Altamont Gardens Carlow
Altamont Gardens kown as the most romantic garden in Ireland, Altamont is an enchanting blend of formal and informal gardens located on a 100 acre estate. Whilst still little known, it ranks in the top ten of Irish gardens and is often referred to as 'the jewel in Ireland's gardening crown'.
The 2½ acre lake at Altamont Gardens was dug out after the Irish Potato Famine. Research indicates that it took 100 men with horses and carts 2 years to complete this task at a cost in 1847/8 of £12,000, a not inconsiderable sum at that time.
Lawns are bisected by sculpted yews sloping down to a romantic lake surrounded by rare trees, rhododendrons and shrubs. A profusion of roses, old fashioned and modern, and herbaceous plants scent the air. A fascinating walk through the Arboretum, Bog Garden and Ice Age Glen with its canopy of ancient oaks leads to the majestic River Slaney. Along the River Walk, you may see salmon and trout rising, perhaps even an otter, and throughout the garden, an abundance of birds and butterflies. On your return via the Hill Walk, there are wonderful views of the Blackstairs and Wicklow Mountains and Mount Leinster.
So why not take a journey back in time in this tranquil old world setting and experience one of the most unique and magical gardens in the British Isles.
Lawns and clipped yews slope down to a lake surrounded by rare trees, shrubs and a profusion of roses both old and modern with herbaceous plants scent the air. There is a steep descent through the "Ice Age Glen" to a beautiful river walk.
Large, beautiful old world garden, Robinsonian in style with a strong emphasis on the informal tradition of combining a good plant collection within the natural landscape of its environment.
Altamont Gardens Opening Times:
Summer: Open 7 days including bank holidays
Easter - End of April: 9am - 6.30pm
May - End August: 9am - 7.30pm
September: 9am - 6.30pm
October: 9am - 5.00pm
(Subject to change. Please telephone in advance of visit)
Altamont Gardens Admission:
Currently Free.
Visit other Parks and Gardens or spend an afternoon with the kids at one of Ireland's Pet Farms
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Parks And Gardens