Spooktacular Mid Term Breaks
Mid-Term Breaks close to the Birthplace of Halloween - if you dare!
As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin to turn, Carrick-on-Shannon becomes an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy a break over the October mid-term break. With plenty of outdoor activities for all to enjoy, here are some suggestions to make the most of your family trip, including a spooky adventure to Rathcroghan, the birthplace of Halloween.
A Day Trip to Rathcroghan:
The Birthplace of Halloween No Halloween-themed trip would be complete without a visit to Rathcroghan, an ancient and mystical site, a 25 minute drive from Carrick-on-Shannon. This will be a great one for the kids to impress their pals with, when they are back to school!
Known as the birthplace of Halloween, Rathcroghan (Ráth Cruachan) is a significant archaeological site, strongly associated with Irish mythology. If you think this might be fun, check out their website here https://www.rathcroghan.ie/tours-events/halloween-at-rathcroghan/ or call theVisitor Centre at (071) 963 9268.
Exploring Rathcroghan Once the ancient royal seat of Connacht and featuring prominently in Irish legends, particularly the epic tale of Queen Medb and the Táin Bó Cúailnge (Cattle Raid of Cooley), the site at Rathcroghan includes over 240 identified archaeological sites, including ring forts, burial mounds, and standing stones.
Highlights of your visit:
- Oweynagat (Cave of the Cats):
The "Gateway to the Otherworld," this cave is believed to be the entrance to the realm of the spirits and a key location in the origins of Halloween. According to legend, it was from this cave that mythical creatures and spirits would emerge at Halloween.
- Rathcroghan Mound:
Thought to be the ancient inauguration site of the Connacht kings and with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, this is the focal point for understanding the region's historical significance.
- Visitor Centre:
The Rathcroghan Visitor Centre provides educational exhibits, guided tours, and interactive displays bringing the history and mythology to life. The centre provides an excellent starting point for families to learn about the significance of Samhain and its transformation into Halloween, as we know it now.
Link to Halloween
Samhain, the ancient Celtic festival that marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter, is the precursor to modern Halloween. Celebrated on October 31st, it was believed that the veil between the living and the dead was at its thinnest, allowing spirits to cross over into the mortal world. Many traditions associated with Samhain, such as wearing costumes and lighting bonfires, have evolved into the Halloween customs we know today.
An exciting addition to the Rathcroghan story is the recent inclusion on the World Heritage Tentative List as part of the Royal Sites of Ireland complex. Perhaps in time to come Rathcroghan will be listed as a World Heritage site, which is very exciting indeed for the region.
Lough Key Forest Park
Just a short drive away, this park offers a range of exciting activities including treetop walks, zip-lining, and hours of walking along a choice of beautiful nature trails. A woodland walk at this time of the year is perfect for clearing the cobwebs, as the low autumn sun casts soft, golden light through the trees. It’s quieter here at this time, and the kids can keep an eye out for wildlife, including the red squirrel gathering the last of the acorns before winter fully settles in. Deer are common in the area, and you may be lucky to witness a brief appearance!
Lough Spoo-Key
Each year the annual Spooktacular Halloween fest takes place at Lough Spoo-Key. This year the festival will run from Thursday 28th October until Sunday 3rd November. With plenty of indoor and outdoor Halloween activities including face-painting, fancy dress disco, puppet shows, halloween treasure trail and for the older kids (10yrs+) - the spine-chilling Tunnels of Terror (booking required)!!!
It promises to be lots of fun! More details can be found on Lough key Forest and Activity Park social media, booking may be required, so check it out today! https://www.facebook.com/loughkeyforestpark
Walking Trails
The walking trails in Lough Key are well marked with lots to see as you stroll through this beautifully maintained park. You may spot what remains of Rockingham House; just the footprint is visible now and dotted around the park, are remnants of the House such as segments of the columns that once held up the front portico.The history of this once magnificent house adds a sense of adventure for families, especially for children with vivid imaginations. There are bog walks, an ancient fairy bridge, an ice house, magnificent giant trees and a castle on an island!!
During the walk, you'll come across giant trees, some that you can enter and explore - a favourite choice for a game of ‘hide-and-go-seek’ with the smallies. There are openings in the canopy of trees that provide stunning views of Lough Key itself which at this time of the year is often cloaked in morning mist, giving it a mysterious appearance.
Top Tips for the Walk:
- Dress warmly: Layers are key, as it can get chilly in the winter months.
- Footwear: Waterproof boots are recommended, as the trails may be damp or slightly muddy after rainfall or frost.
- Binoculars: Handy for spotting birds or perhaps a Ghost or Ghoul!!
Enjoy a Hauntingly Good Getaway this October Mid Term.
Carrick on Shannon is easy to get to by road or rail, Carrick Plaza Suites offers free private parking to our guests and you'll find us just off the N4 right across from the River Shannon, in the heart of town.
And don't forget - Best rates guaranteed when you book direct!
Contact
Adresse
Carrick Plaza Suites,
Mercantile Plaza,
Bridge Street,
Carrick-On-Shannon,
Co. Leitrim
N41 WA27
Téléphone
0719616266
