One of the highlights of walking in Kilkenny is the Nore Valley Walk which is due to be completed in 2011. When completed, it will stretch 34km from the Marble City to the charming village of Inistioge where the movie ‘Circle of Friends’ was filmed. Currently there are two sections: Kilkenny City to Bennetsbridge (12 km approx) and Thomastown to Inisitoge (11 km approx).
Mostly running along the picturesque river bank of the Nore, the route takes you through farmland and woods, and past ruined mills.
If these distances seem a little too long for you, not to worry. There are loads of shorter walks available too – like the Kilmacoliver Walk, a beautiful 6km route incorporating hill-top views and a megalithic tomb or the three looped walks (3/6/7 km) through the woods at the old Castlemorris Estate.
If you want to hunt for yourself, visit Trail Kilkenny, a fantastic source of information about new and established trails.
Of course, when you’re ready to throw off your walking boots and kick back a little, the medieval city is famous for its hospitality, fabulous local food and lively arts and crafts scene. In fact, the Kilkenny to Bennetsbridge section of the Nore Valley Walk features members of the Food and Craft Trail.