Affectionately known as the “Garden of Ireland,” Wicklow County is one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Ireland, often overlooked but making it all the more of a hidden gem. Wicklow County is conveniently only an hour’s drive outside Dublin, making it an ideal destination for travellers wanting to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city without having to drive all the way across the country to places like Dingle or the Cliffs of Moher.
This day-long road trip will show you some of Ireland’s most breathtaking scenery, from tranquil lakes and historic monastery remains to quaint woollen mills and picturesque beaches. So buckle up, grab your camera, and explore Wicklow’s magic together. If you need help driving and renting a car in Ireland, you can read our guide to driving in Ireland here.
- Pack a Picnic Lunch!
- Map of Road Trip Itinerary through Wicklow County
- Powerscourt Waterfall
- Ballinastoe Boardwalk
- Aroma Coffee Van
- Glendalough Monastic Site
- Glendalough Parking
- The Round Tower
- Glendalough Cathedral
- Graveyard
- St. Kevin's Church
- Wicklow Mountains National Park Lakes
- Upper Lake
- Kevin's Bed
- Glendalough Woollen Mills
- Brittas Bay
- Avoca Handweavers Woolen Mill
- Afternoon Cream Tea
Pack a Picnic Lunch!
Before setting off, it’s a good idea to visit the nearest grocery store or corner shop to pick up some items for a picnic. This way, you’ll be all set for a fresh picnic lunch. Having a picnic on hand means you won’t have to worry about finding a place to eat. Instead, you can choose any spot that catches your eye and enjoy your meal in front of the stunning, picturesque sights that Wicklow County is renowned for.
Some of my favourite Irish grocery store staples that are perfect for a picnic are custard yogurt, sliced soda bread, Irish smoked salmon, rhubarb soda, Tayto crisps (cheese and onion is my fave), some fresh Irish produce (like strawberries!), sausage rolls, Irish cheddar cheese and some Mikado and/ok Kimberley biscuits. I also can never resist a meal deal sandwich from Tesco!
Map of Road Trip Itinerary through Wicklow County
Powerscourt Waterfall
The day’s first stop is at Powerscourt Waterfall, Ireland’s highest waterfall. Arriving here first thing in the morning is a great way to start the day since this spot gets very busy, and early morning means you have the place to yourself (or at least as close to that as possible).
Nestled within the Powerscourt Estate, the falls are encircled by verdant forests with beech, oak, and pine trees. The serene woodland environment and the sound of the falling water make this the ideal location for a breakfast picnic or just sitting and admiring the view. The falls are a short walk from the parking lot, so you don’t have to worry about it being a long hike to see this spectacular sight. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and start your day peacefully.
Admission: Adult €7.50 | Family €19.00
Ballinastoe Boardwalk
The Ballinastoe Boardwalk is one of the most relaxing and immersive walks through the lush forests, open moorlands, and elevated boardwalks that protect the fragile boglands of this magical slice of Ireland. The hike begins at the parking lot near Lough Tay with a gentle incline through a woodland path surrounded by tall trees. The forest canopy offers dappled sunlight, and the air is fresh with the scent of pine. As you ascend, the trail reveals sweeping views of the Wicklow Mountains and Lough Tay. The walk only takes about 30 minutes, so it’s a great little jaunt that does not take up too much time in the day.
Aroma Coffee Van
If you’re lucky enough to come on a Saturday, stop just near the entrance to the Ballinastoe Boardwalk, where you’ll find the Aroma Coffee Van! This quaint, mobile establishment serves as a delightful stopover for tourists and locals exploring the picturesque surroundings with various high-quality beverages, including rich, aromatic coffees, indulgent hot chocolates, fresh pastries and homemade cakes, all prepared daily.
Glendalough Monastic Site
Hopping back in the car, you set out for a scenic 20-minute drive to the historic Glendalough Monastic Site. Glendalough is one of Ireland’s most famous early Christian sites in a glacial valley. The site dates back to the 6th century when it was founded by St. Kevin, a hermit monk who sought solitude amidst the serene beauty of the Wicklow mountains. Over the centuries, it flourished into a vibrant monastic settlement, becoming a hub of learning and spirituality. The rich history of this place is sure to pique your interest.
Glendalough Parking
The best place to park is at the Glendalough Lower Car Park; I find this lot a little bigger and less busy than the Upper parking lots. Parking for cars costs €4. After parking the car, you have free reign over the ancient sites and serene lakes. There is a charge to enter the visitor’s center, but I would just skip this and follow this guide to get the gist of the historical information.
The Round Tower
One of the most important sites is the Round Tower. Rising 30 meters high, the old stone tower was built between the 10th and 12th centuries to serve as a bell tower to call monks to prayer, a lookout, and a place of refuge during attacks. The reason it was so secure was that the entrance to the tower was set over three meters above ground. The tower is encircled with four small windows facing the cardinal directions, further reflecting the practical and symbolic design, representing the monks’ devotion and connection to the divine. Its stone craftsmanship is a marvel of early Irish engineering.
Glendalough Cathedral
The Glendalough Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul, is now little more than a stone ruin dating back to the 10th century. The old mica schist stones, which remain, showcase a mix of Irish architectural styles that have evolved over centuries, with the most impressive remaining structure being the beautiful chancel arch, a hallmark of Romanesque designs from medieval stonemasons.
Graveyard
The cathedral is set amidst the ancient graveyard, a hauntingly beautiful space filled with ancient headstones and Celtic crosses. A distinctive feature of the Celtic cross is the circle intersecting the arms of the cross, often interpreted as a representation of eternity. These weathered markers, some dating back centuries, hold the remains of monks who would have lived here along with local inhabitants. Many grave markers are simple and unadorned, reflecting the monastic values of humility and simplicity.
St. Kevin’s Church
St. Kevin’s Church, often affectionately called “St. Kevin’s Kitchen,” is one of the most charming and well-preserved structures at the Glendalough Monastic Site. Despite the nickname, it was never a kitchen; the name likely arose from the small bell tower that resembles a chimney. This stone church exemplifies early Irish ecclesiastical architecture and offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the monks who once worshiped there.
Wicklow Mountains National Park Lakes
After touring the heritage historical sites, take a short walk and wander through the Wicklow Mountains National Park. The forest and surrounding lakes are home to various wildlife, including birds, foxes and red deer, which we were lucky to see on our visit! The breathtaking beauty of this park is sure to inspire you.
The nearby forest trail, rich with lush greenery, takes you towards the tranquil Lower and Upper Lakes. These two lakes, formed during the last Ice Age, are surrounded by dramatic mountain slopes, creating a timeless Irish landscape.
Upper Lake
If you’re looking for a more secluded view, keep walking towards the Upper Lake, the largest of the two and home to some of the most beautiful reflective waters, which framed the steep cliffs and dense woodlands above. This lake is a great spot to enjoy a picnic lunch, or if you head towards the back of the Upper Lake parking lot, you can find a series of food trucks where you can buy cheese toasties, ice cream and more. The prices aren’t too bad but obviously high considering the remote location. The food options include a variety of sandwiches, hot and cold drinks, and local specialties like Irish stew and soda bread.
Kevin’s Bed
10 meters above the Upper Lake, you can spot St. Kevin’s Bed, a small, ancient cave. It is a legend that St. Kevin escaped here to avoid distractions and focus instead on his spiritual connection with God. He spent years living there in deep, isolated contemplation, and the cave today remains a symbol of St. Kevin’s unwavering faith and dedication.
Glendalough Woollen Mills
Just a stone’s throw from the historic Glendalough monastic site, Glendalough Woollen Mills is a family-owned treasure celebrating over six decades of Irish craftsmanship. Renowned for its exquisite selection of handcrafted knitwear, the mill offers traditional Aran sweaters, contemporary designs, tweed garments, and accessories for all ages, many of which are created by local artisans. Set beside a tranquil stream and a picturesque 18th-century stone bridge, the mill creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere where visitors can explore authentic Irish-made products. This was one of the best-priced woollen mills with authentic products that felt like you were shopping from the local farmer. We will also be shopping at the famed Avoca wollen mill later in the itinerary, but Avoca, being a royal wollen mill, is much more pricey, and the designers are more modern. Meanwhile, Glendalough Woollen Mills offers a genuine taste of Ireland’s rich textile and artistic heritage.
Brittas Bay
From here, we get back on the road for a scenic journey through the picturesque landscapes of County Wicklow towards the iconic Irish coastline. As you descend from the mountains, the terrain softens, giving way to charming rural countryside dotted with quaint farms, stone walls, and grazing sheep. Brittas Bay greets you with its sweeping golden sands and gently rolling dunes, a sharp contrast to the rugged mountains of Glendalough, all within less than an hour’s drive of each other.
Brittas Bay is known for its pristine beauty, with a bay that stretches for 3 miles, framed by grassy dunes and sparkling blue waters. Parking at Brittas Bay is free outside during busy summer months when parking costs €4 (cash or card). Even when we visited in the spring, there were open toilets, a small selection of chip trucks, and ice cream vans, perfect for a little snack to enjoy as you watch the waves crash on the shore. Or, if it’s warm enough, take a little dip!
Avoca Handweavers Woolen Mill
The last stop of the drive is to visit Avoca Handweavers in the quaint village of Avoca. Established in 1723, Avoca Handweavers is celebrated as Ireland’s oldest working weaving mill, where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary design. Upon arrival, you’re greeted by the charming whitewashed buildings of the mill, snuggled up along the tranquil Avoca River.
If you arrive before the end of the day, you can even take a guided tour of the mill, which provides deeper insight into the journey through the weaving process. Skilled artisans demonstrate the art of handweaving on looms, some of which have been in operation for generations. Over the years, Avoca’s beautifully crafted woven products have been gifted to members of the royal family, including a waistcoat for King George VI and blankets for Queen Elizabeth II’s children, and there are letters written from the sovereign to thank Avoca in their onsite museum.
Following the tour, the Avoca Store awaits, showcasing a stunning array of the mill’s products. Each item reflects the meticulous artistry synonymous with Avoca, from colourful woven throws in mohair, Donegal wool, and cashmere to beautifully crafted scarves, clothing, and baby blankets.
Afternoon Cream Tea
To complement the shopping experience, the onsite café offers a cozy retreat. You can get some of their delicious homemade quiches, freshly prepared sandwiches, hearty soups, or delectable sweet treats. But my favourite thing is ordering an afternoon cream tea with a fresh pot of tea, warm scone and jam cream. If the weather is good enough, you can take your tray down to the river, where a few picnic tables are set up to enjoy your tea in the peace and quiet of the river’s edge.
As your Wicklow road trip approaches, you’ll carry with you the timeless beauty of Glendalough’s ancient ruins, the tranquillity of the Wicklow Mountains, and the immeasurable hidden gems you discovered along the way. Whether it’s the thrill of winding roads, peaceful nature hikes, or the charming villages you pass through, you may feel a little of Ireland’s beauty at every stop.
Happy Travels, Adventurers
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