The Mountains of Wicklow: lakes, mountains and Celtic legends just an hour from Dublin

A land of legends...

Located less than 50 km from Dublin, it takes less than an hour from the Irish capital to discover an exceptional area, far from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Popular with Dubliners thanks to its proximity to the city, the Wicklow Mountains Nature Park offers a complete change of scenery.

This mountain range is of major natural interest, with its peaty and rocky moors and peaceful lakes. Both the panorama and the atmosphere are enchanting. More than just an expression, the Forest of the Mountains of Wicklow is said to be enchanted by the presence of surreal little creatures from Irish folklore, such as fairies, elves and leprechauns. A trip to the Mountains of Wicklow is the perfect opportunity to seek out these typically Irish characters.

... to discover on foot or by car

Whether you're a keen sportsman or not, you can visit the Monts de Wicklow Park by car or on foot. From south Dublin, it takes just a few kilometres to reach the R115, which crosses the natural park from north to south. To get a little deeper into the heart of the moors, take the R756, which weaves its way between the various mountains on the site, the highest of which, Lugnaquilla, rises to 925 metres.

This road offers a variety of views of the park's landscapes. If you have time, don't hesitate to branch off onto the R758 to reach Dave's Rock and enjoy a majestic panorama of Lake Liffey.

The more sporty visitors will be delighted to be able to explore the nature park on foot, thanks to the Wicklow Way, a 130-kilometre signposted footpath. In fact, it's one of the longest walking routes in Ireland. It passes through a multitude of landscapes, including mountains, lakes and valleys, as well as places less familiar to tourists, such as enchanting forests and mysterious ruins.

The Wicklow Way links the southern suburbs of Dublin with the village of Clonegal, in County Carlow, but it is possible to do only the sections within the nature park, so as not to leave the Wicklow mountains behind.

Powerscourt Estate, an imposing 18th-century manor house

If you're passing through County Wicklow, it would be a shame not to visit the Powerscourt Estate, a gigantic 19-hectare estate whose centrepiece is an 18th-century residence, or rather manor house.

Conceived and designed by the architect Daniel Robertson, the estate remains a unique site thanks to its architecture worthy of Renaissance villas, but also for its lush and enchanting gardens. Each has its own identity. Together, the Italian Garden, the Japanese Garden and the Walled Garden are rated by National Geographic as the 3rd best garden in the world.

Powerscourt Waterfall, Ireland's highest waterfall

If a visit to the Powerscourt estate impresses you, wait until you see the eponymous waterfall. At 121 metres, it is the highest waterfall in Ireland. The water cascades spectacularly down the steep, rocky slope. It's impossible not to marvel at this force of nature, hidden away in the estate's garden. Let the sound of the water guide you to this majestic waterfall.

An ancient village steeped in mystery

Situated in the south of the Wicklow Mountains Natural Park, in the heart of County Wicklow, the monastic village of Glendalough is both rural and historic, offering an unusual and curious discovery. Dating back to the 6th century, the monastery of Glendalough was built by the priest Saint Kevin, who decided to live as a hermit. Over the years, several disciples joined him and developed Glendalough. Churches, dwellings and community centres formed a thriving little village until 1398, when it was devastated by the English.

Since then, only the ruins bear witness to this monastic past, such as the Celtic cemetery and the watchtower. Today, Glendalough is a major tourist attraction in Ireland. It can be visited every day between 8am and 6pm. An exhibition traces the history of Glendalough and describes the life of the priests in the monastery.

A diversion to Miners Village, the abandoned village

Before leaving the Wicklow Mountains Park, one last curiosity intrigues us... An important mining region in the past, the Mountains of Wicklow Nature Park is home to Miners Village, a testament to its mining history. The ruins give visitors a glimpse of the old infrastructure, such as the old village walls.

The Miners Walk, which takes you around the village, offers a pleasant walk along the north shore of Upper Lake.

Where to stay in Dublin, not far from the Wicklow Mountains?