Welcome to County Wicklow, known as the ‘Garden of Ireland’. A place with endless natural beauty and captivating history. Explore the county’s rolling Wicklow Mountains, glistening lakes and visit a selection of glorious attractions in this lovely part of ‘Ireland’s Ancient East’.
Our tour is based at the welcoming 4 star Arklow Bay Hotel. With landscaped gardens and stand alone leisure club including an indoor pool, this 91 bedroomed hotel makes an excellent base for exploring the area.
Begin the day with a visit to Mount Usher Gardens. A haven of rare beauty and tranquillity and named by Monty Don as one of his favourite gardens in the world. Then to explore the impressive Wicklow Mountains National Park and Glendalough, a spectacular glacial valley, known for the ancient monastic settlement founded by St Kevin in the 6th century. On to the lovely village of Avoca and home to Ireland’s oldest hand-weavers, the Avoca Handweavers founded in 1723. Enjoy an included tour of the mill to learn about the history of Avoca and the craft involved in each step of the weaving process.
And we are off to the National Stud and Japanese Gardens, a short jump over the border in Kildare for a full and worthwhile day where we also include the Irish Racehorse Experience. Horse racing is a key fixture in Irish culture, and Kildare is the birthplace of champions and legends in the sport. Get up close to the spectacular stallions at the paddock, spot lively yearlings or watch the protective mares with their frolicking foals. Venture to the Japanese Gardens which combine beautiful structures with the vivid foliage and babbling streams in a perfect balance of sights, sounds and colour. Head on to Lullymore Heritage Centre and Discovery Park. Try you hand at traditional peat cutting and take a ride on the road train before returning to Arklow Bay.
A more leisurely day today where Russborough House awaits you. Nestled in the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains, this elegant Palladian mansion, viewed as one of Ireland’s most beautiful historic houses, boasts spectacular views and a rich heritage with grand rooms adorned with intricate plasterwork showcasing many art masterpieces. Beyond the house, 200 acres of scenic parkland invite you to explore woodland walks, a charming maze, and a restored walled garden, with glorious views overlooking the serene Blessington Lakes. Time allowing on the return why not drop into the picturesque village of Enniskerry with its picture postcard cottages.
Your tour includes:
4 nights half board in Co. Wicklow with full Irish breakfast and three course, three choice dinner with tea and coffee.
Porter service. On-site Coach Parking.
Admission to Mount Usher Gardens
Tour of Avoca Mill
Admission to the National Stud, Japanese Gardens and Irish Racehorse Experience
Admission to Lullymore Heritage Centre
Guided tour of Russborough House
