Cottages in Wicklow

Wicklow’s proximity to Dublin makes the county a popular location to explore rural Ireland, with its emblematic wild landscapes, thrilling coastlines, friendly villages, pristine beaches and numerous historic monuments. What better way can there be to explore all this than from your very own cottage? Rent a cottage in Wicklow in the Wicklow Mountains in the heart of the county for the most spectacular hiking in the county, on the coast in the towns of Bray or Wicklow for wonderful Irish pubs and restaurants, or in the far northeast of the county for the area’s finest golfing at Woodbrook Golf Club.

Traditional cottages in Wicklow are painted in white and topped by beautiful black slate roofs. Full of character only hundreds of years of life can bring, the cottages in Wicklow put you in close connection to nature, with delightful walking trails right on your doorstep. With lovely, green gardens for your children to run around with, they are perfect for a family holiday.

Ireland boasts the highest number of golf courses per capita in the world, and within that context, Wicklow has an unusually high concentration of world-class golf courses, making it a must-visit destination for any self-respecting golfer. Choose from the likes of the historic Woodbrook Golf Club, the gorgeous courses at Powerscourt, and the 20-hole European Club at Brittas Bay, all of which offer outstanding golfing adventures.

Wicklow draws hikers from far and wide to its scintillating scenery and lavish landscapes. Choose from a wide variety of hikes, such as the 8-kilometre Bray Head Cliff Walk, which offers up panoramic vistas of Bray, the Wicklow Mountains, and the dazzling Irish Sea, or Spinc & Wicklow Way walk in Glendalough, an 11-kilometre hike which takes in billowing cascades, lake views, forest trails, and mountain peaks.

After an exciting day exploring Wicklow, reward yourself with a perfectly poured pint of the local brew in the Harbour Bar at Bray Harbour. Voted Best Pub in the World by the Lonely Planet in 2010, the bar exudes 200 years of history from every corner, with cosy snugs and private nooks packed with historical artifacts from its long history. Savour a home-cooked meal on a comfortable sofa in front of a roaring open fire, then head upstairs and enjoy a traditional Irish music session.

The glacial valley of Glendalough in central County Wicklow is home to the country’s most important Early Medieval monastic settlement, dating back 1,500 years. Previously a monastic city and major centre of religious worship, today it draws tourists to its pristine natural beauty and well-preserved monuments.

Blessington Lakes lie in two different river valleys, which are the main sources of water supply for Dublin. They are the county’s top destination for bird watching as wild bird conservation efforts are strong here, especially of its internationally famous population of greylag geese.

Tourists flock to the 18th-century Powerscourt country estate for its magisterial architecture, outstanding gardens inspired by the Palace of Versailles, and its proximity to Powerscourt Waterfall, Ireland’s highest waterfall at 121 metres, and the most photographed natural landmark in the county!

Seefin Passage Tomb is a highly mysterious ancient tomb dating back over 5,300 years, with fascinating artwork carved into its stones – a must-see for anyone interested in Ireland’s ancient history. History not your thing? Come anyway – it is located in a beautiful spot offering breathtaking vistas across Wicklow Mountains National Park!

The five-kilometre stretch of Brittas Bay is considered the best beach in County Wicklow. Backed by untouched sand dunes, it is completely unspoiled, and is a lovely location for a summer’s day rest and relaxation. Awarded Blue Flag status for five years in a row, the beach is in a designated Special Area of Conservation.

Kilmacurragh is home to the National Botanic Gardens, a 50-acre garden comprising native Irish plants as well as exotic plants from across the world. In March, the gardens put on a fabulous display of vivid colours, with swathes of blooming rhododendrons. Added bonus – the gardens are free to enter!

Avoca is both Ireland’s oldest woollen mill and one of the globe’s oldest production companies. Established back in 1723, today it is a highly popular destination for both tourists and locals to shop for crafts and knitwear. The perfect souvenir to remember your perfect holiday in Wicklow!