Wicklow

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Wicklow's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Wicklow Mountains
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Glendalough, a stunning valley with two beautiful lakes. Explore the ancient monastic site and enjoy a peaceful morning walk.

afternoon
:

Head to the Wicklow Gap for breathtaking views and some great photography opportunities. Stop by a local café for lunch and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a dinner at a cozy pub in the nearby town of Laragh. Enjoy traditional Irish dishes and listen to some local music.

day 2
Hiking in the Glens
morning
:

Kick off your day with a guided hike in the Glens of Antrim. A variety of trails will offer you the chance to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the region.

afternoon
:

Pause for lunch at a quaint café in the town of Avoca. Spend the afternoon exploring the lavender fields and the charming local shops.

evening
:

End your day with a sunset stroll along the Avoca River. Then, enjoy a warm meal at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Irish cuisine.

day 3
Visit Historical Sites
morning
:

Start with a visit to Kilruddery House and Gardens, exploring its magnificent gardens and fascinating history. Take a guided tour to learn more about the estate.

afternoon
:

Continue to the nearby Bray Head for a scenic hike, taking in panoramic views of the coastline. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning scenery.

evening
:

Dine at a seaside restaurant in Bray, relishing fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the bay. Finish your evening with a leisurely walk along the seafront.

day 4
Coastal Adventures
morning
:

Begin your day at the beautiful beach in Brittas Bay, perfect for a refreshing morning walk. Try your hand at some water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.

afternoon
:

Head to the scenic seaside town of Wicklow to grab lunch and explore the local shops. Visit the historic Wicklow Lighthouse to learn about its maritime history.

evening
:

Spend your evening at the beach, enjoying a barbecue picnic. As the stars come out, relax with the sound of waves in the background.

day 5
Wildlife Spotting
morning
:

Visit the National Botanical Gardens at Kilmacurragh for a peaceful morning surrounded by diverse plant species. Enjoy a leisurely stroll and soak in the natural beauty.

afternoon
:

Take a guided wildlife tour in the Wicklow Mountains National Park to spot deer and various bird species. Pack a lunch to enjoy in the great outdoors.

evening
:

Head back to Avoca for dinner at a local eatery, where you can enjoy seasonal dishes. Reflect on your wildlife encounters as you wind down for the day.

day 6
Angling and River Walks
morning
:

Kickstart your day with fly fishing at the River Dargle, known for its beautiful trout. Enjoy the tranquility of early morning by the riverbank.

afternoon
:

After fishing, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, then take a leisurely walk along the river. Explore the nearby woodlands for a chance to see local wildlife.

evening
:

Finish off your day with a hearty dinner at a riverside restaurant. Relish the flavors of locally sourced ingredients while sharing stories from your afternoon.

day 7
Biking Through Nature
morning
:

Rent a bike and hit the trails in the Wicklow Mountains for an exhilarating morning ride. Enjoy the fresh air and breathtaking landscapes as you pedal through nature.

afternoon
:

Stop at the charming village of Enniskerry for lunch, and then visit the Powerscourt Waterfall, Ireland’s tallest waterfall. Take your time to explore the surrounding gardens.

evening
:

Enjoy a comforting dinner at a local pub, savoring classic Irish dishes. Finish the day with a pint of stout while enjoying live music.

day 8
Equestrian Experience
morning
:

Begin your day with a horseback riding adventure through the stunning trails of County Wicklow. Experience the natural beauty while being guided by experienced instructors.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch back at the stables and relax before heading out for another ride or a scenic hike. Take in the breathtaking views of the rolling hills.

evening
:

Complete your experience with a traditional Irish meal at a local restaurant. Share your equestrian stories while enjoying the company of fellow adventurers.

day 9
Evening Culture and Music
morning
:

Explore the beautiful gardens of Mount Usher while enjoying the tranquility of nature. Take a morning stroll and appreciate the stunning horticulture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch in the nearby village of Ashford, sampling traditional dishes. In the afternoon, visit the local arts and crafts shops for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Join a local pub for an evening filled with traditional Irish music. Relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while making new friends.

day 10
Art and Craft Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the Avoca Handweavers, renowned for their beautiful crafts. Take a tour and learn about the art of weaving.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at their café, featuring locally-sourced ingredients. Spend the afternoon exploring art galleries showcasing local artists' works.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a delightful dinner at a nearby restaurant. Reflect on your artistic discoveries while enjoying a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Discover Wicklow

Read more in our Wicklow 2024 Travel Guide.

Wicklow Travel Guide