Local Info
A Rich Cultural Heritage Written Deep into the Landscape
Experience a variety of heritage attractions throughout Route 1, Route 2 and Route 3 such as Brownshill Dolmen just outside Carlow, the very famous Rock of Cashel in Co. Tipperary, the Dunbrody ship in Co. Wexford and and of course, Kilkenny Castle. If you want to see what rural life in is really like in the South East,take a trip to the scenic village of Inistioge or visit the charming Barrow-side village of St. Mullins.
Carlow - Ceatharlach
A jewel of a county with a wealth of scenery and history – from rich pastureland and colourful mountains to the deep and historical Barrow River Valley. Everywhere in the landscape is the resonance of her ancient pre-Celtic past. A county of green, vibrant colours, whose welcoming people are much given to outdoor and sporting activities, such as gentle river cruising, golf or even hang gliding on Mount Leinster.
Carlow Town marks the meeting of the Barrow and Burrin rivers, a point which was believed to be once made up of four lakes, hence the gaelic name, Ceathar Loch, or Four Lakes. The main towns in the county are Bagenalstown, Sir Walter Bagenal's 18th century attempt at replicating Versailles, Borris, a handsome estate town, full of charm and heritage and home to the MacMurrough Kavanagh family, former Celtic Kings of Leinster, Leighlinbridge, gold medal winner in Europe's Entente Florale in 2001, an attractive town with a beautiful arch bridge, said to be one of the oldest functioning bridges in Europe, Tullow, ancestral home of the famous Wolseley family - of motor car fame -and the picturesque and historic village of St. Mullins.
Festivals and events around Carlow
Carlow Town, Carlow - Ceatharlach, Ceatharlach
Carlow stands at the confluence of the Barrow and Burrin rivers. Tradition has it that the junction of the two rivers once formed four lakes. The name ' Carlow ' means Four Lakes.
The ancient town of Carlow is a bustling centre with great shopping, fine restaurants and first-class accommodation. Carlow has a well-earned reputation for lively festivals throughout the year, including the internationally renowned Eigse Arts Festival, 10-day extravaganza featuring visual arts, theatre, performance, comedy, dance, literary events and more.
While the river remains an important focus for the town, with a long established Rowing Club and annual regatta, other influences include an international student population, a thriving arts and craft community, a long and lively tradition of Irish language use and culture.
