Nore Valley Way facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Nore Valley Way |
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|---|---|
| Length | 34 km (21 mi) |
| Location | County Kilkenny, Ireland |
| Designation | National Waymarked Trail |
| Trailheads | Kilkenny, Inistioge |
| Use | Hiking |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Season | Any |
| Website | http://www.trailkilkenny.ie/ |
The Nore Valley Way is an exciting walking path being developed in County Kilkenny, Ireland. When it's fully finished, this trail will be about 34 kilometers (21 miles) long. It will start in Kilkenny City and end in the beautiful village of Inistioge.
This trail is officially known as a National Waymarked Trail. This means it's a recognized route for hikers and walkers. The National Trails Office of the Irish Sports Council has given it this special designation. A group called Trail Kilkenny helps to manage the trail. This group includes people from the local council and landowners.
Discovering the Nore Valley Way
The Nore Valley Way is still being built, but parts of it are already open for you to explore! There are two main sections ready for hikers right now. One section goes from Kilkenny to Bennettsbridge. The other section stretches from Thomastown to Inistioge. The final part, which will connect Bennettsbridge and Thomastown, is currently under construction.
The Kilkenny to Bennettsbridge Section
This part of the trail is about 12.1 kilometers (7.5 miles) long. It follows the lovely River Nore as it winds through the countryside. Along this section, you will pass by the Black Marble limestone quarries. These quarries are very famous and gave Kilkenny its nickname, the "Marble City."
You will also go past Maddockstown. This was the home of Arthur Oliver Wheeler, a well-known surveyor. He was also the father of Edward Oliver Wheeler, who was a pioneer in exploring Mount Everest.
The Thomastown to Inistioge Section
This section of the Nore Valley Way is about 10.9 kilometers (6.8 miles) long. It also follows the banks of the River Nore. As you walk, you'll see some interesting historical sites.
One of these is Grennan Castle. This old castle was built way back in the 13th century by a person named Thomas Fitzanthony. You'll also pass Ballyduff House, which dates back to the 18th century. Finally, the trail goes through Brownsbarn Forest, offering a peaceful walk among the trees.
