A Visit to County Wicklow Awaits

County Wicklow, located on the beautiful southeast coast of Ireland, offers visitors one of the most authentic experiences in the country. Due to its unmatchable beauty, it is famously called the ‘Garden of Ireland’.  

Wicklow is the perfect Irish escape. Its dramatic mountaintops, sweeping valleys, and stunning landscape are filled with changing shades of green.

The magical county of Wicklow has many things to love and appreciate, including some famous attractions. So, keep reading to learn more about what Wicklow can offer you on your next trip there.

Wicklow is located within Ireland’s Ancient East, a land filled with a lush history that goes back many centuries. This area is famous for its remarkable landscape, brought alive by ancient stories of Ireland.  

The Enchanting Landscape

County Wicklow’s landscape is an artist’s palette of verdant valleys, dramatic mountains, and serene lakes. The Wicklow Mountains dominate the county, offering breathtaking vistas and many outdoor activities. The Wicklow Mountains National Park spans over 20,000 hectares and is a haven for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers. Trails like the Wicklow Way provide an immersive experience through this natural wonderland, guiding visitors past glacial lakes, dense forests, and wild heaths.

The Wicklow Way

The Wicklow Way is one of Ireland‘s premier long-distance walking routes, stretching approximately 131 kilometres from Dublin’s southern suburbs through the heart of Wicklow to the small village of Clonegal in County Carlow. Established in 1980, it was the first waymarked trail in Ireland and remains a favourite for both seasoned and casual walkers. The trail traverses varied terrain, from gently rolling hills to challenging mountain passes, providing panoramic countryside views and opportunities to encounter local wildlife.

Glendalough: The Valley of the Two Lakes

Glendalough, a glacial valley in the Wicklow Mountains, is one of Ireland’s most iconic and picturesque locations. Known for its early medieval monastic settlement founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century, Glendalough is steeped in history and spirituality. The settlement includes the remains of a round tower, churches, and ancient crosses, all set against stunning natural beauty.

Visitors can explore the extensive network of walking trails around the valley, which offer varying difficulty levels. For example, the Spinc and Glenealo Valley Loop is a challenging but rewarding hike that provides spectacular views of the lakes and surrounding mountains. For those seeking a stroll, the Green Road Walk is a gentle path that follows the shores of the Upper Lake.

Historical and Cultural Riches

County Wicklow is a natural paradise and a region rich in history and culture. From ancient monastic sites to grand estates and gardens, the county’s historical landmarks offer a glimpse into Ireland’s past.

Powerscourt Estate and Gardens

Powerscourt Estate, located near the village of Enniskerry, is one of Wicklow’s most famous attractions. The estate’s history dates back to the 13th century, but the 18th-century Palladian mansion and its magnificent gardens draw visitors today. Though partially destroyed by fire in 1974, the house has been lovingly restored and now features an array of shops and a café.

The gardens at Powerscourt are among the finest in Europe, designed to complement the natural beauty of their surroundings. They span over 47 acres and include formal terraces, cascading fountains, and ornamental lakes. The Italian Garden, with its classical sculpture and manicured lawns, is particularly enchanting. The Japanese Garden, created in 1908, offers a serene escape with its vibrant azaleas, winding paths, and tranquil water features.

Russborough House

Russborough House, near the village of Blessington, is another architectural gem in County Wicklow. Built in the mid-18th century for the wealthy brewer Joseph Leeson, the house is a fine example of Palladian architecture. Its interiors are adorned with exquisite plasterwork and a fine art collection, including works by Gainsborough, Vermeer, and Rubens.

The estate’s parklands and gardens are equally impressive, featuring a maze, a walled garden, and a unique tree-lined avenue. Visitors can take guided house tours, explore the art galleries, and enjoy seasonal events and exhibitions.

Wicklow’s Historical Sites

Beyond the grand estates, County Wicklow has numerous other historical sites that reflect its rich heritage. The ancient monastic settlement at Glendalough has already been mentioned, but many other sites are worth exploring. The ruins of Baltinglass Abbey, founded in the 12th century, offer a glimpse into the region’s ecclesiastical history. The abbey’s remains, set amidst tranquil countryside, include a Romanesque church and cloister.

Kilmacurragh Arboretum, a short drive from Glendalough, is another historical treasure. Established in the 19th century, the conservatory features an extensive collection of exotic trees and shrubs, many of which were brought back by intrepid plant hunters of the Victorian era.

Charming Towns and Villages

County Wicklow’s towns and villages have a unique charm, allowing visitors to experience local culture and hospitality. There is something for everyone, from bustling market towns to quaint seaside villages.

Bray

Bray, located on the coast just 20 kilometres south of Dublin, is one of Wicklow’s largest towns and a popular seaside resort. Its Victorian promenade, lined with colourful buildings, is perfect for a stroll. Bray Head, a prominent hill overlooking the town, offers panoramic coastline views and is a favourite spot for hikers.

The town hosts various cultural events and festivals, including the Bray Jazz Festival and the Bray Air Display. The Mermaid Arts Centre, located in the heart of Bray, showcases local and international art, theatre, and music.

Greystones

Greystones, a charming coastal village further south, is known for its friendly atmosphere and picturesque setting. The village’s harbour is a hub of activity, with fishing boats and pleasure craft bobbing in the water. Greystone has a vibrant food scene, with various cafés, restaurants, and pubs offering everything from traditional Irish fare to international cuisine.

The village is also a gateway to the Wicklow Mountains, with several scenic trails beginning in or near Greystones. The Greystones to Bray Cliff Walk is particularly popular, offering stunning coastal views along a well-maintained path.

Enniskerry

Enniskerry, located near Powerscourt Estate, is often described as one of Ireland’s prettiest villages. Its charming square, surrounded by quaint shops and cafés, is a delightful place to relax and soak in the atmosphere. The village’s proximity to Powerscourt makes it an ideal base for exploring the estate and gardens.

Enniskerry is also a short drive from the scenic Glencree Valley, where visitors can explore the Glencree Centre for Peace and Reconciliation, housed in a former British military barracks. The centre’s peaceful surroundings and thought-provoking exhibitions offer a unique perspective on Ireland’s complex history.

Outdoor Adventures and Activities

County Wicklow’s diverse landscape provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and activities. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or prefer a more relaxed pace, there is something for everyone.

Hiking and Walking

Wicklow is a hiker’s paradise with its trail network and varied terrain. In addition to the Wicklow Way and Glendalough, the county offers numerous other walking routes catering to all fitness and experience levels. As mentioned, the Bray Head Cliff Walk is a relatively easy hike with spectacular coastal views.

For those seeking a more challenging adventure, Lugnaquilla Mountain, the highest peak in the Wicklow Mountains at 925 metres, offers a rewarding climb. The ascent is steep and requires a good level of fitness, but the panoramic views from the summit are well worth the effort.

Cycling

Cycling is another popular activity in County Wicklow, with numerous routes that showcase the county’s natural beauty. The Blessington Greenway, a scenic trail around the Blessington Lakes, is perfect for a leisurely bike ride. For more experienced cyclists, the Sally Gap route offers a challenging ride through the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, with stunning views at every turn.

Watersports

Wicklow’s lakes and rivers provide ample opportunities for watersports. Kayaking and canoeing are popular on the Blessington Lakes and the River Avonmore, while sea kayaking offers a unique perspective of the county’s rugged coastline. Fishing is a favourite pastime for those who prefer a more relaxed, water-based activity, with many lakes and rivers stocked with trout and salmon.

Equestrian Activities

Horse riding is another great way to explore Wicklow’s countryside. Several equestrian centres in the county offer guided trail rides through forests, along beaches, and over rolling hills. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, there are options to suit all levels of experience.

Wildlife and Nature Reserves

County Wicklow is home to a rich variety of wildlife and several nature reserves dedicated to preserving the region’s natural heritage. Birdwatchers, in particular, will find much to enjoy in Wicklow.

Wicklow Mountains National Park

County Wicklow is home to much of the Leinster mountain range, but its most notable feature is the Wicklow Mountains. Anyone visiting Country Wicklow must not pass up a trip to the Wicklow Mountains National Park. After all, Wicklow is celebrated as a ‘walkers paradise’; you’ll be met with many glorious views within the Wicklow Mountains.

The place is a natural wonderland. Every corner or trail in Wicklow Mountains National Park leads to views of the unspoilt Irish scenery filled with glacial valleys, unique viewpoints across hilltops, and windswept heaths. You’ll want a camera handy to capture the beauty surrounding you, as there is plenty to soak up.

A World Away at Silver Strand Beach

Many of County Wicklow’s best attractions are its natural landscapes and scenery, which will capture your heart. The delightful hidden gem of Silver Strand Beach is no different, hidden away in the Silver Strand Campsite just outside Wicklow Town.

A private beach where you can escape from the modern world, your little paradise in Ireland, as you walk along its wide-open stretches of sandy beach. When the Irish weather is at its best, you can swim and explore the small caves and covers nearby.

The Magnificent Powerscourt Waterfall

A trip to County Wicklow wouldn’t be memorable without visiting Ireland’s most beautiful and highest waterfall, the Powerscourt Waterfall. It is an awe-inspiring natural attraction you won’t encounter anywhere else. While you take in the beauty of the waterfall, you may also see some unique wildlife in the area. The place is a popular haven for wildlife like deer and birds.

Powerscourt Waterfall has long been the perfect spot for family picnics and visitors to enjoy barbecues in the summer months. It is also surrounded by the enchanting Powerscourt House and Gardens, home to many famous walking trails County Wicklow is known for.

Not to mention the unique gardens on display, which National Geographic once voted No.3 in the World’s Top Ten Gardens.

The beautiful gardens, filled with unique styles that include colourful displays, sweeping terraces, statues, secret areas, and more, help County Wicklow live up to its name as the ‘Garden of Ireland’. These magnificent Irish gardens, which date back over 200 years, were created to reflect the broader landscape of Wicklow.

Kilcoole Marshes

Kilcoole Marshes, located on the coast near the village of Kilcoole, is an essential site for bird conservation. The marshes are part of the Murrough Wetlands, a designated Special Protection Area for birds. During the summer, the marshes are home to breeding populations of little terns, a rare seabird species in Ireland. The area is also a wintering ground for various wildfowl and waders.

Avondale Forest Park

Avondale Forest Park, near Rathdrum, is another excellent spot for nature enthusiasts. The park covers over 500 acres and features a mix of woodland, parkland, and riverside habitats. Avondale House, the former home of Charles Stewart Parnell, one of Ireland’s most influential political leaders, is located within the park and is open to visitors. The park’s extensive network of trails makes it an ideal destination for walking, cycling, and birdwatching.

Culinary Delights

No visit to County Wicklow would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. The county’s fertile land and coastal waters provide an abundance of fresh, high-quality produce showcased in its many restaurants, cafés, and pubs.

Local Specialities

Wicklow lamb is a renowned local speciality known for its tender and flavourful meat. Many of the county’s restaurants feature Wicklow lamb on their menus, prepared in various traditional and contemporary dishes. Seafood is also a highlight, with fresh fish, mussels, and prawns sourced from the nearby Irish Sea.

Farmers’ Markets

Farmers’ markets are a great way to experience the best of Wicklow’s local produce. The markets offer many fresh fruits, vegetables, artisanal cheeses, homemade breads, and other delicacies. The Kilruddery Farm Market, held on Saturdays at Kilruddery House and Gardens, is one of the most popular in the county, attracting both locals and visitors with its high-quality offerings.

Pubs and Dining

County Wicklow boasts a vibrant pub scene, with many establishments offering a warm welcome, traditional music, and hearty fare. The Harbour Bar in Bray is a favourite among locals and tourists alike, known for its cosy atmosphere and live music sessions. For a more upscale dining experience, the Strawberry Tree Restaurant at BrookLodge & Macreddin Village offers an organic and wild menu that highlights the best local and seasonal ingredients.

Festivals and Events

Wicklow’s cultural calendar is filled with festivals and events celebrating the county’s heritage, arts, and natural beauty. From music and theatre to outdoor adventures, something is always happening in Wicklow.

Wicklow Arts Festival

The Wicklow Arts Festival, held annually in Wicklow, showcases the best local and national arts, including music, theatre, visual arts, and literature. The festival features performances, exhibitions, workshops, and family-friendly activities, allowing artists and performers to share their talents with the community.

Bray Air Display

The Bray Air Display is one of Ireland’s biggest and most spectacular air shows, attracting thousands of spectators to the seaside town of Bray each summer. The event features thrilling aerobatic displays by some of the world’s top pilots, as well as a variety of ground-based activities and entertainment.

Wicklow Mountains Marathon

For those who enjoy a physical challenge, the Wicklow Mountains Marathon is an annual event that tests participants’ endurance as they navigate a gruelling course through the rugged terrain of the Wicklow Mountains. The marathon attracts runners from all over the world, drawn by the stunning scenery and the opportunity to compete in one of Ireland’s most challenging races.

Get Planning Your Trip County Wicklow

I hope this guide has helped capture the true essence of County Wicklow, which will make you want to visit. The renowned ‘Garden of Ireland’ will not let you down. Wicklow is a place to find authentic Irish beauty.

Conclusion

County Wicklow offers something for everyone with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re exploring the ancient monastic sites of Glendalough, hiking the trails of the Wicklow Mountains, or simply enjoying the warm hospitality of its towns and villages, a visit to County Wicklow is an experience that will leave you with lasting memories. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and prepare to be enchanted by the Garden of Ireland.

Have you ever been to County Wicklow? Or is it on your Irish bucket list of places to visit? Share with ConnollyCove in the comments below.

The Devil’s Glen is one of the county’s hiking pathways and the perfect spot to get your steps in! County Wicklow was also important in Irish chef Darina Allen’s learning journey!