Roundwood Travel Guide

Explore Roundwood with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local tips for your trip to Roundwood, Ireland.


Introduction to Roundwood

Roundwood is a charming village located in County Wicklow, Ireland, known for its stunning natural scenery, outdoor adventures, and rich history. Situated in the East Coast and Midlands region of Ireland, Roundwood offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or an action-packed adventure, Roundwood has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Roundwood

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Roundwood Historical & Folklore Society Museum - Discover the rich history of Roundwood and County Wicklow at the local museum. The museum features exhibits that showcase the heritage and culture of the village and the county.

  • Powerscourt House and Gardens - Visit the stunning Powerscourt House and Gardens, a beautiful estate with a rich history dating back to the 13th century. Explore the impressive house and the 47-acre garden with impressive botanical features and waterfalls.

  • Glendalough Monastic Site - Visit the famous monastic ruins of Glendalough, located just a short drive from Roundwood. The site houses a 6th-century monastery, a 12th-century round tower, and beautiful Celtic crosses.

Natural Attractions of Roundwood: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lough Dan- Enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Roundwood by visiting Lough Dan, a scenic lake located in the Wicklow Mountains National Park. Take a scenic drive, enjoy a picnic, or go on a hike around the lake.

  • Wicklow Way - Explore the scenic Wicklow Way hiking trail that runs through Roundwood, offering stunning views of the village and the surrounding countryside.

  • Sally Gap - Travel along the scenic road of Sally Gap, famous for its picturesque views of the Wicklow Mountains. The road offers a perfect option for a leisurely drive or a picnic.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Roundwood

Roundwood is a perfect destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The village offers numerous trails for all skill levels, including:

  • Wicklow Way, North to South - This trail runs through Roundwood and offers views of the beautiful Wicklow Mountains, forests, and valleys.

  • Vartry Reservoir Loop - Enjoy a leisurely bike ride or hike on this picturesque loop around the Vartry Reservoir.

  • The Spinc Trail - This hiking trail offers breathtaking views of the Glendalough Valley, including the Upper and Lower Lakes.

Best Things to Do in Roundwood: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking and Canoeing - Explore the beautiful Lough Dan and Vartry Reservoir by kayaking or canoeing with local tour operators.

  • Golfing - Play a round of golf at the Roundwood Golf Club, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

  • Horseback Riding - Enjoy a horseback riding tour with local tour operators, offering guided tours through the scenic countryside and mountain trails.

Week-Long Itinerary for Roundwood

Day 1: Visit the Roundwood Historical & Folklore Society Museum and enjoy a leisurely walk around the village.

Day 2: Hike or bike the Wicklow Way trail or Vartry Reservoir Loop.

Day 3: Visit the Glendalough Monastic Site and enjoy a picnic nearby.

Day 4: Enjoy a kayaking or canoeing tour in Lough Dan.

Day 5: Play a round of golf at Roundwood Golf Club and enjoy a meal at a local pub.

Day 6: Visit Powerscourt House and Gardens and enjoy a spa treatment at the hotel.

Day 7: Take a leisurely drive around Sally Gap and enjoy a picnic with stunning views.

Food and Drink Scene of Roundwood

Roundwood’s food and drink scene offers a mix of traditional Irish dishes and international cuisine. Local pubs and restaurants are known for their warm hospitality and using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Irish Stew - A hearty dish made with lamb, potatoes, and vegetables.

  • Fish and Chips - Freshly caught cod or haddock deep-fried in a crispy batter, served with chips and mushy peas.

  • Shepherd’s Pie - A filling dish made with ground beef or lamb, topped with mashed potatoes and baked.

Local Beverages

  • Guinness - A popular Irish stout that is rich and creamy in taste.

  • Irish Whiskey - Ireland’s famous whiskey, known for its smooth, flavorful taste.

  • Baileys Irish Cream - A popular whiskey and cream-based liqueur that is sweet and indulgent.

Where to Stay in Roundwood: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Roundwood offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets, from cozy guesthouses to luxurious hotels.

  • The Roundwood Inn - A family-friendly hotel located in the heart of the village, offering cozy rooms and tasty pub food.

  • Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa - A luxurious hotel in the nearby Powerscourt Estate, offering spa facilities and exquisite dining.

  • Roundwood House - A charming guesthouse with a rich history and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

What to Buy in Roundwood: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Crafts - Roundwood is home to a vibrant artistic community, offering a range of handmade crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

  • Local Food and Drink - Bring home a taste of Roundwood by buying locally produced cheese, beer, or whiskey.

Local Culture and Customs of Roundwood

Roundwood is known for its friendly, welcoming, and vibrant community. The village celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including the Roundwood Music and Arts Festival, the Roundwood Traditional Festival, and the Roundwood Country Fair.

Best Time to Visit Roundwood

The best time to visit Roundwood is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is at its warmest and sunniest. However, the village’s natural scenery is beautiful all year round, with colorful flowers in the spring and dramatic autumn foliage in the fall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Roundwood

Do:

  • Explore the beautiful Wicklow Mountains National Park.

  • Enjoy traditional Irish music and dance at local pubs and festivals.

  • Respect the local customs and culture.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the countryside.

  • Get too rowdy at local pubs and bars.

  • Ignore the natural beauty of Roundwood.

Safety and Health

Safety in Roundwood

Roundwood is a safe and friendly village, with very low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take the usual precautions, such as locking doors and windows, and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Roundwood

Roundwood’s healthcare services are some of the best in the region, with several doctors’ offices and pharmacies located in the village. In case of an emergency, dial 999 or 112 for immediate medical assistance.

Getting to Roundwood: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Roundwood

  • Dublin Airport - About 53 km to the north-east of Roundwood.

  • Ireland West Airport - About 170 km to the west of Roundwood.

Bus Stations Near Roundwood

  • Roundwood Bus Stop - located in the heart of the village, offering bus connections to Dublin and other nearby towns.

  • Wicklow Bus Station - A major bus station located 15 km south of Roundwood, offering connections to several destinations in Ireland.

Other Options

  • Car Rental - Renting a car is a perfect option for exploring the Wicklow Mountains and surrounding villages.

  • Taxi Services - Local taxi services are available in Roundwood for shorter trips and airport transfers.

How to Get Around in Roundwood

The best way to explore Roundwood’s natural beauty is by walking or biking. Several local tour operators offer guided tours of the scenic countryside.

Where to Go Next from Roundwood: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Wicklow Mountains National Park - Explore the stunning Wicklow Mountains National Park and nearby Glendalough.

  • Avoca Village - A charming village known for its breathtaking beauty and local crafts.

  • Bray - A seaside town located just 20 km north of Roundwood, offering a range of water activities and scenic views.

Conclusion

Roundwood is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and friendly community, Roundwood has something to offer for everyone. Follow our comprehensive tour guide to make the most of your trip to Roundwood, Ireland.

Vartry Reservoir Vartry Reservoir 19th century vista of the first reservoir at Roundwood 19th century vista of the first reservoir at Roundwood