Ireland's smallest county packs in mighty legends, gorgeous seaside towns and an extraordinary amount of history.
They don't call Louth the Wee County for nothing! But while it's Ireland's smallest county, it certainly punches above its weight.
There are ancient monasteries, medieval castles, beautiful coastal villages, historic towns and mountains steeped in Irish mythology. It's also home to Carlingford, one of Ireland's most charming medieval towns, with cobbled streets, mountain views and seafood restaurants.
Whether you're chasing the legend of the Brown Bull of Cooley, exploring old abbeys or enjoying a walk by the sea, Louth has plenty to offer.
The ferry between Greenore and Greencastle in County Down is not operating in 2026, and no return date has been announced. Plan to drive around the lough via Newry instead.
The Cooley Peninsula looks across Carlingford Lough to County Down. Cross into Northern Ireland and prices change to pounds sterling (£) and speed limits to miles per hour.
One of Ireland's prettiest medieval towns, on Carlingford Lough beneath the Cooley Mountains, with narrow lanes, old tower houses and great food.
Why visit? Weekend breaks, history and food.
Walking routes with spectacular views over Carlingford Lough to the Mournes. Slieve Foy is the highest peak.
Why visit? Hiking, nature and photography.
A Norman castle guarding the lough, named after King John, who is said to have stayed here in 1210.
Why visit? Medieval history and views.
A flat, scenic walking and cycling path along the shore of Carlingford Lough between Carlingford and Omeath.
Why visit? Family cycling and lough views.
A huge portal tomb near Dundalk. Legend says if you land a pebble on top and it stays there, you'll be married within a year!
Why visit? Prehistory and a bit of fun.
A monastic site with a round tower and some of the finest high crosses in Ireland. Muiredach's Cross is covered in remarkably detailed Bible scenes.
Why visit? Archaeology and early Christian history.
Founded in 1142, Ireland's first Cistercian monastery. Its unusual octagonal lavabo still stands.
Why visit? Heritage and architecture.
A historic town on the Boyne with St Laurence's Gate, a 13th-century barbican, the Millmount Museum and Fort on its hill, and St Peter's Church, home to the shrine of St Oliver Plunkett.
Why visit? History, urban exploring and food.
A coastal village with a harbour, beach and headland walks.
Why visit? Seaside walks and photography.
A lively town with cultural attractions, good restaurants and a strong music scene.
Why visit? Culture and local history.
A historic house and gardens near Drogheda.
Why visit? Gardens and heritage.
Atmospheric Norman ruins on a rocky ridge near Dundalk.
A coastal village with a ninth-century Viking settlement site.
Quiet waterfront on the Cooley Peninsula.
A popular seaside village near Dundalk.
An attractive village near the coast.
A medieval tower house in the town centre.
A scenic headland on the coast.
A historic railway-era port village.
Our Hidden Ireland collection is where we keep the places most visitors drive straight past.
History and legend, clearly labelled.
The Táin Bó Cúailnge tells how Queen Medb of Connacht invaded Ulster to steal the Brown Bull of Cooley, so she could match her husband's wealth. It's one of the great epics of Irish mythology, and much of it is set on the Cooley Peninsula.
While the men of Ulster lay struck down by Macha's curse, the young hero Cú Chulainn defended the province alone. He's said to have been born near Dundalk, and Clochafarmore near Knockbridge is linked with his death.
In 841 the Vikings built a longphort, a fortified ship base, at Annagassan, and archaeologists have since uncovered evidence of the site.
In September 1649, Cromwell's army stormed Drogheda and killed much of the garrison along with many civilians. It's one of the darkest episodes of the Cromwellian conquest, and it's remembered as such.
Our Friday Night Frights series explores ghost stories, myths and folklore from all over Ireland.
Realistic days, each focused on one part of the county.
Places with a strong local reputation. We haven't eaten at these ourselves yet, so treat this as a starting point rather than our personal picks, and check opening hours before you set off.
Prices are in euro (€). Please check opening hours before you travel.
Prefer a guide, a ready-made tour or someone else to do the driving? These are good places to start:
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Opening times, tours and access arrangements change, so please check official websites before you travel. Useful links: Discover Ireland and Heritage Ireland.
Louth's neighbours:
Slán go fóill, and safe travels! — Nicola & Podge