Unleash your inner chocolatier and immerse yourself in the world of delicious chocolate at the Chocolate Garden of Ireland
Set in beautiful northeast Carlow, the Chocolate Garden of Ireland is a working chocolate and ice cream factory offering chocolate-making sessions and workshops.
With ready-tempered chocolate at your fingertips, explore the art of creating your own chocolate figure, with choice of various shapes during their chocolate-making session. In addition to creating your very own chocolate figure you can keep the mold to take home!
Booking is open for weekend sessions throughout September, starting from €15.50 per person.
Cafe & Shop on site offers a wide array of chocolates, baked treats, artisan ice cream, delicious hot drinks. With a fun-filled play area and serene outdoor seating with views of the countryside, the perfect place to enjoy your chocolate treats. Afternoon tea available with advance booking. All chocolates are gluten free.
Visit www.chocolategarden.ie for more information
Address: The Chocolate Garden of Ireland, Rath, Tullow, Co. Carlow R93 PY82.
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Blackstairs Eco Trails presents “Beneath the Canopy,” a unique guided walking experience in collaboration with acclaimed actor Rachel Pilkington.
The talk takes place on Sunday, September 13th at their premises, in the heart of the Blackstairs Mountains and close to the village of Borris.
“Beneath the Canopy” invites participants to step away from the pace of everyday life and reconnect with nature through a mindful and immersive afternoon of walking, reflection, literature and conversation.
During the event, guests will journey around Blackstairs Eco Trails, pausing beneath native Irish trees to enjoy carefully selected readings, poetry and reflections presented by Rachel Pilkington. Themes explored throughout the walk will include nature, belonging, renewal, heritage and our connection to the natural world.
The experience is designed to encourage participants to slow down, embrace moments of stillness and reflect on the landscapes that have shaped generations of people who have lived, worked and found inspiration in the Blackstairs region.
Following the guided walk, guests will gather for afternoon tea featuring organic, homegrown artisan treats and seasonal produce, providing an opportunity to continue conversations and enjoy the hospitality for which Blackstairs Eco Trails is renowned.
Rachel Pilkington, known for her distinguished career on stage and screen, brings her passion for storytelling, literature and the arts to this special collaboration, creating an experience that blends culture, nature and wellbeing in a meaningful and memorable way.
Ticket Cost: €79
The event is open to adults of all ages and requires a moderate level of walking ability. Early booking is recommended as places are limited through Eventbrite and www.blackstairsecotrails.ie
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Carlow Autumn Walking Festival - Blackstairs Peaks
This walk offers a wonderful introduction to the landscape of the Blackstairs Mountains, taking in some of the range’s most notable landmarks, including Blackstairs Mountain (733m), the second-highest peak in the range, and the historic Caher Roe’s Den (564m). The mountain forms part of the natural boundary between Counties Carlow and Wexford and rewards walkers with magnificent views across Ireland’s south-east.
Caher Roe’s Den is steeped in local folklore. Caher Roe, a notorious highwayman often described as the Robin Hood of the Blackstairs, is said to have hidden his stolen treasure in a cave on this mountainside. Legend has it that some of his treasure remains concealed there to this day.
With its sweeping views, rugged mountain terrain and distinctive landmarks, this walk is an excellent choice for anyone wishing to experience the natural beauty and unique character of the Blackstairs Mountains.
Date: Saturday October 3rd 2026, 9am
Price: €30
Difficulty: Moderate/Hard
Length: 10.5km
Duration: 5hrs (approx.)
Terrain: Open mountain, rugged, exposed and unmarked – includes boulder fields and uneven surfaces.
For booking and further information visit: www.carlowtourism.com
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