" The Undiscover'd Country "

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About sixteen miles to the south east of Carlow lies a secret. It is a special place known only to a few and not figuring large on the itineraries of the major travel companies. The town of Borris situated close to the Barrow River and having as backdrop the lordly range of the Blackstairs Mountains, is a haven of peace and tranquility. Overlooked by the historical home of the Kavanaghs, Borris House, the lichened granite walls and fine doorways of the town pay tribute to the stonemasons of an earlier age.

For the thirsty traveller there is a fine selection of unspoiled old pubs in which traditional music can be heard and where strangers are made welcome with that particularly Irish mixture of curiosity and genuine interest. Talk is still a precious commodity here. There is a variety of eating - places both in the town and within short travelling distance to suit every palate and pocket.

The river is suitable for boating, canoeing and swimming, and there are countless miles of of meandering river-walks following the old canal paths, where one can catch a glimpse of the indescence of the Kingfisher and if one has luck, a sighting of elusive otters at play close to the bank. The nearby Blackstairs also beakon hill-walkers and the more intrepid hang-gliders can be seen on summer evenings riding the air currents over the lower pasture land.

The Marble City, Kilkenny, Waterford, Carlow, Enniscorthy and Wexford are all just a short car journey away, a days sightseeing and shopping in any of these places will prove memorable with a return to the peace of Borris in the evening, and perhaps another session in the pub before turning in.

There are several noted gardens within striking distance and some major garden centres. The local golf course is one of the most scenic and Mount Juliet, setting for the Irish Open with its wonderful groungs is only half an hour away. If history attracts, Borris is at the heart of it. The magnificent abbey church of Graiguemanagh is only five mile away and a visit to the ruined Abbey of Jerpoint is a must.

As said above, it is a special place. Those who discover it are suprised and enchanted and find themselves returning again and again. It casts its own peculiar spell. You have been warned !