48 HOURS IN CO. WICKLOW

County Wicklow is an area just south of Dublin, on the east side of Ireland. You have gorgeous mountains, the Irish Sea coastline, and a relaxing time away from the crowds of the country’s capital. If you have 48 hours in County Wicklow, here is what I suggest you do:

Check into the gorgeous Powerscourt Hotel, a five-star luxury accommodation just 40 minutes away from the Dublin Airport. Walking distance from the hotel is Powerscourt Estate, consisting of 47-acres of gardens (voted the 3rd best garden in the world by National Geographic). There is a lovely walled garden, Japanese Gardens, and beautiful statues, along with a backdrop of sweeping mountains. Allot 90 minutes to make the most of the estate.

Return to the hotel for Afternoon Tea (I suggest making a reservation in advance). There is a vegan menu option, which I had, and it was absolutely heavenly. The desserts were so decadent and the scones were so buttery tasting, that I almost wondered if it was truly vegan! (Rest assured, it is simply that good.)

After you have had your fill, take a cab 15 minutes east to take a walk along the cliffs between Bray and Greystones. If you are renting a car, you can park at the Cliff Walk Car Park at Raheen Park, just outside of the Bray town centre. From here, you will see a few trails – the one you want is the one that leads up the hill. The path is paved and a very easy walk, and you will get gorgeous views of the coastline.

End the evening with a meal at Platform Pizza, a lively bar and pizza place in Bray. The next day, wake up and have breakfast at Sika Restaurant within the walls of Powerscourt Hotel. Then drive 30 minutes south of the hotel to Glendalough, “the valley of two lakes” for hiking and some of the most breathtaking views. Once you arrive, you will see different trail options based on difficulty and duration. Choose your own adventure, you won’t be disappointed no matter which way you go!

Then head back north to Killruddery House & Gardens, an absolutely incredible 800-acre estate, where the Brabazon family has lived since 1618. Reserve a house tour in advance so you are able to go inside their stunning family home, and then carve out time to marvel at the long ponds, walled garden, and tranquility of the estate. Check out their Grain Store Restaurant hours to enjoy lunch, which uses many of the ingredients grown on the estate. Don’t forget to stop off at the Farm Shop to take with you some scones or soups made on site to snack on for later!

If you are spent for the day (or there is inclement weather – this is Ireland, after all), head back to Powerscourt and settle into your bed for some room service or cozy up to the soup you purchased at Killruddery. If you still have some time left in the day, hike up to see the Mottee Stone, a huge granite boulder, for another great vantage point!

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