A new discovery trail has been launched for Irish staycationers this week which links Carlow’s new wave of artisan food and beverage producers with the county’s mythical heritage.
Taste in Carlow
Taste In Carlow discovery trail is a guide to 26 food and beverage gems in the county, from unique producers to food adventures and quirky experiences.
The Carlow Taste trail is designed to last a period of 2 years and will provide the foundation for a permanent food and drink trail to be developed as part of Carlow’s food and drink strategy – A Taste of County Carlow 2020-2025 by Carlow County Council in partnership with industry and key stakeholders.
You Can Have Whatever You Like
Eateries on the Carlow trail are far from dull. Outlets such as Lennon’s at the Visual Arts Centre, Teach Dolmain, Sha-Roe Bistro, Seven Oaks Hotel, The Step House Hotel, Ballykealey House and the Plum Tree Bistro at The Woodford Dolmen Hotel.
In Carlow Town, some of the local brews are available at Corcoran’s, the oldest bar in Carlow. Other options are The Lord Bagenal Inn and The Pint Depot where you’ll find beverages such as Royal Oak Whiskey or O’Hara’s stouts and ales.
For some diverse flavours too with the Shapla Indian and Émile Pâtissier is offering a sweet alternative with gluten-free pastries. While The Mullicháin Café allows you to enjoy your food alongside the beautiful River Barrow.
With nourishment comes nurturing, and some of the trail features wellness retreats with wellbeing and food gurus at Mulvarra House, Tullow’s Thrive Café and the stunning Lisnavagh House and Gardens, where they also grow their own produce.
Ancient Roots and Foraging for Food
Found at the organic-only Coolanowle Foodhall or Carlow Farmers Market, where you will often see the nettle or goats milk varieties from Carlow Farmhouse Cheese and the colours of Malone Fruit Farm.
Carlow is home to export products like Sunshine Juice, and Gaelic Escargot which has put Carlow on the map as the innovative home of snail farming in Ireland.
The county’s ancient roots are seen too in the skill of foraging which has never been lost and is celebrated and taught through The Blackstairs Eco Trail where you can learn to find, cook and eat whatever Mother Nature has placed on her leafy table. If cooking is your thing but you prefer a less wild gathering experience, the Good Life Cookery School can teach you some new tricks.
Download the trail map at tasteincarlow.ie.
