THE MOUNT LEINSTER HERITAGE DRIVE

The Mount Leinster Heritage Drive is a 75km (47 miles) driving route through the beautiful countryside of rural south Carlow taking in the towns and villages of Borris, Bunclody, Clonegal, Kildavin, Myshall, Fenagh and Bagenalstown. Notable features in the landscape include the Blackstairs Mountains, and Mount Leinster, its highest peak at 795 meters.

The secret to discovering the true beauty of the Mount Leinster region is to spend time exploring its hidden treasures and getting to know the local people, who are renowned for their friendliness. Each twist and turn of the road will reveal a new delight - beautiful unspoiled villages, breathtaking scenery, interesting rock formations, heather clad hills, grand country homes and ancient heritage sites. Visitors with a taste for the outdoors will appreciate the superb range of activities including the South Leinster Way long distance walking route, shorter walks along the beautiful River Barrow and at Kilbrannish Forest on the Blackstairs Mountains, hang gliding and cycling.

The Mount Leinster Heritage Drive trail can be joined at any point and can be completed in a day. However, we encourage you to relax, overnight and spend time exploring the remarkable beauty of this undiscovered part of Ireland. It is a journey not to be rushed and visitors will appreciate the unhurried pace of life in this area.

Borris is a charming town and the main street is lined with Georgian houses on one side and on the other side Borris House, home to the Kavanagh dynasty, and descendants of the Celtic Kings of Leinster.

The Nine Stones Viewing Point provides an unrivalled vista and magnificent views of the rich and colorful countryside, both near and afar.

Bunclody is a wonderful place to stop and discover the delights of this town. First written reference to Bunclody dates from 769 A.D. Annála Riacltha Na hÉireann contains a vague reference to a hermit living there.

Clonegal is charming village and a flavoured location for walkers, also its home to Huntington Castle and its rich and powerful history.

Kildavin is a small picturesque village. As with many Irish place names prefixed by "Kil", this is often referred to as an early church (Cill). Also in the location is the old monastic Cranavane Well.

The village of Myshall and surrounding area enjoys a long religious history with St. Finian. Adelaide Memorial Church is located in the village and was built as a miniature of Salisbury Cathedral. So much history to explore.

Fenagh village is known for its architectural design and beautiful granite buildings.

Bagenalstown, otherwise known in its Gaelic version as Muine Bheag is sited on a pleasant stretch of the River Barrow and derives its name from Walter Bagenal, who founded the town of Bagenalstown and lived at Dunleckney Manor.

Source: discoverireland.com