Wicklow Archives - Ireland Family Vacations

Dark tourism in Ireland covers more ground than most travelers expect, from famine memorials and workhouses to ghost tours, ancient beliefs, and haunted castles. For travelers interested in Irish history, genealogy, folklore, or the stories that don’t fit neatly into the usual castles-and-cliffs itinerary, these places can add another layer of understanding to a trip.

Ireland’s history isn’t only castles and beautiful landscapes. It is also hardship, conflict, famine, emigration, ancient beliefs, and centuries of traditions surrounding death.

Many travelers already visit places connected to this history without ever thinking of what they’re doing as “dark tourism.”

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Luisa Golz has looked at the subject from both an academic and tourism perspective. Her PhD research focused on festivals with dark themes, and her work planning private Ireland itineraries gives her a very practical view of why travelers seek these places out – and how they can experience them respectfully.

This article is based on podcast episode 353 featuring Luisa Golz, Director of Sales at Desmond Tours.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

The phrase dark tourism is relatively new, coined by academics in the mid-1990s, but the idea certainly isn’t.

At its simplest, dark tourism means visiting places connected with death, tragedy, disaster, suffering, or the macabre. Some researchers have traced the impulse as far back as ancient Rome, when people traveled to the Colosseum to watch gladiatorial combat.

But not every dark tourism experience is equally dark.

At one end of the spectrum are places directly connected with suffering and death: famine sites, workhouses, battlefields, memorials, and locations where people died.

At the lighter end are ghost tours, gothic attractions, haunted castles, folklore experiences, and Halloween festivals.

That distinction matters when planning a trip. A ghost walk through medieval Kilkenny is entertainment wrapped in history. A famine memorial may ask something quite different of a visitor.

One reason is something academics call locational authenticity – the experience of standing in the actual place where history happened.

Dunmore Cave, about 20 minutes from Kilkenny City, is a good example. Visitors descend into a dramatic limestone cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites, but the site also has a grim history. The Annals of the Four Masters record a Viking attack there in the 10th century in which a large number of people sheltering inside were killed.

Knowing that history changes the experience of walking into the cave.

Another motivation is simply curiosity. Ireland has centuries of invasion, rebellion, famine, emigration, and political upheaval to explore, and sometimes understanding those difficult chapters gives much-needed context to the places travelers are already visiting.

Then there is the physical experience of being somewhere.

At the Dunbrody Famine Ship in New Ross, County Wexford, visitors don’t simply read about emigration during the Great Famine. They can go below deck and see the cramped space passengers endured on the Atlantic crossing.

The low ceilings and close quarters make the history much harder to keep at arm’s length.

There isn’t one neat “dark tourism trail” through Ireland. These stories appear all over the country, and that’s actually what makes them so easy to weave into an existing itinerary.

Articles like this highlight a few great options — but they’re just a small part of what Ireland offers.

The Ireland Travel Compass brings together hundreds of places across the country and helps you understand how to combine them into a trip that feels balanced and easy to navigate.

Halloween is probably the easiest entry point into the lighter side of dark tourism.

Its origins are closely connected with Samhain, the ancient festival marking the transition into winter. Traditions surrounding this time of year included the belief that the boundary between this world and the Otherworld became easier to cross.

Today, Ireland has embraced that connection with multiple festivals and celebrations including Púca Festival, Derry Halloween, and Dublin’s Bram Stoker Festival.

These events can make darker themes such as fear, death, spirits, and old folklore, more approachable. There’s plenty of entertainment involved, but there’s also an opportunity to understand why Ireland has such a strong connection to Halloween in the first place.

They offer another practical advantage for travelers: timing.

Ireland’s busiest touring season is winding down by mid-October. Halloween events at the end of the month give autumn travelers another reason to visit when days are shorter, crowds are often lighter, and the atmosphere is quite different from midsummer.

The idea of a “thin place” is harder to define, but easy enough to understand when standing in the right place on the right day.

These are locations where the distance between the physical and spiritual worlds is said to feel especially slight.

Grange Stone Circle at Lough Gur in County Limerick and the Rock of Dunamase in County Laois are two places where the idea feels particularly fitting.

Neither needs a ghost story attached to make an impression. Add an early-November mist, fading afternoon light, and the knowledge that people have gathered in Ireland’s ancient landscapes for thousands of years, and the atmosphere does most of the work.

The Great Famine is one of the darkest periods in Irish history, and its effects can be traced across the island.

For genealogy travelers, these places can be especially powerful. Many Americans arrive in Ireland knowing an ancestor emigrated sometime in the mid-1800s. Understanding what was happening in Ireland at the time can turn a name and date on a family tree into something much more human.

The National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park in County Roscommon is a good place to begin for historical context.

The Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship in Dublin brings the emigrant journey to life, while the Irish Workhouse Centre in Portumna shows another side of poverty and survival.

At Doagh Famine Village in County Donegal, it was a simple display that stayed with Luisa: a wooden table showing the meager foods a family might have relied upon – potatoes, seaweed, and mussels.

Sometimes a small detail tells the story better than a wall full of dates.

The Doolough Valley and a Walk Made in Desperation

One of the most memorable famine sites is also one travelers can easily miss.

The Doolough Famine Memorial stands in a striking valley near Louisburgh in County Mayo.

In March 1849, starving people walked roughly 20 kilometers from Louisburgh toward Delphi seeking assistance. After failing to receive the relief they desperately needed, they had to make the journey back. Some died along the way.

The memorial itself is small against the mountains, road, and water surrounding it.

That landscape is part of what makes the story so affecting. On a quiet autumn day, with low light across the valley, it isn’t difficult to imagine how punishing that journey must have been for people already weakened by hunger.

It is beautiful country, but this is one of those places where the beauty and the history need to be held together.

The simplest advice is also the most useful: know where you are.

Before arriving, learn enough about a site to understand its significance. A few minutes of reading can completely change how you experience a place.

Local guides can be invaluable, too. They provide more than names and dates; a good guide can explain traditions, point out details a visitor would otherwise miss, and help travelers understand when normal vacation behavior might be inappropriate.

And slow down.

Not every stop needs to be photographed from six angles before moving on to the next item on the itinerary.

Glendalough offers a very practical example. Some graves are marked with flat stone slabs that can be easy to mistake for ordinary paving. Visitors sometimes walk directly across them without realizing someone is buried beneath their feet.

There is usually no disrespect intended. They simply don’t know what they’re looking at.

Awareness changes that.

Luisa Golz is Director of Sales at Desmond Tours, a private tour company specializing in customized travel around Ireland.

Desmond Tours creates private itineraries for couples, families, and groups, matching travelers with a driver-guide who remains with them throughout their journey. The company can also arrange accommodations and activities as part of the itinerary.

For travelers particularly interested in Ireland’s darker history and folklore, Luisa’s academic research gives her an unusual depth of knowledge when helping decide which experiences make sense – and, just as importantly, how to balance them with the rest of a vacation.

Desmond Tours offers free itinerary consultations for travelers considering a private tour. The company can be contacted through its website or at [email protected].

Looking for inspiration? Check out their socials on Facebook & Instagram.

Marsh’s Library, Dublin

Beside St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Marsh’s Library has original wire reading cages once used to prevent book theft, damage dating to the 1916 Easter Rising, and a connection to Dracula author Bram Stoker, who studied here while attending Trinity College.

Kilkenny Ghost Tours

Kilkenny’s medieval streets make a fitting backdrop for stories of witchcraft, ghosts, and local folklore. An evening walking tour is an entertaining way to explore the lighter side of dark tourism while learning more about the city’s history.

Kinnitty Castle, County Offaly

For a dark tourism experience you can actually sleep in, Kinnitty Castle delivers plenty of gothic atmosphere. The historic castle hotel has a haunted reputation, plus a fairy garden and stone circle on the grounds.
One practical note: there’s no elevator, so don’t arrive with big luggage you aren’t prepared to carry upstairs.

Luisa also recommends The Darkness Echoing: Exploring Ireland’s Places of Famine, Death and Rebellion by Gillian O’Brien for travelers who want to explore the subject further.

What is dark tourism?

Dark tourism is travel to places associated with death, tragedy, disaster, suffering, or macabre history. The definition can also include lighter experiences such as ghost tours, haunted locations, gothic attractions, and Halloween events.

Is dark tourism in Ireland only about the Great Famine?

No. Famine history is an important part of it, but dark tourism in Ireland can also include Viking history, rebellion and conflict, workhouses, folklore, ghost stories, haunted castles, ancient beliefs surrounding death, and Halloween traditions.

How does Halloween relate to dark tourism in Ireland?

Halloween has strong connections to the ancient festival of Samhain and traditions surrounding the transition into winter and the Otherworld. Modern Irish festivals combine that heritage with storytelling, folklore, performance, and plenty of entertainment.

Is dark tourism appropriate for families?

It depends entirely on the site and the children. A ghost tour or Halloween festival may work well for some families, while locations dealing directly with famine, death, or human suffering may require more preparation or may not be appropriate for younger children.

Should you plan an entire Ireland trip around dark tourism?

Probably not, unless it is a particular passion. For most travelers, adding a few carefully chosen experiences to a broader itinerary creates a better balance.

The Ireland Travel Compass brings together hundreds of places across the country and helps you turn ideas like these into a trip that fits your time and travel style.

Dark tourism isn’t really as niche as the name makes it sound. Travelers encounter it throughout Ireland, sometimes without realizing it — aboard a famine ship in Wexford, walking through an old graveyard, hearing ghost stories in Kilkenny, or standing beside a memorial in a lonely Mayo valley.

The key isn’t to collect as many dark sites as possible. Choose the stories that add something to the places you’re already visiting, understand what happened before you arrive, and give yourself enough time to really take it in.

Ireland’s difficult stories are part of its story, too.

The post Ireland’s Darker Side: Famine Sites, Ghost Tours, and Haunted Castles Worth Visiting appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital and home to the country’s busiest airport, is a no-brainer starting (or ending) point for your Irish adventure.

There’s plenty to see and do in Dublin—you could easily spend a few days soaking up the sights, history, and pints—but don’t stop there! Some of Ireland’s most incredible spots are just a day trip away.

The best part? You don’t even need a car to get out and explore. Whether you prefer to do your own thing or hop on a guided tour, there are loads of great options.

Below, I’ve rounded up 6 fantastic day trips from Dublin you can do on your own or with a tour group, plus one can’t-miss experience that’s only available as a guided tour—and a couple I’d recommend skipping altogether.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 261.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article & get tour links.

No banner ads. No clutter. Just trusted travel partners.
Keeping this website free of intrusive advertising is important to me. If you choose to book or purchase through one of my trusted partner links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you, helping keep my Ireland travel resources free and focused on what you need for your Ireland trip.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Learn more in my full disclosure.

Dublin might be perched on Ireland’s east coast, but thanks to its great bus and train links, it’s a perfect jumping-off point for exploring all over the island.

In the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, just 30 minutes south of Dublin, the hermit monk St. Kevin founded a settlement that would become one of the country’s great ecclesiastical centres of learning. The remains of the monastic city, including the round tower, date from the 10th-12th centuries.

Do It Yourself day trip from Dublin Hop aboard the Glendalough Bus at St. Steven’s Green. Spend time in the Glendalough Visitor Centre (an OPW Heritage site) before exploring the monastic site. Wear good hiking boots and dress in layers to get out end enjoy some of the nearby marked walking trails. 

Join a Guided Tour You’ll find quite a few tour options that will take you through the Wicklow Mountains to Glendalough, and some will even include the magnificent Powerscourt Estate.

The village of Malahide is a terrific half-day getaway from Dublin.

Do It Yourself day trip from Dublin Take the train from Connolly Station in Dublin city centre in under 30 minutes or Dublin Bus route 32 or 42. Enjoy a guided castle tour and explore the gardens. Enjoy the village’s charming shops and tasty restaurants.

Pro tip: Malahide Castle & Gardens makes a terrific spot for photos! Here’s how we did it.

The small coastal village of Howth, just north of Dublin, is popular for it’s beautiful cliff walk and charming harbour. Howth also has a charming castle with grounds to wander and the Abbey Tavern hosts a Traditional Irish Show that features a 3-course meal.

Do It Yourself day trip from Dublin The train from Connolly Station to Howth takes about 30 minutes. Dublin Bus 6 or H3 take about 45 minutes.
From the train station turn left to head toward the harbour and cliff walk, or right to visit the castle.

Join a Guided Tour

Kilkenny is a wonderfully walkable city with loads to do! Plan a full day to enjoy everything the city has to offer!

Do It Yourself day trip from Dublin Take the train from Heuston Station in just 90 minutes or direct bus routes on Dublin Coach or JJ Kavanagh & Sons. If you want to enjoy the highlights of medieval Kilkenny plan to arrive early and plan a full day’s adventure.

Once in Kilkenny you can easily explore the highlights of the Medieval Mile, from Kilkenny Castle to St Canice’s Cathedral. Join the Shenanigans Walk for fun insight into the city or hop aboard a guided boat trip on the River Nore. If you enjoy a pint, be sure to check out the Smithwick’s tour.

Join a Guided Tour 

Galway is a bustling harbour city with a lively traditional vibe.

Do It Yourself day trip from Dublin The train from Dublin city centre takes just 2.5 hours or CityLink Express bus service takes only slightly longer. Visit historic Galway sites like the Galway Museum, Spanish Arch, Kerwin’s Lane and The Claddagh. The Latin Quarter is a busy spot filled with shops, restaurants, and pubs.

Join a Guided Tour Once in Galway you have a few great tour options in the city.

Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, is both Irish and British, and has a very different vibe than Dublin.

Do It Yourself Day Trip from Dublin It takes just 2.5 hours to reach Belfast by train from Dublin city centre.

Titanic Belfast is an incredible tour, and includes the SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line ship.
Book a Black Taxi tour to help you understand the history of The Troubles and sign your name to the Peace Walls that still divide the city.
Or take in the city at your own pace on a Hop-on Hop-off bus.
More time? Consider the Ulster Muesum, Botanic Gardens, or CS Lewis Square.

Join a Guided Tour

A day tour into the heart of ancient Ireland – the Boyne Valley in County Meath – can’t be created in a DIY trip without a car. The sites are too far apart, and some are too rural, to be easily connected by bus.

But if the Neolithic and Celtic history of Ireland interests you, a tour through the Boyne Valley should be at the top of your day trips from Dublin list.

There are 2 trips from Dublin that you may be surprised are not on this list: The Cliffs of Moher and the Giant’s Causeway.

There are 2 reasons for that. The first being that you really can’t DIY these tours from Dublin.

But, more than that, I don’t recommend these trips as day tours due to the length of the day. Most trips to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin are 12 hours long. And over 7 of those hours are spent driving. And Giant’s Causeway trips from Dublin are 13 hours, with the majority of your time being spent on a bus.

If you want to day tour to the Cliffs of Moher, I recommend spending at least one night in Galway and enjoying a full tour of the Burren, there is so much more to see and do in that area.

If you want to explore the Causeway Coast, do that day trip from Belfast. One thing to note with any bus tour along the Causeway Coast: no large bus tours visit the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, they only stop at a viewpoint. If that site is high on your list, you will need to invest in a private tour.

The post Day Trips from Dublin (no car required!) appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Known as the Garden of Ireland, County Wicklow offers an array of stunning landscapes and attractions, but the crown jewel is undoubtedly the Powerscourt Estate.

Powerscourt Estate ticks so many boxes for visitors to Ireland.

This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Vivienne Nyhan, sales manager at Powerscourt Estate. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page.

Powerscourt Estate is a paradise for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. With its Palladian-style mansion, meticulously designed landscape gardens, and a range of activities, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Ireland.

Though the estate dates back to the 13th century, the Palladian mansion is a magnificent example of 18th-century architecture. The mansion, with its grand rooms and opulent decor, offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Anglo-Irish aristocracy.

The real highlight of the estate, however, is the gardens. Named the third best in the world by National Geographic, the Powerscourt gardens are a marvel of horticultural design and took 12 years to complete.

Within 47 acres, you’ll find Italian, Japanese, and walled gardens, along with a charming pet cemetery. Each section offers its own unique beauty, making a stroll through the gardens a journey through different worlds.

Multiple pathways wind through the gardens so whether you want a gentle stroll or a more challenging walk, you’ll enjoy exploring the grounds.

Kids (and kids at heart) love the Pepper Pot Tower. Built by the eighth Lord Powerscourt in 1900 as a playhouse for his children, the tower rises 100 feet and has beautiful views that stretch across the estate. At the base of the tower are canon that date back to the Spanish Armada.

Alex Slazenger, head gardener at Powerscourt Estate, shares the garden’s history, future, and his own memories as a child on the estate.

Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, a whiskey connoisseur, or simply looking to relax, Powerscourt Estate has something for everyone.

Golfers will find two championship courses nestled within the estate, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. These courses are perfect for both seasoned players and beginners looking to enjoy a round in a beautiful setting.

For those who enjoy a good drink, the Powerscourt Distillery is a must-visit. Here, visitors can learn about the art of whiskey making and enjoy tastings paired with delicious food. The distillery’s guided tours provide an in-depth look at the production process, from grain to glass.

No matter when you visit, Powerscourt Waterfall is a lovely addition to your trip. It’s a lovely spot for a picnic and a bit of wading.

If you are staying at Powerscourt Hotel ask about a packed picnic lunch. Or grab a perfect meal to-go from Avoca at the gardens.

Located just 30 minutes from Dublin city centre and less than an hour from Dublin Airport, Powerscourt Estate is a perfect addition to your Ireland itinerary.

Prebooking is not necessary to visit the gardens, though you do need to make a reservation for a distillery tour or a stay at the hotel.

Learn more about Powerscourt Estate online or follow on Instagram and Facebook.

While the Powerscourt Estate is a highlight, County Wicklow has much more to offer. Here are a few other attractions that you shouldn’t miss.

Glendalough

Glendalough, or the “Valley of the Two Lakes,” is a stunning glacial valley renowned for its monastic site founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. The area is rich in history and offers breathtaking natural beauty, making it perfect for hiking and exploring.

Avondale House

The birthplace of Charles Stewart Parnell, one of Ireland’s greatest political leaders, Avondale House is surrounded by 500 acres of forest park. Visitors can explore the historic house and enjoy the many walking trails through the picturesque woodlands.

Beyond the Tress Avondale at Avondale House, is a treetop walkway with a magnificent 10 story viewing tower. The best way to descend the tower is by using the 9 story slide.

Visit the County Wicklow page for more tips in the Garden of Ireland!

The Wicklow Way

For avid hikers, the Wicklow Way is a must. This long-distance walking trail stretches over 130 kilometers, offering diverse landscapes ranging from lush forests to rugged mountains. It’s an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of County Wicklow up close.

Let Hilltop Treks arrange your Wicklow Way tour! Self guided tour includes accommodations with breakfast, maps, luggage transfer, and support along the way. Trips from 4-10 days.
Wicklow Way tour details here.

Powerscourt Estate and County Wicklow are destinations that promise unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re exploring the award-winning gardens, savoring whiskey at the distillery, or hiking through Glendalough, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Are you ready pack your bags and discover the beauty and history that await you in the Garden of Ireland?

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 221

The post Powerscourt Estate: The Crown Jewel of County Wicklow appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Round towers are an -almost- uniquely Irish structure. (Only 3 ancient round towers exist outside of Ireland.)

In Irish they are called cloitheach (cloy- cach), meaning bell house, and were probably built between the 9th and 12th centuries.

This article is also available as a podcast. To listen please scroll to the player at the bottom of the page.

At least 120 round towers are thought to have existed in Ireland. Today about 20 towers survive in complete condition.

The monastic settlement of Glendalough, located in the Wicklow Mountains, is a popular day trip from Dublin. The round tower stands tall in the ‘valley of the two lakes’, almost presiding over the cemetery, churches, and cathedral. There is quite a lot to see and do here, including some wonderful walks around the lake and along mountain paths.

Clonmacnoise was a major centre of learning and trade from the 8th to 12th centuries, located at one of the most important crossroads of ancient Ireland. You’ll find two round towers here, though one is missing a top. Clonmacnoise also has 3 high crosses; the Cross of Scriptures is 13 feet tall and absolutely magnificent.

The Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary was the traditional seat of the kings of Munster until 1101 when it was donated to the church by the reigning king. The round tower is the oldest structure on the site. The sight of the magnificent castle structure atop the stony outcropping and reigning over the surrounding farmland is one that will leave you in awe.

Many visitors make the pilgrimage to Kells in County Meath as that is where the Book of Kells was held until 1654, before it was presented to Trinity College in 1661 (where you can see it today). The round tower, though still standing, has lost its cap. Five high crosses, in various states, are also here.

Articles like this highlight a few great options — but they’re just a small part of what Ireland offers.

The Ireland Travel Compass brings together hundreds of places across the country and helps you understand how to combine them into a trip that feels balanced and easy to navigate.

If your itinerary doesn’t take you near any of those popular spots there are plenty more round towers to visit. These are some of my favorites.

Rattoo round tower in County Kerry was the first round tower I saw in Ireland. In 2002 I was following the route that would become the Wild Atlantic Way when I saw the cone in the distance. As I drove the road became more narrow, finally becoming a path. And there it stood. I had it all to myself… It was magical. The Rattoo round tower is the only complete round tower in Kerry and also has a sheela na gig.

Ardmore, County Waterford, is believed to be the oldest Christian settlement in Ireland, founded by St. Declan in the 5th century. Rising from a hill overlooking the town below, the round tower dates to the 12th century. The round tower marks the end of the cliff walk, which begins at the beach, following the coast past St. Declan’s Stone, up the (steep) hill past the Cliff House Hotel (amazing spot to stay), and then to the holy well and the ruined church, before continuing along the cliffs to the cathedral and church yard.

You’re likely to pass near Kilmacdough Monestery in County Galway if you are driving between Galway city and the Cliffs of Moher. The round tower is noted as the tallest standing round tower in Ireland.

Scattery Island, in the Shannon Estuary , is owned by the Office of Public Works (OPW) and is (obviously) only reachable by boat. Scattery Island Tours offers daily sailings during the season. The round tower on Scattery is unique as the door is at ground level. The island also has seven small churches, a holy well, a lighthouse, and an artillery battery.

The round tower at Turlough Abbey in County Mayo appears rather short and squat when compared to other towers. This abbey is one of few that survived the Dissolution of the Monasteries by Henry VIII and, later, Oliver Cromwell. If you visit the National Museum of Ireland Country Life in Castlebar the round tower can be seen from there and makes a nice addition to your visit.

A round tower, locally known as The Steeple, still remains from an ancient monastic settlement in the town of Antrim, Northern Ireland. Nearby is a ‘witches stone’, the story being that a witch, upset by the construction of the tower, climbed to the top and jumped off, landing on the stone and leaving the impression of her knee and elbow. Legend says that one hollow never runs dry.

The Ireland Travel Compass brings together hundreds of places across the country and helps you turn ideas like these into a trip that fits your time and travel style.

The round tower at Glasnevin Cemetery, built in 1855 to commemorate Irish political leader Daniel O’Connell can be climbed, but it is not quite as impressive as scaling an ancient round tower.

Just west of Dublin Kildare Cathedral, also known as St. Brigid’s Cathedral, was built on the site of an important Celtic Christian abbey said to have been founded by Saint Brigid. The round tower can be climbed – be sure to note the Romanesque decoration around the doorway -and do visit the cathedral which also has a sheela-na-gig.

St. Canice’s Cathedral, at the opposite end of Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile from Kilkenny Castle, has a climbable tower which was built in the 9th century. The Cathedral is Early Gothic in design and is the second longest cathedral in Ireland, St. Patrick’s in Dublin is longer. Purchase your tickets to climb the 100 foot tower inside the cathedral.

Devenish Island in County Fermanagh had two round towers, though one remains intact and can be scaled. This is the only high tower you can climb that still retains a conical cap. The base of the cap has a decorative cornice with a carved head above each of the 4 rectangular windows, Commercial boat tours of Lower Lough Erne can take you to the island, which also has multiple church ruins and an intricate high cross.

Traveling in Ireland Episode 193

The post Round Towers – Amazing Ireland Experiences appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Avondale, County Wicklow’s newest ‘old’ attraction, launched a visitor experience in mid-2022 that you won’t find anywhere else in Ireland.

Beyond the Trees Avondale includes a treetop walk and 10 story viewing tower – along with the tallest slide in Ireland!

This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Gretta Doyle, from Beyond the Trees Avondale and Katherine Webster, from Coillte. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page.

Avondale Forest Park is in County Wicklow, just under an hour south of Dublin, near the village of Rathdrum.

For many years Avondale Forest Park has been a bit of a ‘hidden gem – loved by locals and a select few who knew the secret. The forest park is home to an incredible amount of history and amazing biodiversity.

The opening of Beyond the Trees Avondale, a partnership between Failte Ireland, Coillte, and EAK, brought new excitement and attention to Avondale Forest Park.

Coillte, a lovely Irish word that means ‘woods’, is Ireland’s state forestry agency. As an organization Coillte has responsibility for 7% of Ireland’s land which includes 12 forest parks and over 260 recreation sites around the country.

It is also a commercial forestry organization with 4 strategic visions: forests for people, forests for climate, forests for wood, and forest for nature.

Beyond the Trees Avondale opened in June 2022. A terrific outing for families, it’s a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else in Ireland.

The treetop walk and viewing tower at Beyond the Trees Avondale is the first of its kind in Ireland and the UK.

Both the treetop walk and the viewing tower have a gradual ascent and are completely accessible. The walk is 1440 meters (1.4 km) long and the tower is 38 meters high (10 stories) and features the longest slide in Ireland – 9 stories that wind down the inside of the tower, for a quick descent.

Activity stations along the treetop walk share the history of Avondale House as well as the biodiversity, animals, and trees that surround you. Rest stations are also available along the entire site.

A state-of-the-art wooden playground, the Coillte Pavilion, and the Seed Cafe, along with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, are available before or after your Beyond the Trees adventure.

You will also find multiple trails at that range from 1 to 5 kilometers as well as a completely accessible family trail if you want to extend your experience at Avondale.

Avondale House was designed by renowned architect James Wyatt and built in the late 1770s by Sameul Hayes.

On his death Hayes bequeathed the estate to Sir John Parnell. The estate passes through the Parnell family through the years and Charles Stewart Parnell, one of Ireland’s political heroes and leader of the Land League, was born in Avondale House.

Avondale House eventually ended up in the ownership of the Irish government in the early 1900s and Ireland’s first forestry school was established.

Visitors to the house will be guided, room by room, through the history of the house. Each room tells the story of one main character or point in time.

Avoca – village and traditional handweavers

Glendalough – monastic village, lakes, and mountain walks

Powerscourt House & Gardens – world renowned gardens, waterfall, distillery, golf, and luxury hotel

Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 143

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