Offaly may be off the beaten track and far from scenic seacoasts and mountains but the serenity that is present in the friendly town of Birr can help you get a real feel of what life is really like in the Midlands. Find yourself exploring the ruins of the great monastery that is Clonmacnoise or stroll through the picturesque Clara bog for a memorable walk. Obama’s visit to Moneygall back in 2011 is the reason behind the sudden popularity of this hidden gem.