Going ‘Off the Grid’ in Kilkenny

The picturesque Poulanassy Waterfall, located just outside Kilkenny, is a natural beauty. Surrounded by forestry terrain and overhanging trees, it’s a guaranteed great day out for family or friends. Or even if you need some time alone with nature, this is the ideal tranquil spot! The waterfall’s pool is the ideal spot for a peaceful swim and in the summer you have full access to picnic areas and portable BBQ’s.

Photo by @loveireland (IG)

Kilfane Glen and Waterfall is a pristine example of a romantic-era garden. Amazingly, this garden and waterfall remains untouched in all its glory for over 200 years. The experience of seeing the waterfall tumbling its way to a rushing stream and pathways leading to a cottage orné is something you’ll never forget after visiting this historic landmark. And of course, the garden is held in high regard, being listed as an Irish Heritage garden and awarded assistance in 1993 by the European Union Cultural Commission. Go ‘Off the Grid’ this summer and visit Kilfane Glen & Waterfall, we promise you’ll leave a happier person.

Windgap is a village in Kilkenny steeped in history and rich in culture. The landscape surrounding the village is full of tall hills and large woodland areas, making it a very scenic stroll. Enjoy the village loop walk where the purple arrow signs will lead you to the woodland path. On your route you will see some of the finest examples of local heritage; Feehans Well, the Old League House, and Calvary Grotto (Reflective Walk). This amazing grotto which overlooks the village is the largest in Europe. An ideal spot to take a break here is the Summerhouse. You’ll be in awe watching the quartz stones glistening in the sunshine, before returning to the lake. The slate quarry in Windgap is also a little beauty and definitely a hidden gem! Windgap is an Off the Grid hotspot in Kilkenny. 

Mountain View Kilkenny – it’s in the name. If you’re looking for a high end spot with beautiful views of the countryside then is your place. Sit back, relax and enjoy a drink on the terrace overlooking fields of green from the top of the mountain. You won’t find a more chilled out spot, especially if the sun is shining! Among its surrounds you’ll also find a golf course and plenty of different types walks surrounding Mountain View. A really suitable place to spend an entire day.

Fennelly’s is your typical old school cafe located in the small old town of Callan. 

It’s as traditional as they come, serving breakfast all day long! This quirky and quaint place is an ideal stop off for your morning coffee and bite to eat before exploring the county. The staff are extremely friendly and welcome every customer with open arms. Whether you’re there for a full Irish or just a cake and coffee to take away, you’re guaranteed to leave with a smile on your face. A classic artsy spot that you have to visit while you’re in Kilkenny.

Jenkinstown Woods may not be a lengthy walk with only a few acres of trees inside an old parkland wall, but it’s definitely more about the fascination of what’s inside. A mixture of dark spruce and pine with classic old estate trees will draw you in and lead you off track and into your own wonder. Stroll around, spend time, create your own walk, enjoy nature!

A trip to Castlecomer could last a morning or a full day. There’s plenty to do. The main attraction, however, is Discovery Park. A beautiful 80-acre woodland park where you can enjoy both indoor and outdoor experiences including a treetop adventure walk, climbing wall, woodland trails, zipline and octagon, canoeing, archery along with what the town is originally known for, a Coal Mining Museum. Castlecomer also has a craft yard, where you can bask in the local culture and watch how the growing groups of crafts and artisans make their trade. You’ll find artists there selling pottery, silver jewellery, interiors, fine art painting, fine jewellery and ceramics. If you can, purchasing one or even taking part in a class and making your own craft is a great token of your experience there. At only a 20 minute drive from Kilkenny, it’s definitely worth it.