Enjoyone of Kilkenny’s many breathtaking historicgardens and ancient castles. You could also make the most of some contemporaryculture at one of the county’s many annual festivals. Lower lying than much ofIreland, Kilkenny is also ideal for exploring theEmerald Isle without having to conquer staggering peaks.
HeadOut Hiking in County Kilkenny
Flatenough for easy climbing but still hilly enough to offer interestinglandscapes, why not head out on the leafy Brandon Hill Loop? This hike to CountyKilkenny’s highest peak starts and ends in the twee town of Graiguenamanagh.The route heads along woodland paths and moderate hills to the peak of BrandonHill and back again. About seven miles long, and roughly five hours of hiking,the Brandon Hill Loop nevertheless presents a good challenge.
RotheHouse in Kilkenny Town
Paya visit to the bustling and historic city of Kilkenny.Here you can see KilkennyCastle or enjoy a trip to the impressive RotheHouse and Gardens. This is Ireland’s only 17th century merchant townhouse.Built during the reign of Elizabeth I, Rothe House oozes with ancient characterand homes a museum with over 2,500 fascinating historical items. The garden, a17th century replica, is a lovely place to rest awhile.
Gardensin Kilkenny
CountyKilkenny is abundant with gardens besides those at Rothe House. Thereare breathtaking gardens on offer in Jenkinstown, Goresbridge and Paulstown –plus many more. Perhaps the best garden here, however, is Kilfane Glen in Thomastown.It’s impossible not to fall in love with this 18th century gem. Packed withwildflowers, tranquil resting spots, and with its own waterfall and stream, avisit to Kilfane Glen is like stepping into a fantasy land.
Festivalsin County Kilkenny
Packedwith craft food, tours, exhibitions and workshops, KilkennyMedieval Week is a great way to learn about the county’s heritage.However, Kilkenny Arts Festival is probably themost well-known event here. Running since 1974, the festival is a hub ofmusical delights. Gardens, churches, country houses and other venues become thestage for a range of classical and traditional music performances. You’ll evenfind Shakespeare open-air theatre, so this is definitely one to add to the itinerary.
DunmoreCave in County Kilkenny
Headunderground into Kilkenny’s prehistoric past witha visit to DunmoreCave in Ballyfoyle, where you can explore limestone chambers, formedover millions of years. These eerie caves were even the site of a Viking battle,so the history here is bloody as well as beautiful. The tour is extremelyaffordable and your guide will really bring the caves tolife.
EnjoyCounty Kilkenny
Explorethe best of Ireland with a trip to County Kilkenny.Search online and book your visit today with Expedia.
