Dublin is typically your gateway into Ireland.
Despite the classic pubs, cobbled streets, and friendly locals, going beyond the city is where the country really shines.
Besides Dublin, travelers can fly directly to multiple airports in Ireland, such as Shannon and Cork.
By doing so, the country’s delightful villages are often overlooked in the midst of being captivated by Ireland’s astounding coastlines and storybook castles.
One such town has been named one of Ireland’s most scenic escapes where the atmosphere is like a ‘movie set‘.
With virtually no crowds and stunning medieval sites, it’s time to wave goodbye to the city life and say hello to the picturesque town of Inistioge.
A Storybook Town Steeped In Fascinating History
Travel anxiety can cause us to overthink where to go; I’m certainly guilty of it.
Heck, I’ve lived in San Diego 10 years and I’m just now visiting local hotspots I’ve shoved aside far too long.
The point is that Ireland is one of those destinations where plans can go out the window.
There are just too many amazing places to cover in a single trip.
That being said, if you want to experience a truly authentic Irish town where welcoming locals are ready to show off their beloved hideaway, then Inistioge is the answer to your unfinished travel plans.
Despite being off travelers’ radar, Inistioge has developed the ‘Heritage Trail’ for anyone ready to give their delightful community a fair shake.
This quaint village goes back deep to prehistoric times to where, as legend has it, the ancient Osraige tribe defeated Olaf Cuaran, King of Dublin, way back in 964.
Today, Inistioge is designated as a National Monument and protected under the National Monuments Act, giving more credence to the intriguing 23-stop Heritage Trail, featuring long-standing castles, landmark homes, and old-world churches.
Find Your Zen In Inistioge’s Beautiful Natural Settings
Dublin is a great city, but finding some of your inner peace amongst always-busy streets is a hard sell.
Sure, you can find a quiet corner of a pub until the ‘auld fellas’ burst into an impromptu sesh of harmonic Irish folk songs.
Well, Inistioge is the anti-Dublin in many aspects. One key reason is the pretty scenery and tranquility.
The Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum is a must-visit while here.
Entry is only $5.50 to gain access to gorgeous gardens, scenic trails, ancient trees, and yes, even flowing waterfalls along a specified trail.
This is also where you’ll find one of the city’s most historic landmarks – the Woodstock House, dating back to the 1700s and still going strong for her age.
You can spend all day perusing the expansive grounds and take advantage of the best views of the entire village and parallel River Nore.
Best of all, you can fuel up or cap off your day at the grounds’ charming tea rooms. But don’t wait too long – tea rooms close October through April!
Receiving high praise across the board, one recent visitors revealed, “Woodstock Gardens is a perfect place to visit with family and friends, even better it’s dog friendly. Really lovely walk around the gardens and into the wood, you can really spend as much as as little time as you’d like.”
Getting Here And Where To Stay
Inistioge is located in Kilkenny County, away from other major cities.
Many of Ireland’s most popular destinations are spread out, working in Inistioge’s favor, as you can conveniently fly into Dublin or Cork.
From Dublin, you can hop aboard a train or bus to Kilkenny, then transfer busses or hail a cab to Inistioge.
Expect train tickets to start around $10 by booking directly through the Irish Rail.
You could rent a car too but know that Ireland does require International Driver’s Licenses for non-European residents.
From Cork, it’s a longer train ride but only about $6 more than Dublin.
The same goes for departures from Shannon, with an additional stop, meaning Dublin is the most feasible overall.
Upon arrival, don’t expect the familiar name-brands and eyesore chain restaurants. Inistioge boasts a sense of real Ireland with traditional pubs and homey Bed & Breakfasts.
These are the top 3 Inistioge stays, according to TripAdvisor:
- Woodstock Arms Bed & Breakfast
- Cullintra House
- Grove Farm House
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