County Wicklow Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture in County Wicklow, Ireland. This comprehensive travel guide provides you with everything you need to plan your trip.


Introduction to County Wicklow

County Wicklow, located on the east coast of Ireland, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and outdoor adventures. From the Wicklow Mountains to the Irish Sea, visitors are drawn to this region for its stunning views, charming towns, and historical sites.

This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to County Wicklow by providing you with information on places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, accommodation options, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations.

List of Places to Visit in County Wicklow

County Wicklow has a wide range of attractions to offer, from culturally significant museums to natural wonders. Below are some of the must-visit places.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you are looking to explore Ireland’s rich history and culture, County Wicklow has a lot to offer. Some of the top museums and historical places to add to your itinerary are:

  • Glendalough Monastic Site: A 6th-century monastic settlement situated in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park, Glendalough Monastic Site features historic ruins, a medieval round tower, and scenic hiking trails.
  • Wicklow Gaol: A former prison that has been converted into a museum, Wicklow Gaol offers visitors a glimpse into Ireland’s dark past through an interactive tour.
  • Powerscourt House and Gardens: A magnificent estate featuring lush gardens, an impressive waterfall, and a historic mansion, Powerscourt House and Gardens is a popular tourist attraction that offers something for everyone.

Natural Attractions of County Wicklow: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

County Wicklow is known for its wild beauty and stunning landscapes. Here are some of the best outdoor adventures and scenic spots to check out:

  • Wicklow Mountains National Park: Covering over 20,000 hectares of wild upland, Wicklow Mountains National Park is home to a diverse range of habitats and offers visitors an opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty through hiking, biking and more.
  • Sally Gap: Located in the Wicklow Mountains, Sally Gap is a famous scenic drive with picturesque views of lakes, mountains, and rolling hills.
  • Brittas Bay: A beautiful sandy beach that spans 5 km and features crystal-clear waters and scenic sand dunes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of County Wicklow

County Wicklow is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with a wide network of hiking and biking trails that offer a chance to explore the region’s natural beauty. Below are some of the most popular routes for hiking and biking:

  • Wicklow Way: A famous long-distance hiking trail that stretches over 130 km and covers some of Wicklow’s most stunning landscapes.
  • Glendalough Spinc and Glenealo Valley Walk: A 10 km moderate hike that provides amazing views of Glendalough Valley and its surroundings.
  • Ballinastoe Woods Bike Trail: A popular mountain biking trail that features a mix of technical trails and fun downhill sections.

Best Things to Do in County Wicklow: Activities and Tours

County Wicklow has a lot of activities to offer, no matter what your interests are. Here are some of our favorite things to do in the region:

  • Take a scenic drive along the coast: County Wicklow’s coastal drive offers stunning views of the Irish Sea and beyond.
  • Visit a local craft brewery and enjoy a pint of Guinness: Wicklow’s craft beer scene is booming, with several local breweries offering tours and tastings.
  • Go horseback riding in the countryside: Riding stables such as Brennanstown Riding School offer guided tours that allow you to explore the scenic countryside on horseback.

Week-Long Itinerary for County Wicklow

If you have a week to explore County Wicklow, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Visit Glendalough Monastic Site and take a hike in the Wicklow Mountains National Park.

Day 2: Explore Wicklow’s coast and stop at Bray, Greystones and Dalkey.

Day 3: Visit Powerscourt House and Gardens and take a scenic drive through Sally Gap to Lough Tay.

Day 4: Bike through Ballinastoe Woods and take a guided tour of Wicklow’s craft breweries.

Day 5: Spend a day at Brittas Bay and enjoy some seaside activities such as sunbathing, swimming, or surfing.

Day 6: Go on a horseback riding tour through the county’s countryside.

Day 7: Spend a day in Dublin, the capital of Ireland, with a range of activities to choose from such as visiting the Guinness Storehouse Museum, the Irish Museum of Modern Art, or just wandering around the city’s lively streets.

Food and Drink Scene of County Wicklow

County Wicklow is known for its locally-sourced and organic food, with a focus on fresh seafood, meats and dairy.

Must-Try Dishes

Sample some of the best traditional dishes in the region such as:

  • Irish Stew: A hearty dish made with lamb, potatoes, onions, and carrots cooked in a broth.
  • Seafood Chowder: A rich soup made with fresh seafood such as mussels, clams, and salmon.
  • Bangers and Mash: A traditional Irish dish made with sausages, mashed potatoes, and gravy.

Local Beverages

County Wicklow is home to several craft breweries, such as Wicklow Brewery, O’Brother Brewing, and the Wicklow Wolf Brewing Company. Alternately, some great options include:

  • Guinness Stout: A dark beer with a creamy texture and rich malty flavor.
  • Irish whiskey: Made from malted and unmalted grains, Irish whiskey features a smooth and subtle flavor.

Where to Stay in County Wicklow: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

County Wicklow has a wide range of accommodations to fit any budget. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Tinakilly Country House: A luxury hotel and former country estate offering elegant rooms, a restaurant, and a cozy bar.
  • The Wicklow Hotel: A budget-friendly option for travelers, the Wicklow Hotel features comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
  • Lough Dan House: A charming guesthouse offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere, beautiful views of Lough Dan, and direct access to the Wicklow Way.

What to Buy in County Wicklow: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

County Wicklow has plenty of unique items to buy as souvenirs or gifts for loved ones back home. Here are some of the best local products to bring home:

  • Irish wool products: such as scarves, sweater, caps, made from high-quality wool to keep you warm.
  • Hiking and biking maps and guidebooks: For those who love the outdoors, these books are a perfect gift.
  • Locally-made crafts: Check out cute pieces like pottery, candles, jewelry, and paintings made by local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of County Wicklow

County Wicklow has a rich and vibrant culture, influenced by its natural beauty, ancient heritage and close-knit communities. Visitors should be aware of local customs and etiquette, such as:

  • Tipping: Tipping is not expected in pubs or bars, but in restaurants, it is common to leave a 10-15% tip.
  • Greetings: When greeting locals in County Wicklow, a simple “hello” with a smile and a handshake is usually sufficient.
  • Punctuality: Irish people value being on time, so make sure to arrive on time for any planned events.

Best Time to Visit County Wicklow

The best time to visit County Wicklow is during the summer months (June-August). During this period, you will experience the region’s best hiking and biking weather and most vibrant cultural events.

Do’s and Don’ts of County Wicklow

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • explore the region’s natural beauty through hiking and biking.
  • Try traditional Irish foods and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter the countryside.
  • Leave valuables unattended in rural areas.
  • Disturb wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in County Wicklow

County Wicklow is generally a safe place to visit, but visitors should exercise caution when driving on rural roads or hiking in the mountains. Always take necessary precautions, such as wearing appropriate clothing when out in nature, and follow the guidance of park rangers or tour guides if you encounter dangerous wildlife or if weather conditions change suddenly.

Health in County Wicklow

Visitors should take precautions against tick-borne illnesses when hiking in the countryside. Consider wearing long clothing and using tick repellent. Additionally, make sure you have adequate travel insurance before your trip.

Getting to County Wicklow: Transportation Options and Logistics

County Wicklow is easily accessible from Dublin, with a range of transportation options available:

Airports Near County Wicklow

  • Dublin Airport: The main international airport in Dublin, with frequent flights to major cities in Europe and North America.

Bus Stations Near County Wicklow

  • Dublin Bus: Regular bus service from Dublin to County Wicklow and surrounding areas.
  • Bus Éireann: Operates inter-city and regional bus services throughout Ireland.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Renting a car is a great way to explore County Wicklow on your own schedule.
  • Train: The Irish Rail provides a train service from Dublin to Bray and Wicklow towns.

How to Get Around in County Wicklow

Getting around in County Wicklow is easy with several transportation options, depending on where you are traveling:

  • By Car: Rent a car to travel to the more remote or rural areas of County Wicklow.
  • By Bus: Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann offer regular bus services between towns in County Wicklow.
  • By Train: Irish Rail provides train services between Dublin and Wicklow towns, with stops at major tourist destinations.

Where to Go Next from County Wicklow: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

County Wicklow is a perfect starting point for exploring some of the best attractions in Ireland. Here are some great places to visit near County Wicklow:

  • Dublin: The capital city of Ireland has a vibrant culture and rich history, and is just a short train ride from Wicklow’s major towns.
  • Waterford: Famous for its distinctive crystal, Waterford is a historic city located on Ireland’s southeast coast.
  • Kilkenny: A medieval city located in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, Kilkenny is known for its charming narrow streets, fine dining, and cultural heritage.

Conclusion

County Wicklow is a stunning destination that offers visitors an opportunity to explore the wild beauty and rich cultural heritage of Ireland. Whether you are interested in hiking and biking, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing, County Wicklow has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you have everything you need to plan your trip to County Wicklow.

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