legend says that the Mother Goddess Erui who gave her name to the island of Ireland (Eire) is buried underneath the cat stone.

Saint Brigids Well
St. Brigid was born from Druid parents but was reared as a Christian and was known for her healing powers and for performing miracles.  A three minute drive away you can drink from the fresh waters of  St. Brigid’s Well, also a popular site for making wishes.

Lilliput Lake
Located on the shores of Lough Ennell, Lilliput  is one of the few inland facilities in Ireland to be a holder of the prestigous Blue Flag award, Lilliput is a beautiful and historic park which can cater for everybody's tastes.
www.lilliputboathire.com

Belevedere House and Gardens, Mullingar  - 18 kms away
The Belvedere story is one which is steeped in scandal and provides rich opportunities to capture the visitors imagination. The Estate comprises of 160 acres of parkland with 6kms of magnificent woodland and lakeshore walks.
The restored Belvedere House is an 18th century hunting/fishing lodge designedby the renowned German architect Richard Castle for Robert Rochfort, later the 1st Earl of Belvedere. www.belvedere-house.ie

Athlone Castle - 20 kms away
Athlone town built on the banks of the River Shannon is a major commercial midland town.  The location was of such strategic importance in the twelfth century that King John of England ordered the building of a stone castle and bridge. The Castle was built by John de Gray, Bishop of Norwich.  The Castle is now a focal point for tourism and visitors.  Town and castle worth a visit.

Moate - 8 kms away
Moate is the closest village for downing a pint, restaurants and cafes and home to Dun na Si Heritage Centre translated as the ‘fairy fortress’.  The centre includes a genealogical research centre for those interested in locating their Irish family tree. The old courthouse now serves as a museum, with over 1,000 artefacts covering the folk history of the town and the surrounding countryside since the 18th century.  The main street is regarded as one of the widest in the country.