Picnic Areas in Midlands

billbond4

Does anyone know of picnic areas in the Midlands?

I know of two:-
one at Coosan point in Athlone,
and the viewing point outside Ballykeeran

Saruman

Any of the lakes around Mullingar.

billbond4

do they have picnic tables?

Saruman

That would be the definition of a picnic area yes

You might have some nosy swans around Lough Ennel though looking to be fed

I would imagine Belvedere house has picnic facilities but you probably have to pay to get in first.

*edit: A quick google finds this.

billbond4

Cheers, was going to try Belvedere House yesterday alright.

Pesky Swans they can get their own picnic !

Saruman

I was sitting at a picnic table once, just reading and there was about 100 swans being fed by people in cars. Once they left, some of them came over to me and were deciding if my book was edible or not

There are also some public forests around that area that probably have some picnic tables and also try Liliput

AckwelFoley

portlick is nice to go for a picnic.. or other outdoor activities :pac:

Cpt Beefheart

Belvedere is a lovely spot and has picnic areas scattered around. No swans to deal with. If you are up for going off the beaten track, I'd highly recommend Mullaghmeen Forest

http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=53&rec_site=57&no_cache=1

At this time of year when leaves are changing it is magical there. There are benches just up to the right from the car park where you can spread out a picnic

muckety

+1 for Mullaghmeen - when you have packed up your picnic you can have a great walk in the forrest on one or more of the marked routes.
Also - try Lough Derravaragh at Gartlandstown / Crookedwood - spectacular views and peace. There are only 1 or 2 tables but its not busy (esp at this time of year).

billbond4

Cheers, will try to go there some weekend.
That coillte website is pretty useful, theres a good few woods listed on it and the maps are good as well