County Carlow is uniquely dissected by a myriad of rivers and waterways, which carve a patchwork of fertile plains through the countryside. They flow sedately past monuments to Ireland's rich heritage bestowed by ancient cultures like the Celts, Vikings, Normans and the Anglo-Saxons. The scenic Blackstairs Mountains to the east and Mount Leinster reward the climber with panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.

1) Kilkenny Castle & City:
Kilkenny, Ireland's medieval capital, is renowned for its heritage and cultural activities. The city with its maze of narrow old-world streets and 12th century fully restored castle is one of the South East's premier tourist attractions. The Castle dates from 1172 and the stables house the world famous Kilkenny Design Centre, where many of the country's handcrafted products are displayed. Follow the craft trail and discover the skill and creativity of the local craftsmen. The city comes alive in the third week of August when the Kilkenny Arts Festival takes place. The festival lasts nine days and celebrates the best of Irish arts, from contemporary to traditional. Musicians play classical, jazz and traditional music, singers perform and novelists and poets give readings in pubs and selected venues around the city.

2) Altamont Gardens:
Beautiful formal and informal gardens surrounding a large man-made lake fringed by rare trees and shrubs make up the wonderful Altamont Gardens. Beautiful views of the Wicklow Mountains and Mount Leinster can be enjoyed along the Hill Walk. A stroll through the Arboretum, Bog Garden and Ice Age Glen with its canopy of ancient oaks leads to the river Slaney where there is an abundance of wildlife. Salmon and trout swim in the river and even otters can be seen along the river bank.

3) Huntington Castle and Demesne:
Huntington Castle with its famed lime tree avenue and yew tree walk lies in the picturesque village of Clonegal. Film buffs will know that Stanley Kubrick used the Castle as the setting for his film Barry Lyndon. Gardening enthusiasts should take time to visit the conservatory to see a vine, which was grown from a cutting given to Anne Boleyn by Cardinal Wolsey.

4) Browne's Hill Dolmen:
Carlow is steeped in history and is dotted with many prehistoric monuments, Browne's Hill Dolmen being the most substantial. This pre-historic dolmen with its 100-ton granite capstone dating from 2500BC is the largest and most impressive of its type in Europe. A megalithic tomb, often referred to as Druids Altar, it was possibly used for religious rites over 4,000 years ago

Riding, Fishing, Sightseeing, Walking, Cruising, Horse Racing

Mount Juliet, Parkland Course, 18 Holes, 7,100 yards, Par 72.
Founded 1991. Designer Jack Nicklaus
Druids Glen, Parkland Course, 18 Holes, 7,102 yards, Par 72.
Designers Pat Ruddy & Tom Craddock
Mount Wolseley, Parkland Course, 18 Holes, 7,106 yards, Par 72.
Founded 1995. Designer Christy O'Connor Jnr.
Carlow, Parkland Course, 18 Holes, 5,844 metres, Par 70.
Designer Tom Simpson.

Aberdeen Lodge, Dublin 51 miles
Kinnity Castle, Birr - 60 miles