# Carlow Tourism: Wander off the track

> With mountains, glorious countryside and river valleys all close at hand, Carlow is a county worth discovering and exploring\. Against a beautiful landscape visitors will uncover a great holiday experience an exhilarating outdoor adventure, traditional rural life, vibrant shopping and a rich cultural heritage\. Situated in the South East of Ireland, approximately 90km from the ferry and airports of Dublin, Rosslare and Waterford, Carlow is one of Ireland's most charming inland counties\. Its central location offers the perfect base to explore the surrounding counties of Wexford, Kilkenny, Wicklow, Kildare and Laois\.

Generated by Yoast SEO v28.0, this is an llms.txt file, meant for consumption by LLMs.

## Pages
- [Attractions](https://carlowtourism.com/attractions/)
- [Travel](https://carlowtourism.com/travel-services/)
- [Entente Florale European Awards Ceremony 2026](https://carlowtourism.com/ententeflorale/)
- [Columbanus Weekend](https://carlowtourism.com/columbanus-weekend/)
- [The Columban Way](https://carlowtourism.com/thecolumbanway/)

## Posts
- [Mendelssohn’s Elijah presented by Carlow Choral Society](https://carlowtourism.com/mendelssohns-elijah-presented-by-carlow-choral-society/)

## Products
- [B Walk \- Ballycrystal to Scullogue Gap \- Blackstairs Ridge Walk](https://carlowtourism.com/product/b-walk-ballycrystal-to-scullogue/): Join us for a guided walk through the Blackstairs Mountains, where you'll discover the fascinating history of the area\. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this six\-hour mountain trek offers a deep dive into the area's ancient past, revealing the many stories etched into its rugged landscape\.
- [B Walk \- South Blackstairs Ridge: Drummond to Knockmulgurry](https://carlowtourism.com/product/b-walk-drummond-to-knockmulgurry/): Running from Drummond to Knockmulgurry, this walk starts at the southern end of the Blackstairs range, before continuing northwards to Carriagalachan Gap and then downwards to Knockmulgurry, near the village of Ballymurphy\. Fabulous views of the south Blackstairs area\.
- [A Walk \- The Blackstairs Circuit](https://carlowtourism.com/product/a-walk-the-blackstairs-circuit/): This walk begins at the iconic Nine Stones Viewing Point on the Blackstairs Mountains passing over many key locations including Scullogue Gap and Blackstairs Mountain before finishing in picturesque Knockmulgurry\. Walk along old trails and paths, passing by traditional stone walls and remnants of old farmsteads\.
- [B Walk – Mount Leinster to Kildavin](https://carlowtourism.com/product/b-walk-nines-stones/): This walk begins at the well\-known viewing spot the Nine Stones, where walkers will be treated to breath\-taking views before descending towards the cattle grid on the Mountain Road\. The route then loops around Tomduff, leading up to the cairn on Slievebawn and returns to the Nine Stones vantage point\. Here, you can take in an unrivalled panorama of Carlow's rich and colourful countryside, stretching across the southeast like a vibrant tapestry\. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the distant Welsh coastline\.
- [B Walk \- Blackstairs Peaks](https://carlowtourism.com/product/b-walk-blackstairs-peaks/): This walk offers an excellent introduction to the stunning landscape of the Blackstairs Mountains, featuring some of its most prominent peaks, including Blackstairs Mountain \(733 meters\) and the historic site of Caher Roe's Den \(564 meters\)\.

## Accommodation
- [Ballykealey House](https://carlowtourism.com/accommodation/ballykealey-house/): Ballykealey House a fine palatial 18th century Gothic\- Tudor style home, set on seven acres of lush parkland close to the picturesque village of Ballon\. Nestled beneath the Blackstairs Mountains it offers guests a rural retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life\.
- [Huntington Castle Bed and Breakfast](https://carlowtourism.com/accommodation/huntington-castle-bed-and-breakfast/): A destination of effortless relaxation, outstanding beauty and fascinating history\. If you are looking for somewhere to stay with a difference, then Huntington Castle, a genuine 17th century castle offers some very interesting options\. 
- [Woodford Dolmen Hotel](https://carlowtourism.com/accommodation/woodford-dolmen-hotel/): Idyllic views of the Killeshin Hills and the River Barrow surround the tranquil countryside setting of the Woodford Dolmen Hotel\.
- [Sandbrook House](https://carlowtourism.com/accommodation/sandbrook-house/): Sandbrook House and Gardens is a period Queen Anne style house set in twenty five acres of lush parkland in County Carlow\.
- [Dinn Rí Hotel](https://carlowtourism.com/accommodation/dinn-ri-hotel/): The Dinn Rí Hotel, located in the very centre of Carlow town, offers boutique bedrooms, each with an en\-suite bathroom\. Dinn Rí Hotel guests can also enjoy satellite TV, complimentary toiletries, hair dryer and usual hotel amenities\. The hotel is central to the town’s best restaurants, pubs and shops, all literally located on your doorstep\.

## Attractions
- [Made in Carlow](https://carlowtourism.com/attraction/made-in-carlow/): 'Made in Carlow' art gallery is situated in the heart of Carlow Town and represents over 100 local and regional artists\. Made In Carlow gallery is located downstairs at Haddens shop on Tullow Street, creating a sense of community\. "Made in Carlow" brand is recognised and regarded as a high quality art gallery\.
- [Altamont Plants and Walled Garden](https://carlowtourism.com/attraction/altamont-plant-sales-and-walled-garden/): If you long for the classic charm of a cottage garden, complete with its ambience, fragrances and all the nostalgic elements, Altamont Plants is your destination\. Here, amidst a delightful array of old\-fashioned roses, powering delphiniums and vibrant and vibrant peonies, expert guidance awaits\.
- [St\. Laserian's Cathedral](https://carlowtourism.com/attraction/stlaserianscathedral/): A 13th century gem which nestles in the village of Old Leighlin \(Leath gleann – half\-glen\)\. The original monastic settlement dates from the 7th century and its peak had a community of 1,500 monks\. A synod held here in 630 A\.D\. was decisive in reconciling the date of Easter for the Irish church\. 
- [Shankill Castle and Gardens](https://carlowtourism.com/attraction/shankill-castle/): Discover history, nature, art and farm\-to\-fork dining on a day out to Shankill Castle\. Shankill Castle was first built as a Butler tower house beside the ruins of an old church\.
- [Leighlinbridge](https://carlowtourism.com/attraction/leighlinbridge/): The development of Leighlinbridge village was greatly influenced through its historic importance as a transport route\. Over 300 years before the Christian era, a great battle took place here to capture the fort of Dinn Righ, reputedly the ancient seat of the Kings of Leinster\. The focal point of Leighlinbridge is its valerian bearded bridge, built in 1320 by Maurice Jakis, Canon of Kildare Cathedral\. It remains today one of the oldest functioning bridges in Europe\.

## Food and Drink
- [Waterlilies Carlow](https://carlowtourism.com/food-drink/waterlilies-carlow-carlow-restaurant-week-sunday-2nd-november-2025/): Artisan bakery specialising in sourdough bread and pastries in the centre of Carlow Town\. Also serving speciality coffee and tea as well as delicious vegetarian breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch options\. Proud to source and serve organic, seasonal and homemade dishes, as well as biodynamic wine and beer\. Caring about quality coffee and the customer's experience
- [Waterlilies Tullow](https://carlowtourism.com/food-drink/waterlilies-tullow/): Sister location of Waterlilies on Tullow Street, Carlow\. A neighbourhood café serving speciality coffee and freshly baked sourdough bread and pastries\.
- [Lisnavagh House](https://carlowtourism.com/food-drink/lisnavagh-house/): Introducing the new Veg Box Scheme straight from the Lisnavagh Walled Garden under the direction of permaculture expert and market gardener, Andrew Jordan\.
- [Coffee J\.A\.R](https://carlowtourism.com/food-drink/coffee-j-a-r/): If you are looking to enjoy the weather this Summer, there is no better place to come visit than the newly opened "Coffee J\.A\.R" at Clashganny House\.
- [The Forge Restaurant and Bakehouse](https://carlowtourism.com/food-drink/the-forge-restaurant-and-bakehouse/): Welcome to The Forge, where 300 years of history meet modern culinary passion\. Originally built in the 1700s as a steward’s house for the Keogh Estate, this building has lived many lives—as a forge, a local shop, and even a post office\. Today, thanks to a careful restoration that preserved its original flagstone floors and sash windows, the soul of the past remains\.

## Outdoor Activities
- [Oak Park Forest Park](https://carlowtourism.com/outdoor-activities/oak-park-forest-park-2/): Oak Park forest Park is a mature, mixed species woodland of over 120 acres with a predominance of beech, oak, scots pine, silver fir, larch and sycamore\. Boasting a rich diversity of wildlife, the lakes and their surrounds provide a habitat for swans and ducks, while the islands shelter many wild and game birds\. Extending over four kilometres the walks include Butlers Wood Loop \(700 metres\), the Lake Path \(800 metres\), Fox Covert Track \(1,100 metres\) and Sally Island Trail \(1,100 metres\)\.
- [Southern County Fishing Resort](https://carlowtourism.com/outdoor-activities/southern-county-fishing-resort-2/): Southern County Fishing Resort, a peaceful countryside escape for fishing, relaxation and adventure\. Discover the tranquility of Southern County Fishing Resort, a beautiful retreat nestled in the heart of County Carlow, where nature, relaxation and outdoor experiences come together\.
- [Heron Sauna](https://carlowtourism.com/outdoor-activities/heron-sauna/): Whether you’re looking to unwind after a busy day or enhance your wellness routine, the benefits of sauna use are undeniable\. The heat promotes relaxation, helps to detoxify the body by opening pores, and encourages better circulation, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated\. Regular sauna sessions can also improve skin health, relieve stress, ease muscle tension, and improve sleep quality\.
- [Sol Sauna](https://carlowtourism.com/outdoor-activities/sol-sauna/): Sol Sauna is a unique wellness destination in County Carlow, offering visitors the opportunity to slow down, reconnect and recharge through the restorative benefits of heat and cold therapy\. Visitors can enjoy individual sessions, private group bookings and special events throughout the year\. Conveniently located and open to both locals and tourists, Sol Sauna offers a refreshing way to experience County Carlow while prioritising health, balance and self\-care\.Discover the benefits of sauna culture and cold\-water immersion, and leave feeling refreshed, revitalised and restored\.
- [Borris Golf Club](https://carlowtourism.com/outdoor-activities/borris-golf-club/): Established in 1907, Borris Golf Club is one of the oldest clubs in Ireland and this is reflected in its mature parkland course\. The breath\-taking scenery of the surrounding countryside combined with the strategic design of the course, ensure that all who visit, always return\! Spectacular views of Borris House, Mount Leinster and the famous Borris Viaduct\.

## Travel Services
- [Glynn's Coaches \& Bus Hire](https://carlowtourism.com/travel/glynns-coaches-bus-hire/): Glynn’s Coaches \& Bus Hire, is a family run business, based in Fenagh, Co\. Carlow\. They cater for all occasions and have a fleet range of 8, 16, 32 and 53 seater buses/coaches with full facilities\.
- [Barrow Bus](https://carlowtourism.com/travel/barrow-bus/): For the summer, Barrow Bus will make it possible for people all over the country to access the amenities of Ireland’s second biggest river by train and bus\. The Barrow Bus route will run from Bagenalstown \(Muine Bheag\) train station in Co\. Carlow through the scenic East Kilkenny villages of Paulstown, Goresbridge, Skeoughvosteen and Graiguenamanagh\. Some services will extend further to St\. Mullins in Co\. Carlow before making the return journey\.
You’ve Got Places To Be
Shops \& Services \- Buses \& Trains \- Nature \& Adventure
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Summer/Autumn 2026
Book in advance to avoid disappointment
- ['TFI Local Link Carlow Kilkenny Wicklow'](https://carlowtourism.com/travel/tfi-local-link-carlow-kilkenny-wicklow/): 'TFI Local Link Carlow Kilkenny Wicklow' offer the opportunity to discover rural Carlow which is not always served by public bus transport\. Their services provide a vital connection to the county’s picturesque villages, historic sites and beautiful countryside\. 
- [Bus Éireann](https://carlowtourism.com/travel/access-to-carlow-bus-eireann/): Expressway, Bus Éireann’s premium coach service, provides direct and regular services on over 15 routes throughout Ireland\.
- [Pat Durkin Taxi](https://carlowtourism.com/travel/pat-durkin-taxi/): If you wish to book a personalised tour for yourself, your family or a group of friends, look no further than Pat Durkin Taxi\. Enjoy all that the surrounding area has to offer and relax as you enjoy your tour\. 

## Venues
- [Carpenter's Bar Lounge and Restaurant](https://carlowtourism.com/venue/carpenters-bar-lounge-and-restaurant/)
- [Tully's Bar](https://carlowtourism.com/venue/tullys-bar-2/)
- [Altamont Plants \& Walled Garden](https://carlowtourism.com/venue/altamont-plants-walled-garden/): Tullow, Co\. Carlow\<br /\>
t: \+353 \(0\)87 982 2135 e: \<a href="mailto:sales@altamontplants\.com"\>sales@altamontplants\.com\</a\>
- [Ballycrystal](https://carlowtourism.com/venue/ballycrystal/)
- [Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa \& Golf Resort](https://carlowtourism.com/venue/mount-wolseley-hotel/)

## Events
- [Annual Classic Car Show at Duckett’s Grove](https://carlowtourism.com/event/annual-classic-car-show-at-ducketts-grove/): The Carlow Vintage and Classic Motor Club Annual Show returns to Duckett’s Grove, Carlow on 8th and 9th August 2026\. 
- [Carlow BEO](https://carlowtourism.com/event/carlow-beo/): Carlow Beo\! CONTINUES THIS AUGUST
- [Féile Vegan 2026](https://carlowtourism.com/event/feile-vegan-2026/): Ireland's only vegan music festival with talks, food, live acts and workshops\. All with an eco\-friendly and inclusive community ethos\. 
- [August Food Tasting Weekend at the Step House Hotel](https://carlowtourism.com/event/august-food-tasting-weekend-at-the-step-house-hotel/): The Step House Hotel are delighted to be hosting their August tasting evening on the 21st of August at 7\.30pm\.
- [Ceolmhar at Tully's Bar Carlow](https://carlowtourism.com/event/ceolmhar-at-tullys-bar-carlow/): Ceolmhar at Tully's Bar Carlow

## Popups
- [Walking Pop Up](https://carlowtourism.com/?post_type=popup&p=571402)
- [Carlow Tourism Membership](https://carlowtourism.com/?post_type=popup&p=567260)
- [Carlow  Food Trail](https://carlowtourism.com/?post_type=popup&p=567255)
- [Mount Leinster Heritage Drive](https://carlowtourism.com/?post_type=popup&p=567253)
- [The Columban Way](https://carlowtourism.com/?post_type=popup&p=567252)

## Popup Themes
- [Enterprise Blue](https://carlowtourism.com/?post_type=popup_theme&p=567227)
- [Hello Box](https://carlowtourism.com/?post_type=popup_theme&p=567228)
- [Cutting Edge](https://carlowtourism.com/?post_type=popup_theme&p=567229)
- [Framed Border](https://carlowtourism.com/?post_type=popup_theme&p=567230)
- [Floating Bar \- Soft Blue](https://carlowtourism.com/?post_type=popup_theme&p=567231)

## Categories
- [QR](https://carlowtourism.com/category/qr/)
- [Blog](https://carlowtourism.com/category/blog/)
- [Maps](https://carlowtourism.com/category/maps/)

## Product categories
- [Walking Festival](https://carlowtourism.com/product-category/walking-festival/)
- [B walk](https://carlowtourism.com/product-category/b-walk/)
- [C walk](https://carlowtourism.com/product-category/c-walk/)
- [A walk](https://carlowtourism.com/product-category/a-walk-very-experienced-hillwalkers/)

## Categories
- [Special Accommodation Offers](https://carlowtourism.com/accommodation-category/special-accommodation-offers/)
- [Self\-Catering](https://carlowtourism.com/accommodation-category/self-catering/)
- [Hotels](https://carlowtourism.com/accommodation-category/hotels/)
- [Bed \& Breakfast](https://carlowtourism.com/accommodation-category/bed-breakfast/)
- [Historic Houses](https://carlowtourism.com/accommodation-category/historic-houses/)

## Categories
- [Towns \& Villages](https://carlowtourism.com/attraction-category/towns-villages/)
- [Gardens](https://carlowtourism.com/attraction-category/gardens/)
- [Historic Sites](https://carlowtourism.com/attraction-category/historic-sites/)
- [Heritage](https://carlowtourism.com/attraction-category/heritage/)
- [Museums, Art Collections and Galleries](https://carlowtourism.com/attraction-category/art-collections-galleries/)

## Categories
- [Restaurants](https://carlowtourism.com/food-drink-category/restaurants/)
- [Pubs](https://carlowtourism.com/food-drink-category/pubs/)
- [Cafes](https://carlowtourism.com/food-drink-category/cafes/)
- [Carlow Food Network](https://carlowtourism.com/food-drink-category/carlow-food-network/)
- [Food Producers](https://carlowtourism.com/food-drink-category/food-producers/)

## Categories
- [Walking](https://carlowtourism.com/activity-category/walking/)
- [Looped Walks](https://carlowtourism.com/activity-category/looped-walks/)
- [Canoeing](https://carlowtourism.com/activity-category/canoeing/)
- [Golfing](https://carlowtourism.com/activity-category/golfing/)
- [Cycling](https://carlowtourism.com/activity-category/cycling/)

## Categories
- [Taxi \& Bus/Coach Hire](https://carlowtourism.com/travel-category/taxi-bus-coach-hire-car-rental/)
- [Bus](https://carlowtourism.com/travel-category/bus/)
- [Tour Guides](https://carlowtourism.com/travel-category/tour-guides/)
- [Rail](https://carlowtourism.com/travel-category/rail/)

## Event Categories
- [Events calendar](https://carlowtourism.com/events/category/events-calendar/)
- [All upcoming events](https://carlowtourism.com/events/category/all-upcoming-events/)
- [Christmas in Carlow 2025](https://carlowtourism.com/events/category/christmas-in-carlow-2025/)
- [Snowdrop month](https://carlowtourism.com/events/category/snowdrop-month/)
- [Carlow Walking Festivals](https://carlowtourism.com/events/category/carlow-walking-festivals/)

## Optional
- [Sitemap index](https://carlowtourism.com/sitemap_index.xml)