County Kilkenny boasts a range of scenic experiences that allow for a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Rejuvenate mind, body and soul as you can take in the beauty of nature all around. As always, we encourage you to practice a leave no trace approach to all areas of natural beauty, clean up after your pups and be mindful of waterways.
1. Walk or Hike one of Kilkenny’s gorgeous trails
Uncover Kilkenny’s plentiful walking and hiking trails, with something for everyone whether you’re an experienced hiker or looking for a peaceful stroll to unwind. Connect with nature and leave behind the stress of daily life as you walk through The Nore Valley Walk or The Woodstock Loop Trail or take on a more of a challenge and head to Brandon Hill. Your worries will melt away when you get a glimpse of the stunning Kilkenny countryside as it unfolds before you.
Find all of Kilkenny’s trail maps at Trail Kilkenny and start planning your adventurous day out!
2. Cycle Your Worries Away Around Kilkenny’s Biking Routes
On your bike! Ride through Kilkenny on two wheels and discover the city through cycling adventures that will keep both your mind and body in good health. Kilkenny boasts cycling routes for all levels of expertise. For a leisurely ride, check out East Kilkenny Cycle Route. If you’re searching for a more exhilarating experience, head to the Castlecomer Discovery Park and check out their mountain biking trail, which is open to both experts and beginners with lessons available.
Swap the car for the bike in the city by renting a Bolt bike via the app and make your commute more sustainable whilst improving your cardiovascular fitness!
3.Discover Kilkenny’s winding waterways
Getting out on the open water is a great way to connect with nature. With many options from wild swimming in the refreshing rivers. Plan a day trip with a twist with Paddle Your Own Canoe and see the Kilkenny countryside from a new angle. The thrill of being out in the water is a great way to engage your senses and make you feel alive. Please choose safe places and be mindful of surroundings when going in or near the water.
4. Fuel Your Body & Mind with a Healthy Picnic
Take a break from your busy day of exploring and gather a basket full of fresh, healthy foods from our farmers market, which pops up on The Parade every Thursday. Choose from a range of local cafes that create seasonal menus with the freshest local produce. Grab your grub and have a picnic in the grounds of Kilkenny Castle Park. Please remember to leave no trace!
5. Immerse Yourself in Kilkenny’s Ancient History
Kilkenny is the perfect place for history buffs with everything from ancient passage tombs in Knockroe to a 12th century Cisterian abbey at Jerpoint Abbey– there is history to be found around every corner. Take time to reflect upon the centuries of history beneath the ruins. These quiet environments allow for time to reflect on the past while connecting with the present.
6. Beat the Sunday scaries as a family
Spend time together in the arms of nature at Kilkenny Countryside Park, with a dedicated dog-friendly enclosure for the pooches to make some new pals. Let the kids run wild at the Junior Parkrun that takes place every Sunday at 9:30am. Take in the sounds of nature whilst lounging in a hammock surrounded by bounties of biodiversity or explore a series of three themed trails: the Mass Path Trail which starts at Dunmore village, along with an Accessibility Trail and a Biodiversity Trail.
Kilkenny is filled to the brim with outdoor activities to invigorate your mind and your body. Spending as little as 30 minutes a day outdoors can help to revitalise your physical and mental wellbeing!
#OutdoorKilkenny
