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| Bagenalstown Festival: runs Friday 6th to Sunday 8th August 2010 | |||||
| About County Carlow - continued
Mount Wolseley 18th hole Beside the magnificent Blackstairs Mountains you will find the renowned 9-hole course at Borris. The novice is also well catered for with par 3’s in Carlow and Tullow and a par 4 at Carrigleade, near St. Mullins. For those wishing to hone their golfing skills, a trip to Carlow Golf Range with its weatherproof bays and well stocked pro-shop, provides the perfect location to practice in comfort. Wherever you play golf in Carlow, a warm welcome is par for the course. Adventure Unveil the landscape of this ancient and mystical county in all her natural splendour. Winding country lanes, leafy forest trails and open countryside offer the perfect terrain for discovery on bicycle, on horseback or on foot.
Hill Walking A walkers paradise, Carlow is home to three of Ireland’s Key national walking routes – The Leinster Way, the Wicklow Way and the Barrow Way which links with the Slieve Margy Way in County Laois. Experienced walkers will enjoy the invigorating challenge of Carlow’s way-marked mountain tracks, whilst novices will find peace and tranquility on quiet country walks.The rush of adrenaline as foot leaves ground and spirit soars, hang-gliders experience this each time they swoop from the Blackstairs Mountains over the vast and panoramic river valley below. Take a river safari through these valleys, drift lazily downstream, or shout with excitement as your canoe shoots the playful rapids.
Caneoing Carlow Town Carlow Town, the county capital is strategically positioned at the meeting point of the rivers Barrow and Burrin where once four lakes stood. Whilst exploring Carlow’s winding streets and lanes be prepared for the unexpected, as the rich history of this busy market town offers something new at every turn. The culture and architecture of the cosmopolitan bars, shops and restaurants hints at Carlow’s turbulent and dramatic Celtic past. But take a walking tour of the town and discover the fine detail of its history in the imposing cathedral, in the classical 1830’s courthouse, in the remains of Carlow Castle and in the megalithic dolmen in Brownshill. Each one makes its own contribution to the story of Carlow.
Carlow Court House But there is more to Carlow than simply its rich Celtic past. It is now a vibrant college town home to an array of magnificent public sculpture, and an exciting traditional and contemporary nightlife scene. It is this dynamic combination of past and present that characterises Carlow’s streetscapes. Experience its unique culture in the luxury hotels, friendly guesthouses and country homes to be found throughout the country. Urban Life At its bustling centre is an eclectic mix of speciality shops, boutiques and stores – a treasure trove for ardent shoppers. And between visits to the shops, relax and watch the world go by over a quiet pint or a cup of freshly brewed coffee in its many traditional pubs and coffee bars. Choose from a diverse array of places to eat, including award winning restaurants serving fresh local produce and fusing the best of Irish, Continental and Asian cuisine for a truly international flavour.
Dining in the Lord Bagenal A dynamic and vibrant nightlife kicks off in the evenings with live music and entertainment in Carlow’s many cosmopolitan bars and clubs. Here and throughout the county you will find genuine live Irish culture in the language, music and traditions of this ancient land. Experience the excitement of a traditional Irish music session, or relax as storytellers recall ancient tales of battles won and love lost.
Traditional Music at the Lord Bagenal Arts & Crafts In the 19th century, Carlow was renowned for the beauty and quality of its delicate handmade lace. Today, Carlow has an abundance of original, handmade crafts including pottery, glass, ceramics, wood, ironwork, and textiles. Often inspired by the unique landscape that surrounds them, these artists and craftspeople have created a wealth of beautiful and collectible pieces in both traditional and contemporary designs. Visit Carlow Tourist Office to view some of these art and craft pieces at first hand. Each June Carlow celebrates the arts with “Eigse”, a critically acclaimed arts festival that showcases the work of Irish and international artists and performers. It boasts extensive visual arts, theatre performances, film, music, crafts and street entertainment programme. The streets of Carlow come alive to the sound of traditional Irish and samba beats. The bars, venues and galleries throughout the town are packed as Carlow welcomes visitors from all over the world to this exciting Festival. Houses & Gardens There is no better way to understand Carlow’s rural culture and rich past than to experience it for yourself. Houses such as Altamont House & Garden, Borris House, and Huntington Castle all remain as living evidence of times gone by. |
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Carlow Garden Trail 2010
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open throughout the festival!
click logo for information |
Huntington Castle Clonegal
Often called the Floral County, throughout the summer the streets, parks and gardens of Carlow’s towns and villages erupt into a sea of colour. Take the time to visit the many open gardens throughout the town and county. Some are old and formal, others bold and contemporary – but all inspirational and creative. Many of the exotic and indigenous plants used in these gardens are available in local award winning garden centres.
Altamont Gardens
As the sun goes down . . .
Time for quiet reflection on a day well spent. An early morning walk, a round of golf, a summit reached, a mountain drive, a glimpse of times gone by, a river voyage, a meeting of minds, gentle conversations in local pubs – but now to bed – for who knows what tomorrow will bring. Throughout the towns, villages and countryside of Carlow you’ll find a choice of fine hotels, grand country homes, charming guesthouses, bed & breakfasts and self-catering accommodation.Wherever you stay in Carlow you will enjoy comfortable lodgings, a warm welcome, easy conversation, fresh local food and all the help and advice you need. A warm Welcome Awaits.
Poulmounty River