County Carlow Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do and see, where to eat and stay, local culture, and transportation options in County Carlow, Ireland.


Introduction to County Carlow

County Carlow is a small and charming county nestled in the southeast of Ireland, bordered by counties Kilkenny, Wexford, and Wicklow. The county is steeped in history, with numerous prehistoric, medieval sites and a rich heritage. While it’s not as renowned as other counties, County Carlow boasts stunning landscapes, world-class natural resources, and exciting cultural events.

List of Places to Visit in County Carlow

There are plenty of attractions in County Carlow that cater to all tastes and interests. Here, we have compiled a comprehensive list of some must-visit places in the county:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Carlow County Museum
  • Brownshill Dolmen
  • Carlow Castle
  • Visual Carlow
  • Borris House

Natural Attractions of County Carlow: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Leinster
  • Blackstairs Mountain
  • River Barrow
  • Altamont Gardens
  • Oak Park Forest Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of County Carlow

Outdoor enthusiasts will be delighted to know that County Carlow boasts some of the best hiking and biking routes in Ireland. Here’s a list of the must-do routes for thrill-seekers:

  • The South Leinster Way
  • Wicklow Way
  • St. Mullin’s Trail
  • Nore Valley Walk
  • The Barrow Way

Best Things to Do in County Carlow: Activities and Tours

From adventure enthusiasts to history buffs, there is no shortage of things to do in County Carlow. Here are some of the best activities and tours you can experience:

  • Tullow Museum & Heritage Trail
  • Carlow Farmers’ Market & Guided Culinary Tour
  • The Ballykeenan Pet Farm
  • Delta Sensory Gardens
  • Carlow Brewing Company Tour

Week-Long Itinerary for County Carlow

Here’s a sample itinerary for those who plan to spend a week in County Carlow:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Brownshill Dolmen and Carlow County Museum. Spend the evening in Carlow Castle.
Day 2 Go hiking on Mount Leinster and Blackstairs Mountain.
Day 3 Check out the Altamont Gardens and have a picnic by River Barrow.
Day 4 Go on a guided culinary tour, visit Tullow Museum and head over to The Ballykeenan Pet Farm.
Day 5 Take a stroll around the Delta Sensory Gardens before going on a Carlow Brewing Company Tour.
Day 6 Explore Wicklow Way and St. Mullin’s Trail.
Day 7 Relax in Oak Park Forest Park or go on a bike ride along The Barrow Way.

Food and Drink Scene of County Carlow

County Carlow is home to a burgeoning food and drink scene, thanks to the abundance of locally-sourced produce and excellent artisanal producers.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Carlow potato cakes
  • Black pudding
  • Irish stew
  • Soda bread
  • Seafood Chowder

Local Beverages

  • Carlow Brewing Company
  • O’Hara’s Irish Craft Beer
  • Zalacious coffee

Where to Stay in County Carlow: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

County Carlow has a broad range of accommodations that cater to all budgets and tastes. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  • The Lord Bagenal Inn
  • Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort
  • Killerig Resort Hotel
  • Seven Oaks Hotel
  • Dolmen Hotel Carlow

What to Buy in County Carlow: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for souvenirs or gifts to bring back home? Here are some local products and souvenirs you can buy:

  • Carlow Brewing Company beer
  • Zalacious coffee
  • Carlow Honey
  • Handcrafted pottery from Borris village
  • Freshly baked brown bread

Local Culture and Customs of County Carlow

County Carlow is steeped in local traditions, culture and customs. The county has a rich heritage and deep-rooted history. The people are friendly, and visitors can expect to be welcomed warmly.

Best Time to Visit County Carlow

County Carlow is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is in the summer months, from June to September, when temperatures are mild and days are longer. Outdoor activities are more enjoyable during these months.

Do’s and Don’ts of County Carlow

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Take time to explore the countryside and appreciate the beautiful landscapes.
  • Try the locally sourced produce and beer.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage historical monuments and sites.
  • Disrespect locals or use foul language in public areas.
  • Drink and drive.

Safety and Health

Safety in County Carlow

County Carlow is a safe destination. Still, visitors should take the necessary precautions, such as locking cars and not leaving valuable items unattended.

Health in County Carlow

Health facilities in County Carlow are up to standard, and the county is served by a few hospitals and several clinics.

Getting to County Carlow: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near County Carlow

The nearest international airport is Dublin Airport, which is approximately 90 minutes’ drive from County Carlow.

Bus Stations Near County Carlow

There are several bus services operating in the county, including Bus Eireann and Carlow Local Link.

Other Options

There are also taxis and car hire services available.

How to Get Around in County Carlow

The best way to get around County Carlow is by car, although cycling and walking are good options, especially if you plan to explore the local countryside.

Where to Go Next from County Carlow: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If time permits, there are several nearby destinations and excursions you can visit after County Carlow. Here are some popular choices:

  • County Kilkenny
  • Wicklow Mountains National Park
  • Dublin City
  • Wexford

Conclusion

County Carlow is a beautiful, off-the-beaten-path destination that offers visitors a real taste of Irish hospitality, picturesque landscapes, rich culture, and history. This comprehensive guide provides all the information you need to explore County Carlow and make the most of your visit.

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