Imagine a place where mountains meet the sea, ancient forests hide medieval ruins, waterfalls tumble through rugged cliffs, and cosy villages serve the best tea and scones you've ever had. That place exists — it's called Wicklow, Ireland's true Garden of Eden. Located just south of Dublin, County Wicklow is one of Ireland's most diverse and beautiful regions.
Why Wicklow is Called "The Garden of Ireland"
The nickname isn't just marketing. Wicklow's combination of lush green valleys, dramatic coastal cliffs, ancient woodlands, and flowering gardens genuinely earns this title. The county's mild, moist climate keeps everything vibrantly green — even in winter.
Must-See Destinations in Wicklow
Glendalough
Ireland's most iconic monastic valley. 1,500-year-old ruins, glacial lakes, and mountain hiking trails. A must-visit for anyone in Wicklow. Explore our Glendalough 360° Virtual Tour →
Powerscourt Estate & Gardens
One of Ireland's grandest stately homes with formal gardens, a stunning waterfall, and sweeping views of the Sugar Loaf Mountain.
Wicklow Mountains National Park
Over 20,000 hectares of upland wilderness. Home to the Sally Gap, Glenmalure, Lough Dan, and dozens of hiking trails.
Greystones
A charming seaside town beloved by locals. Great cafés, independent shops, and a lovely beach walk. Explore Greystones in 360° →
Bray
The gateway to Wicklow — a classic Irish seaside town with a busy promenade, Bray Head cliff walk, and excellent restaurants.
The Wicklow Way
Ireland's oldest waymarked trail runs for 127km through the heart of Wicklow. You can walk sections of it independently or join guided groups.
Wicklow's Hidden Gems
- Devil's Glen — A cinematic forest walk near Ashford with hidden waterfalls and sculptures. Explore Devil's Glen →
- Avoca Village — The oldest working handweaving mill in Ireland, set in a beautiful river valley.
- Kilruddery House — A 17th-century manor with some of Ireland's oldest formal gardens.
- Brittas Bay — Five kilometres of Blue Flag beach, perfect for a summer day.
Getting to Wicklow from Dublin
- By Car: 45–90 minutes depending on destination
- By DART: Serves coastal towns (Bray, Greystones) directly from Dublin city centre
- By Bus: Regular Bus Éireann routes to Wicklow town, Arklow, and Bray
- Day Tours: Dozens of guided day trips run from Dublin — ideal for first-time visitors
The Best Time to Visit
Wicklow is beautiful year-round, but each season has its charm:
- Spring — Wildflowers, lambs, and fewer crowds
- Summer — Long evenings, beach days, and buzzing villages
- Autumn — Golden forests, dramatic skies, and hiking season peak
- Winter — Moody mountains, cosy pubs, and misty waterfalls
Whatever the season, Wicklow always delivers.