Step House Hotel

County Carlow is one of the smallest counties in Ireland and is bordered by the scenic Blackstairs Mountains to the east. The fertile limestone land of the Barrow Valley and the Killeshin Hills lie in the west of Carlow. The county’s most prominent feature is the 5000-year-old granite formation known as Browne’s Hill Dolmen. It is believed to have the largest capstone in Europe, weighing a colossal 100 tonnes.

Since time began Carlow has carried her mysteries along her rivers. Waterways winding gently through the rolling valleys of this county have carried people from 6000 years ago until now, and their legacy can be seen in its mystical ancient pagan sites, its early Christian settlements & its picturesque riverside towns and villages. Towns worth seeing include the small angling town of Tullow on the River Slaney and the Georgian village of Borris.

Borris is a beautiful, untouched town full of charm and heritage nestling in the fertile valley of the River Barrow, below the curve of the Blackstairs Mountains. It only consists of one street which is about one mile in length and slopes from top to bottom. The town prospered in the late 1800s as Arthur MacMurrough Kavanagh, the landlord of the time, developed a sawmill and a thriving lace-making industry. He also instigated the building of a graceful 16-arch viaduct, situated at the lower end of the town.

Today, Borris is a picturesque town of old stone buildings, many shops have kept their traditional shop fronts while Borris bars and pubs have earned nationwide recognition for their friendly, old world atmosphere and traditional music events. It is an excellent point from which to explore the Mount Leinster Drive and Blackstairs Mountains. Moreover, Borris offers a wide range of outdoor activities. The nine hole golf course at Boris commands panoramic views. It is one of the oldest golf courses of Ireland and is still maintained to a very high standard.

The Floral Festivals, excellent fishing spots, Cross Country Driving experiences, hang gliding and breathtaking walking paths guarantee family fun for everyone.