Interesting places to visit near Wicklow, Ireland

Location: Enniskerry, County Wicklow, Ireland, just a short drive south of Dublin, Powerscourt Estate offers a picturesque escape into Ireland’s rich heritage and natural beauty. Best For: Nature Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, Garden Aficionados, Foodies Why it's a great detour: Powerscourt Estate is renowned for its stunning 47-acre gardens, which blend formal Italian and Japanese styles with sweeping views of the Wicklow Mountains. This historic estate combines cultural heritage with lush landscapes, making it a perfect stop for travelers seeking tranquility, beauty, and a taste of Irish history just outside the bustling city. Key activities: Visitors can explore the meticulously maintained gardens featuring terraces, fountains, and a pet cemetery, wander through the Japanese and walled gardens, and climb the steps to the iconic Powerscourt Waterfall nearby. The estate also houses a charming village with boutique shops, cafes, and a renowned cookery school, ideal for food lovers. Kid-friendly focus: The expansive gardens provide plenty of space for children to explore safely, and the variety of garden styles keeps young minds engaged. While there are no dedicated playgrounds, the natural environment and open spaces make it a great family outing. Dog-friendly notes: Dogs are welcome in the gardens and surrounding estate grounds, making it an excellent detour for travelers with pets. Just be sure to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them to preserve the estate’s pristine condition.

Location: Nestled in County Wicklow, Ireland, Blessington Lakes offers a picturesque escape just a short drive from Dublin, perfect for travelers seeking authentic Irish countryside charm. Best For: Nature Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Foodies, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly Why it's a great detour: Blessington Lakes combines stunning natural beauty with rich history and vibrant local culture. Visitors can enjoy peaceful lakeside walks, explore historic landmarks such as the Poulaphouca Reservoir and Blessington Castle ruins, and indulge in artisan food markets featuring local Irish produce. This blend of outdoor adventure, heritage, and culinary delights makes it an enriching stop for diverse interests. Key activities: Hiking and cycling around the scenic lakes, visiting historic sites, sampling fresh artisan cheeses and baked goods at local markets, boating on the reservoir, and picnicking in family-friendly parks. Kid-friendly focus: The area is ideal for families, with safe walking trails, open spaces for children to play, and interactive nature experiences that engage young explorers. Dog-friendly notes: Blessington Lakes is very welcoming to dogs, with ample trails and open areas for pets to roam and enjoy the outdoors alongside their owners.

Location: Howth, a picturesque fishing village located on the northern coast of Dublin, Ireland, offers a refreshing escape just a short drive from the city center. Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, History Enthusiasts, Foodies, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly Why it's a great detour: Howth combines stunning coastal scenery with rich maritime history and vibrant local culture. Visitors can enjoy invigorating cliff walks with panoramic views of the Irish Sea, explore historic sites like Howth Castle, and savor authentic Irish seafood in charming village pubs and restaurants. This blend of natural beauty and culinary delight makes Howth an ideal detour for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Key activities: Take the famous Howth Cliff Path Loop for spectacular sea views and birdwatching, visit the bustling Howth Market for local crafts and fresh produce, explore the historic Howth Castle and its gardens, and indulge in freshly caught seafood at renowned eateries such as The Oar House Fish Restaurant. Kid-friendly focus: The coastal paths are generally accessible for families with young children, with several shorter, safer walking routes available. The harbor area offers opportunities to watch fishing boats and enjoy ice cream by the sea, making it a delightful experience for kids. Dog-friendly notes: Howth is very welcoming to dogs, with many walking trails suitable for leashed pets and several pet-friendly cafes where dogs can join their owners. The open coastal environment provides plenty of space for dogs to explore safely.