Did you know that Carlow was actually the capital of Ireland until the 14th century? You’ll find this county nestled in the southeast of Ireland, filled with relics of Ireland’s Ancient East. Visit Carlow to discover artefacts from the Stone Age, monasteries, medieval castles and more. Drive along the meandering River Barrow and Slaney on leafy roads, and all the way up the Blackstairs Mountains and Killeshin Hills. As beautiful as the countryside of Carlow is, you’ll need more to keep you busy on your trip there, so we’ve compiled our list of the top 5 unique things to do in Carlow. We’re moving past your traditional museums and galleries, and instead giving you unique attractions to help you make your trip special with these fun things you can’t find anywhere else!
1. Go with the Flow Adventures
Do you feel like your life not contain enough spontaneity and thrill? Then make sure your holiday to Carlow does! With Go with the Flow you’ll have qualified guides and equipment for you to explore all the rapids and waterfalls of the River Barrow. Take your pick from their tailored packages, which cater everything from family learning days to corporate groups to hen/stag parties! Enjoy their dozens of trails, and understand why they have numerous customers coming back annually.
2. Delta Sensory Gardens
Officially opened in 2007, the Delta Sensory Gardens were the first of their kind in Ireland, and have grown since into a major tourist attraction for Carlow. They are located on the outskirts of the vibrant Carlow Town and their 2.5 acre site features 16 connecting gardens. Their attractions change per season, such as their bright daffodils in Spring and the breathtaking foliage of Autumn. One of the biggest highlights of the Delta Sensory Gardens are the numerous water features around the garden, such as the renowned Kugal - which consists of one tonne of pink marble floating on a cushion of water. Following your stroll, head to the restaurant and cafe on site, which can keep you satisfied from breakfast to afternoon tea.
3. The Chocolate Garden of Ireland
Visiting the Chocolate Garden of Ireland must surely be one of the tastiest things to do in Carlow, or even the whole of Ireland! It is located in the rural countryside by the Wicklow and Carlow border, and is an authentic artisan maker of award-winning chocolates and premium ice cream - yum! You can book ahead to reserve a workshop experience, or for a chocolate making session simply walk-in. Following your hard work, enjoy further tastings in the boutique cafe, while your kids exert their sugar high in the play area. The Chocolate Garden of Ireland is truly a delicious day out for the whole family!
4. Carlow Brewing Company
After all that munching, you’ll surely be thirsty, so then you could head over to Carlow Brewing Company for a drink. It is one of Ireland’s craft brewing pioneers and have been leading the industry for over 20 years. They continuously discover new craft beer styles, as well as revive old flavours, prioritising flavour. You can explore the brewery through an informative tour, and be sure to sample the delicious produce afterwards… you simply must!
5. Festival of Writing & Ideas
Head to Borris Village over the weekend of 7th to 9th June 2019 to enjoy the Borris House Festival of Writing & Ideas. Situated at the foot of the Blackstairs Mountains alongside the River Barrow, this weekend promises stimulating dialogue and discourse. It attracts intriguing minds from across the world, from writers to artists to filmmakers. It is more than a festival of the arts, as it gathers people who have experienced the extraordinary as well as those simply wishing to change the way we do things. You can either choose to stay locally or camp in style - which Goboony could help with… Head to this festival for a weekend of enriching your mind and soul, both listening and speaking to inspiring speakers, surrounded by the beauty of Boris Village.
Where to Stay in Carlow
When considering Carlow accommodation, we immediately think of Raven’s Rest. With extensive open space, this campsite provides plenty of room for children to roam about and enjoy. Children will enjoy the sandpit, swings, goalposts and more, while their parents appreciate the onsite barbecues. End your days of fun in Carlow through resting at this tranquil campsite and roasting marshmallows on a campfire. Allow yourself to enjoy camping and the beautiful outdoors whilst still having great shower facilities!
Prices start from £18.15 per night
GPS: 52.849191, -6.544859
Ballysallagh Upper, Hacketstown, Co. Carlow, Ireland
The lush, green landscape of Carlow is unrivaled across Ireland, and now that you know these 5 unique things to do and the best of Carlow accommodation, you’re ready to go! Search for a motorhome on Goboony for a fun, safe and affordable motorhome holiday. Enjoy the freedom of your campervan as you cruise through the majestic scenery of Carlow and visit these fascinating attractions. Let’s get driving
