Expressway Route 22 Dublin – Ballina

The bright lights, culture and heritage of Dublin, entwine with the rolling hills of County Westmeath, the Liffey Valley, and River Camlin, as well as the vibrant town of Ballina in a journey that brings out the very best in Irish life, brought to folk in the comfort and relaxation of Expressway. The coach makes its way out of Dublin, along the Liffey and through Mullingar, it goes – a fascinating market town known for its lively pubs, quaint streets, and beautiful parks. Next up is Ballinalack, a small village surrounded by rolling hills and field, as well as the picturesque St. Mary’s church. Next is Rathowen, a pretty village with historic buildings and beautiful gardens. Here, you can visit the local museum, explore the village's historic streets, and admire the surrounding countryside. Then it’s along the River Camlin and Longford, a bustling town close to Longford Castle and the Longford Heritage Centre. Tarmonbarry beckons with its beautiful church and countryside and Strokestown, close to the Strokestown Park House and Gardens. Rolling fields of Tulsk are traversed and Ballingare before arriving in Ballina, a bustling town that is known for its beautiful parks, charming streets, and vibrant cultural scene, showcasing the very best of Ireland’s magnificent west coast.

This is a journey that can be enjoyed with exploration at Dublin or Ballina at both ends and maybe with a stop-off en route or possibly over a couple of days.

The journey begins in Dublin, the iconic, bustling city, rich in history and culture. While in Dublin, you can visit some of the city's famous attractions such as the Trinity College Library, St. Patrick's Cathedral, and the Guinness Storehouse.

Next up is Maynooth, a charming town that is home to the famous Maynooth University and St. Patrick's College. Here, you can visit the university's beautiful campus, explore the town's historic streets, and sample some of the local cuisine.

Liffey Valley is a great place for a stop-off or overnight base. There’s the great shopping centre, including a mix of high street and designer brands. If you're a fan of Irish and international films, the Irish Film Institute is a 'must-visit'. It features a state-of-the-art cinema, a library, and a cafe, making it the perfect place to spend a few hours. The beautiful Japanese-style garden is highly recommended and is a peaceful oasis featuring a traditional tea garden, a koi pond, and a Zen rock garden, making it a great place to unwind and relax. Liffey Linear Park is a scenic walkway that runs alongside the River Liffey and is a popular destination for walkers and cyclists. The park is populated with benches, picnic areas, and scenic viewpoints, making it a great place to relax and take in the views. There’s also the Liffey Valley Adventure Centre which is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities such as rock climbing, abseiling, and kayaking. It's a great place to experience the thrill of adventure and challenge yourself.

Charlestown is worth stopping off at and a visit to St. James' Church, known for its beautiful Gothic-style architecture and rich history. The Charlestown Heritage Centre is also highly recommended and features exhibits and displays on the local area, including its history, culture, and traditions. The Mall is a scenic walkway that runs along the River Bonet and is a popular destination for walkers and cyclists. The walkway is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parks, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the views. Just outside Charlestown is Lough Talt - a stunning lake that is surrounded by beautiful countryside and is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and water sports.

Finally, it’s back on-board and to Ballina, where some top places to visit include the St. Muredach's Cathedral, the Moy River, the Belleek Woods Nature Reserve, and the Ballina Salmon Festival. The town is also home to several museums and galleries, showcasing the area's rich history and artistic tradition.