Dive into nature with Newpark Hotel's Eco Trails in Kilkenny

Discover the flora and fauna of a fen landscape and learn all the names and personalities of native trees
Ranked as Ireland’s Best Family Hotel, the Newpark Hotel in Kilkenny has unveiled an exciting new adventure - a series of eco trails designed to immerse guests in the natural beauty and biodiversity of their Jurassic Newpark grounds.
The Eco Trails offer an unparalleled opportunity to explore, learn, and connect with the environment in an interactive and educational manner. This latest new addition to the hotel’s dinosaur themed activity park aligns with their ongoing commitment to achieving the highest sustainability goals and also reflects their emphasis on eco friendliness and education.
At the heart of the eco trails lies the Jurassic Journeys Eco Corner, an educational hub where visitors of all ages can delve into the secrets of the natural world. Here, guests will discover the fascinating science of dendrochronology; counting the rings of a tree to determine its age. This hands-on activity not only teaches important scientific principles but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the life cycles of trees.
The eco trails are designed to cater to both the young and the young at heart. Children can enjoy tree hugging and exploring miniature ecosystems and the intricate details of leaves with magnifying glasses. They will discover many different insects and learn their important role in keeping the ecosystem in balance. Collecting leaves and other natural treasures along the trail will enhance their connection with nature and stimulate curiosity and learning.
School Tour
Newpark Hotel's eco trails are an ideal destination for school tours. The trails provide an outdoor classroom where students can engage with the environment firsthand, making education both fun and impactful. Teachers will find a wealth of resources to support various curriculum topics, from biology and ecology to environmental science and conservation.
Self-Guided Family Adventures
For families, the eco trails offer a self-guided tour option, complete with informative signage that details the biodiversity of the park. Visitors will learn about the wild inhabitants of the area, including badgers, minks, foxes, and more. The self-guided tour ensures that families can explore at their own pace, making the experience both relaxing and enriching.
The Tree Tour: A Living Library
One of the most charming aspects of the eco trails is the Tree Tour, where each tree of the myriad mature trees on the grounds is now labelled with its name and a brief description. This living library allows guests to familiarise themselves with the diverse arboreal species in the park, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the natural landscape. From ancient oaks, splendid sycamores, to elegant birches, the Tree Tour provides a comprehensive overview of the park's tree population, which includes an abundance of native species.
The Newpark Hotel's eco trails are more than just a walk in the park; they are a journey into the very essence of Kilkenny's natural beauty and another string in the bow of this creative and innovative hotel.
The destination hotel already features 17 animatronic dinosaurs, a wildlife petting farm, adventure playground, fairy trail, Dino Den theatre, Jurassic Bounce inflatable adventure park, peddled go kart track and the snack shack. By blending education with recreation, the hotel offers a unique experience that nurtures a love for nature and a commitment to its preservation.
Newpark Hotel is part of the Irish owned and operated Flynn Hotel Collection, renowned for its commitment to excellence and guest satisfaction.
Family Breaks for two adults and two children start from €530 for two nights B&B. For more visit newparkhotelkilkenny.com #NextStopNewparkHotel #NobodyDoesItLikeNewparkHotel. For more information and to book your eco trail adventure, visit www.newparkhotelkilkenny.com/ or contact the hotel on 056-7760500