Things to do
Adventures Await
There’s no shortage of things to do while staying at The Coach House, with the beauty of County Wicklow right on your doorstep. Explore a range of walking and hiking trails through the Wicklow Mountains National Park, from peaceful lakeside strolls to more challenging climbs like the Spinc or Djouce.
Cycling routes wind through forests, hills, and country lanes, while nearby stables offer horse riding experiences across scenic landscapes. Discover the area’s rich history with visits to Glendalough’s monastic ruins, Powerscourt Estate and Gardens, or the historic Military Road.
Whether you’re seeking fresh air, adventure, or cultural heritage, there’s something to suit every pace and interest just moments from Roundwood.
Glendalough, nestled in the heart of County Wicklow, is one of Ireland’s most picturesque and popular tourist destinations, perfect for a day trip from Dublin. Famous for its stunning monastic ruins and two serene lakes, this scenic valley attracts hikers, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore well-marked trails, from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes like the Spinc, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Wicklow Mountains. With its rich history, dramatic landscapes, and easy accessibility, Glendalough is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience Ireland’s natural beauty and heritage in a single trip.
Glendalough
Glendalough is a hiker’s paradise, offering a range of trails that showcase the breathtaking beauty of the Wicklow Mountains. From leisurely lakeside walks to challenging climbs, there’s something for every level of adventurer. The Spinc trail is a standout, taking hikers on a steep ascent to a boardwalk that runs along the cliffs, offering stunning panoramic views over the glacial valley and its two lakes. For those seeking a longer trek, the Wicklow Way passes through Glendalough, providing a scenic route through forests, waterfalls, and rugged mountain landscapes.
Easier routes, like the Miners’ Village walk, offer a glimpse into the area’s rich history while surrounded by nature. With well-marked trails and diverse terrain, Glendalough is the perfect destination for a memorable hiking experience.
Walks & Hikes
The Wicklow Mountains are a haven for hikers, offering a diverse network of trails that range from gentle strolls to challenging mountain treks. The Wicklow Way, Ireland’s oldest long-distance walking route, stretches 131 km through rolling hills, forests, and scenic landscapes. Lugnaquilla, the highest peak in the range, rewards experienced hikers with stunning panoramic vistas. The Scalp, a dramatic rocky pass near Enniskerry, offers a shorter but rewarding hike with unique geological formations and great views. For a mix of history and nature, the Djouce Mountain and Powerscourt Waterfall hike combines sweeping mountain scenery with Ireland’s tallest waterfall. The Guinness Estate trails near Luggala provide a stunning backdrop of rolling hills and Lough Tay, famously known as the “Guinness Lake” and a key filming location for Vikings. Other popular trails include the Sugarloaf Mountain, Lough Dan, and Devil’s Glen, each offering a unique way to experience the county’s wild beauty. With its variety of well-marked trails, Wicklow is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore Ireland’s stunning landscapes..
Wicklow Mountains
Located just outside Enniskerry in County Wicklow, Powerscourt Waterfall is the tallest in Ireland, tumbling an impressive 121 metres against a backdrop of dense, ancient woodlands. The area is rich with towering oak, beech, and pine trees, creating a serene atmosphere ideal for relaxing and picnicking. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly facilities on-site, including a playground, a refreshment kiosk, and easy parking. For those looking to explore the landscape further, there are several walking and hiking options nearby.
The Djouce Wood and Powerscourt Waterfall Loop offers a moderately challenging 6.3 km walk, typically taking about two hours and rewarding hikers with views of the forest and waterfall. Crone Woods, not far from the waterfall, provides access to the famous Wicklow Way and includes trails leading to panoramic viewpoints and up to Maulin and Djouce mountains. Meanwhile, those after a gentler stroll can follow the Powerscourt Estate’s River Walk, an 8 km path meandering along the Dargle River beneath centuries-old trees. Whether you’re after a short walk or a full day’s hike, the Powerscourt area is a fantastic place to enjoy Wicklow’s stunning natural scenery.
Powerscourt Waterfall
Horse riding in Wicklow offers an unforgettable way to explore the county’s stunning landscapes, from rolling hills to sandy beaches and forested trails. Several equestrian centers, such as the Wicklow EquiTours, Brennanstown Riding School and just 5 minutes from Roundwood village, Wicklow Equestrian Centre , provide guided treks for all experience levels, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider. Riders can venture through the Wicklow Mountains, taking in breathtaking views of valleys and lakes, or enjoy a scenic gallop along Brittas Bay’s golden sands.
Many trails pass through historic estates, woodlands, and open countryside, offering a peaceful and immersive experience in nature. With its diverse terrain and well-established riding schools, Wicklow is a dream destination for horse lovers looking to experience Ireland’s beauty on horseback.
Horse Riding
Wicklow, known as the "Garden of Ireland," is home to some of the most breathtaking gardens in the country, making it a paradise for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts. Powerscourt Gardens, often ranked among the world’s finest, feature stunning terraces, Japanese gardens, and a dramatic backdrop of the Sugarloaf Mountain.
Nearby, Mount Usher Gardens offers a more relaxed, wild feel, with its charming riverside walkways and diverse plant species.
The National Botanic Gardens at Kilmacurragh boast a fascinating collection of rare trees and exotic plants, thriving in Wicklow’s unique climate. Other hidden gems include June Blake’s Garden and Hunting Brook Gardens, both bursting with vibrant flowers and creative landscaping. Whether you're looking for formal grandeur or natural beauty, Wicklow’s gardens provide the perfect escape into a world of color and tranquility.
Gardens of Wicklow
Wicklow offers some of the most scenic and diverse cycling routes in Ireland, making it an ideal destination for cycling tours. From the winding mountain roads of the Wicklow Gap to the gentle coastal paths along the Irish Sea, there’s something for cyclists of all levels. The famous "Wicklow 200" is a challenging, yet rewarding, cycling event that takes riders through the stunning landscape of the Wicklow Mountains, covering over 200 kilometers of rolling hills and picturesque villages. For a more leisurely pace, cyclists can enjoy the quiet roads around Blessington Lakes or the peaceful trails through the countryside near Glendalough. Many local operators offer bike rentals, allowing visitors to explore the area at their own pace, with a wide range of options from road bikes to electric bikes. Cycling tour operators also provide guided tours, catering to both road and mountain bike enthusiasts. With its blend of quiet lanes, mountain climbs, and coastal views, Wicklow is a paradise for cycling lovers, whether you’re bringing your own bike or renting one for the day. E-Bike Tours with GoBike
Cycling Bike Tours
Wicklow is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering a variety of fishing experiences in both freshwater and saltwater environments. The county is home to numerous rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, such as the scenic Avonmore River and the picturesque Lough Dan, where anglers can enjoy tranquil fly fishing for wild brown trout and salmon. The coastline also presents excellent sea fishing opportunities, with the waters off Brittas Bay and the Wicklow Harbour known for their abundant catches of mackerel, bass, and cod. Visitors can also try their hand at coarse fishing in peaceful spots like the Blessington Lakes, renowned for their pike and roach populations. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, Wicklow’s diverse fishing offerings make it an ideal location for a fishing getaway, complete with stunning views and a chance to unwind in nature.
Fishing in Wicklow
Beekeeping is a thriving tradition across Wicklow and Dublin, supported by the county’s rich biodiversity and unspoiled landscapes. Known as the "Garden of Ireland," Wicklow provides an ideal environment for bees, with its wildflower meadows, heather-covered mountains, and lush woodlands offering an abundant source of nectar supporting a vibrant community of beekeepers producing distinctive, high-quality honey.
Groups like the Wicklow Beekeepers’ Association provide training and conservation support, while sustainable initiatives flourish at places like OpenHive.ie (Dublin and Wicklow), Ollysfarm.ie (near Brittas Bay), and Wildacres.ie (in the Dublin Mountains). Thanks to the region’s biodiversity, honey from Wicklow and Dublin is prized for its rich, floral flavours — a true taste of the landscape.
Bee Keeping
Wicklow is home to outstanding breweries and distilleries that showcase its rich heritage in whiskey and craft beer. Wicklow Wolf Brewery, based in Newtown Mount Kennedy, is a must-visit for beer lovers, known for its sustainable brewing practices and innovative flavors. Visitors can enjoy brewery tours, sample core range beers, and relax at the lively taproom often featuring food trucks.
Nearby, Glendalough Distillery crafts celebrated small-batch whiskeys, botanical gins and poitín inspired by the Wicklow landscape. Unfortunately, the distillery is not open to visitors. But it’s possible to buy their products locally.
For a full whiskey experience, Powerscourt Distillery on the beautiful Powerscourt Estate offers guided tours, tastings, and insights into their award-winning single malts. Together, these spots highlight Wicklow’s growing reputation for high-quality, artisanal spirits and brews.
Irish Distilleries & Breweries
PUB | RESTAURANT | ROOMS