Ballaghmore

Ballaghmore sits along the N80 in County Laois, making it a handy stop between Carlow and Portlaoise. From Dublin, take the M7 to Junction 17, then the R445 through Portlaoise before picking up the N80 east, about 80 kilometres total. The N80 gets fairly busy with local traffic running between Stradbally and Carlow. The village is worth a quick stop for its traditional pub, which still has the original stone fireplace from the 1800s and burns turf through the winter months.