Trip Planner:   Europe  /  Ireland  /  Province of Leinster  /  County Laois  /  Portlaoise  /  Rock of Dunamase

Rock of Dunamase, Portlaoise

4.7

#1 of 15 in Things to do in Portlaoise

Geologic Formation Nature / Park Must See

• ©
• ©
• ©
• © +9

Storm the castle at Rock of Dunamase, a fortress dating back to the 12th century and once pillaged by Vikings. The rock itself stands above a flat plain, which holds the castle ruins and offers picturesque views of the countryside. The structure has passed through many hands, including the Normans and local Irish lords, and local tradition says it was besieged and blown up by the Cromwellian generals in 1651. While there are no records of these events, it is probably the best explanation for the ruins you can explore today. Take care when navigating the castle, as some parts can be dangerous. Add Rock of Dunamase to your Portlaoise travel itinerary, and discover new vacation ideas by using our Portlaoise trip planning tool .

more less

Create an itinerary including Rock of Dunamase

Start planning

Unable to display map at this time. Please try again later.

© OpenMapTiles © OpenStreetMap contributors

Rock of Dunamase Reviews

Rate this attraction

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

464 reviews

Google

4.7

facebook

4.9

511 likes

• By swtraveler15

  When driving up the back country road to the Rock of Dunamase, I was a little underwhelmed as there appeared to be little to see. That was until we drove around to the front of the site and everything...  more »

• By StanOh

  The Rock of Dunamase is a beautiful remains of a very old castle with beautiful view from all directions. The walk up can be difficult so I used a hiking stick to get around. There is no cost to get i...  more »

View more on TripAdvisor »

Google

• By Darek S

  Wonderful place! If you fond of old ruins rarely visited by people you will find the place lovely. You can almost hear the swords clashing and armors shattering. The description of the site is poor. Would come handy if someone would spare a coin to prepare a proper storyline or a larger history of the site.

  more less
• By Brendan Fitzsimons

  Very nice site. Easy to get around but bring good footwear . Lots of paths but finished in loose stone and quiet steep in places. However still very interesting.

  more less

View more on Google »

Places to stay near Rock of Dunamase

Plan your trip to Portlaoise

• Get a personalized plan

  A complete day-by-day itinerary
  based on your preferences

• Customize it

  Refine your plan. We'll find the
  best routes and schedules

• Book it

  Choose from the best hotels
  and activities. Up to 50% off

• Manage it

  Everything in one place.
  Everyone on the same page.