Locatedjust an hour’s drive from Dublin, but a million miles away in temperament, therefreshing tranquillity of Virginia can be enjoyedamongst some of Ireland’s most unspoilt terrain. Nestled on the north shores ofthe beautiful Lough Ramor – the region’s largestlake – Virginia is the perfect spot for a fishingholiday or just a remote countryside getaway.
Undoubtedlyone of rural Ireland’s quaintest towns, Virginiamay be small, but it definitely doesn’t disappoint. With an ample number ofhotels and restaurants, a selection of annual festivals, a golf course and atheatre, this quiet location in CountyCavan still has plenty going on for the visitor seeking to experiencethe pace of life that is unique to rural Ireland.
DiscoverVirginia’s History
Foundedin 1612 and named in honour of the Virgin Queen, Elizabeth I, Virginiainitially began life as an Ulster plantation project. For many years, the townhad a population of just a few hundred people. It wasn’t until the early 19thcentury when trading began here that Virginia startedto grow.
Eventoday, though, Virginia remains comparatively small,with little more than 4,000 residents. It is now a popular farming town, knownfor producing the cream used in the world-famous Baileys Irish Cream liqueur.
GetOut on Virginia’s Lough Ramor
Youcan’t miss Lough Ramor, the region’s largest andmost striking lake, as the town is situated directly on its shores. With animpressive population of fish, angling is a popular way to pass the time here.
Thelake’s campsite offers boat hire, so you can take a boat out on the water and,in the summer months, it’s not unheard of to take a dip and swim out to one ofthe many untouched islands that scatter the lake’s refreshing waters.
Takea Turn Around Virginia’s Deer Park
Locatedon the outskirts of the town, Virginia’s Deer Park Forestmakes for an ambient ramble. With a winding path that weaves between ancientoaks, elms, and larch trees it really is a magical walk, with the waters of thelake appearing ghostlike through the foliage. The park has a broad selection ofwildlife, making it especially popular with bird watchers.
Cultureand Nightlife
WhatVirginia has to offer is compact but vibrant nevertheless.The residents here are proud of their town, which is apparent in the tenderhospitality you will receive in every pub and restaurant you enter.
TheRamor Theatre, situated south of the centre in arecently refurbished Catholic Church, also provides a regular schedule of artsand music performances, including local community theatre.
Festivalsin Virginia
Virginiais home to not one, not two, but three annualfestivals. There is the Virginia Agricultural Show, the autumn Pumpkin Festivalat Halloween and also an annual summer fete. All promote local arts and culturein their own inimitable way, ensuring that Virginiaalways provides a quintessential rural town experience.
Book a Trip to Virginia Today
Virginia is a naturelover’s getaway, offering a refreshingly slow pace of life but plenty tostimulate nonetheless. With its warm hospitality, and an enthusiastic welcomeguaranteed, you’ll feel right at home here in no time at all. Book your trip withExpedia today.
