Family Travel Guide to Wicklow, Ireland — Where Nature, Castles & Adventure Meet
Welcome to Wicklow, Ireland — a place where emerald hills meet ancient castles, and family adventures unfold in every direction. Known as the “Garden of Ireland,” Wicklow blends storybook charm, outdoor wonder, and coastal beauty into one unforgettable destination. Whether you’re hiking in the Wicklow Mountains, exploring historic ruins, or relaxing by the fire in your private cottage, Wicklow offers something magical for every traveler.
Our featured stay, Wood Cottage, is tucked away in the peaceful countryside near Rathdrum. With space for families, cozy interiors, and scenic views, it’s the perfect home base for exploring the region’s national parks, charming villages, and coastline. Hosted by a Superhost, this stay captures the warmth and hospitality Ireland is famous for.
🍀 Discover the Best of Wicklow
Wicklow County is an outdoor paradise just an hour south of Dublin. It’s known for its lush national parks, charming seaside towns, and iconic filming locations from movies like P.S. I Love You and Braveheart. You can spend mornings hiking trails lined with wildflowers and afternoons touring castles or enjoying fish and chips by the sea.
Here’s everything you can experience while staying at Wood Cottage:
- Wicklow Mountains National Park — Ireland’s largest national park, filled with walking trails, glacial valleys, and wild deer.
- Glendalough Monastic City — a 6th-century monastery set among two stunning lakes.
- Powerscourt Estate & Gardens — ranked among the world’s top gardens, featuring waterfalls, walled gardens, and panoramic views.
- The Wicklow Way Trail — one of Ireland’s most scenic long-distance hiking routes.
Prefer guided tours and day trips? Explore options on Viator, including private Wicklow tours from Dublin, hiking excursions, and castle visits.
🏡 Stay: Wood Cottage in Wicklow
This cozy, family-friendly Airbnb near Rathdrum is surrounded by woodlands, walking trails, and rolling fields. You’ll find all the comforts of home plus thoughtful Irish touches that make your stay extra special — from a fully equipped kitchen and wood-burning stove to a garden perfect for tea in the morning sun.
- 🛏 2 bedrooms (1 double + 1 twin room)
- 🍳 Kitchen with full appliances and cookware
- 🔥 Fireplace and central heating for cozy evenings
- 🌳 Outdoor seating area surrounded by trees
- 📍 Central to Glendalough, Avoca, and the Wicklow Mountains
Book your stay directly on Airbnb and experience the serenity of Irish countryside living.
🥾 Outdoor Adventures & Natural Beauty
Wicklow’s landscapes are as diverse as they are breathtaking. From misty mountain hikes to coastal cliff walks, here are a few must-dos for nature lovers:
- Climb Lugnaquilla — Ireland’s highest mountain outside of Kerry, offering panoramic views over the Irish Sea.
- Powerscourt Waterfall — Ireland’s tallest waterfall, perfect for picnics and family days out.
- Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk — a family-friendly trail along the coast with cafés at both ends.
- Avoca Village — famous for its woolen mills and the set of the BBC series Ballykissangel.
You can even book guided hikes or photography tours on Viator for insider experiences led by local experts.
🍴 Where to Eat in Wicklow
- Avoca Café — fresh Irish produce and homemade desserts in a cozy countryside setting.
- The Bridge Brook Lodge — family-friendly restaurant in Aughrim with local ingredients and big portions.
- The Strawberry Tree at BrookLodge — Ireland’s first certified organic restaurant.
- The Fishman — a must-stop in Wicklow Town for the best fish & chips.
For foodie travelers, don’t miss the Taste of Wicklow Festival, held every June, celebrating local chefs, artisan foods, and Irish craft beer.
🏰 History, Culture & Family Attractions
- Wicklow Gaol — one of Ireland’s most haunted and historic sites, offering interactive family tours.
- Russborough House — a stunning 18th-century estate filled with art and history.
- Greenan Maze — fun for families with two mazes, farm animals, and nature trails.
- Glendalough Visitor Centre — history and hiking in one spot, ideal for families.
Families can also check out Sea View Farm for hands-on animal encounters and local markets on weekends.
🌍 Day Trips from Wicklow
- Dublin City (1 hour): Explore Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and Phoenix Park. Book transport via Viator.
- Glendalough (30 minutes): Hike around the lakes and visit the 6th-century monastery.
- Bray & Greystones: Perfect seaside towns for a relaxing day with great restaurants and ice cream stops.
Use SafetyWing Travel Insurance to keep your family protected on the road — flexible plans that cover trips anywhere in the world.
🖋 Stay Here, Do That Insider Tips
- ☀️ Best Time to Visit: May to September for the best weather; October for fall colors and fewer tourists.
- 🚗 Getting Around: Rent a car or use Viator day trips for guided travel.
- 🎡 Don’t Miss: Arklow Bay Family Fun Centre and Wicklow Hills Market on Saturdays.
Every moment in Wicklow feels timeless — from castle ruins to friendly locals waving as you pass. This is Ireland at its most authentic.
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💬 Final Thoughts
From mountain peaks to seaside villages, Wicklow proves that family-friendly travel can also be luxurious and meaningful. Stay in comfort, eat like a local, and explore the Irish countryside that has inspired poets and filmmakers for generations. Every trail, every stone wall, every pint poured tells a story here.
Book Wood Cottage, plan your adventures with Viator, and protect your journey with SafetyWing.
💬 Share Your Adventures with Us!
Have you explored Wicklow or stayed nearby? Leave a comment below with your favorite castles, hikes, or Irish eats — your tips might inspire another traveler’s perfect trip.
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✉️ Want your Airbnb or vacation rental featured? Email us at ambientsounds48@gmail.com.
We Say Stay Here, Do That.
