Happy Monday everyone!

Recently we were kindly asked down to stay in the Avalon House Hotel newly opened in Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny. Some of you may or may not know I am originally from Kilkenny and it really has so much to offer. I have blogged previously and shown you Kilkenny city I am now going to give you a taster of what Kilkenny’s beautiful countryside has to offer specifically Castlecomer.

Firstly we paid a visit to Castlecomer Discovery Park which is just twenty minutes outside the city of Kilkenny.

This opened in 2007 and includes 16 on site activities over 80 acres of woodland. It is also home to Ireland’s longest zip line. This is the perfect day out for family, friends, partners or even a group. Be it hens or stag parties! Here I recommend the zip line, the pedalo boats, archery & a sky walk! That’s just to name but a few activities. Usually I am not great with heights but I was so proud to say I actually did the zip line and the sky walk.

You are actually really safe in the harness and fully instructed by staff before you engage in any of the activities. They were brilliant! If you like you can book activities separately. and if the activities are not your thing you can simply stroll and take in the beautiful woodlands and scenery around the park. For more info and booking check out their website here: www.discoverypark.ie.

Following the trip to Castlecomer Discovery Park we checked into the beautiful Avalon House Hotel which is just a two minute drive from here! This 4-star hotel is only opened approximately two months having recently been renovated. The beautiful exterior is matched by that of the interior which is in keeping with the old style of the house on which it was built.

As you enter the front door, the library and open fire to your right immediately stands out as the perfect place to relax.

Having checked in we then went to our room. Below are some snaps of the room we stayed in, I loved the cushions, chairs and attention to detail in this room. Not only is the interior beautiful the room is spacious, fully equipped with all essentials for your evening meal or night out. It even has an area where you can lounge, read your book or simply chill out.

The spacious bathroom is equipped with a vintage style bath as well as a shower again helping you to relax and make the most of your getaway.

That night we also ate in the hotel itself known as Lil’s restaurant. If you are looking for something a little more wow I strongly recommend a meal here. We were given a taster of three types of home made bread which included different spreads before we started our meal. To start I then had the new season asparagus this included local duck egg, salami, asparagus and red pepper dressing. This was amazing, and not too filling. For mains I opted for the trio of Kilkenny lamb it was really succulent as you can see even the presentation is fab!

Eamonn opted for the trout if you are a fish lover this was delish! It also came with shrimp. This was the market fish of the day special when we were there.

For breakfast, it’s not just average. Instead you get to choose from another beautiful menu. I suggest trying the Mexican omelette which also comes with avocado on the side!

You can also choose from blueberry pancakes, croissants, eggs royale to name but a few.

To finish the evening we went to the bar within the hotel. This had a really nice friendly environment with a really pleasant barman and we enjoyed the craic with the locals! For more info on staying here check out their website here: http://www.avalonhousehotel.ie.

All in all I have so much more appreciation of what county Kilkenny & Castlecomer has to offer, and this is just a snippet! If you are looking for a night away and something to do then this is the perfect combo.

Happy travels,

Sinéad x