Love the Wild Side of Life?

May 9

Head for County Wicklow

The Garden of Ireland

Immersion in nature is the essence of a visit to County Wicklow with its many rivers, forests, mountains and coastline. Located just south of Dublin on the east coast, County Wicklow is often called the ‘Garden of Ireland’.

Its National Park spans most of the county with numerous fabulous walks to suit all abilities and with breathtaking views to boot! For an up-close experience with some of the world’s rarest plants, a visit to Kilmacurragh Botanic Gardens is a must.

Where to stay

After all that clean, fresh air, you’ll want somewhere to kick your shoes off and enjoy the best of Irish hospitality and Wicklow has much to offer to suit all budgets.

For a bit of luxury, stay at the popular Powerscourt Hotel with its beautiful gardens, or at the Druid’s Glen Hotel if you fancy a game of golf. A reasonably priced alternative is Hunter’s Hotel, an old coaching inn, with a lovely country house feel at home atmosphere.

A Bite to Eat

Restaurants in County Wicklow have won many awards for the variety and quality of their food. Check out Pink Salt restaurant in Bray; The Bridge Tavern and The Blue Fin in Wicklow town – all serving food from locally sourced produce, including from the sea. You won’t be disappointed by the traditional Irish breakfast served at the Jailer’s Rest and you can walk this off with a tour of Wicklow’s Historic Jail nearby. For a good pint of ‘the black stuff’, call in to The Brass Fox in Leitrim Place.

Well Worth A Visit

Russborough House: one of Ireland’s most beautiful stately homes.

Mount Usher Gardens: expansive gardens featuring rare trees and plants for all seasons.

Glendalough: home to one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland set in beautiful countryside.

Bailey’s Liqueur Farm: tour the farm and see how Bailey’s is made. Enjoy the free samples!

Did you know…

That the movie ‘Braveheart’, about the struggle for Scottish independence, had much of its beautiful scenery filmed not in Scotland, but around Blessington Lakes in County Wicklow.