Wicklow National Park is only about a 40-minute drive south of Dublin, but you’ll feel as if you’re in an entirely different world, among some of Ireland’s most breathtaking scenery. In fact, you may have glimpsed it before, on television or film, as it’s been used as the setting for the History Channel’s “Viking” series, the 2007 romance film “P.S. I Love You,” and 1981’s popular “Excalibur,” among many others.
Lough Tay and the 'Vikings'
Incredible scenery and miles and miles of hikes to enjoy it abounds.
Fans of the “Vikings,” might want to head to Lough Tay, where the Luggala Mountains that surround the deep blue waters look surprisingly Scandinavian, offering the ideal backdrop for scenes set onboard the Vikings’ longships.
Lough Tay to Lough Dan Hike
Take the trek that leaves from just above Lough Tay to Lough Dan, a seven-mile round-trip hike, with much of it alongside a tranquil river. Even on the most beautiful sunny day, you may enjoy it all to yourself, seeing only deer along the way.
Scenic Walks Among the Heather and More
Scenic walks are what the park is most famous for, particularly in the summer and early fall when the heather is in bloom. You’ll get to see a sea of purple and maroon blanketed across the hills, while fields of bog cotton cover the landscape below.
The park offers a wealth of marked trails for all types of hikers, from easy to challenging, while visitors can also enjoy horse riding, mountain biking and climbing.
Glendalough
Glendalough is a highlight for many, and a place not-to-be-missed. It’s famous for its breathtaking vistas and ancient historic heritage. This is where you’ll find a 6th-century monastic settlement, complete with a Round Tower and fascinating ruins.
This area also hosts two beautiful lakes, numerous hiking trails, and climbers can take advantage of the stunning glacial valley, climbing sections like Hobnail Buttress, East Wing and Big Jane. There are also spots for picnicking, souvenir shops, snack stands, restaurants and more.
Powerscourt Waterfall
While you’re here, don’t miss the beautiful drive into nearby Enniskerry to visit Powerscourt Waterfall. This is the highest waterfall in the country. It was significantly featured in “Excalibur,” and is part of the “Excalibur Drive” which leads to other locations where scenes from the movie were filmed as well. That includes Loch Tay which served as the home of “The Lady of the Lake” in which the magic sword was thrown into the water.
Wicklow Mountains National Park
website: http://www.wicklowmountainsnationalpark.ie/
email: [email protected]
