By Sangeetha Shreekar
Slowly but steadily the sunshine is making its way to Ireland. It has been a long wait and it’s time to get the picnic baskets ready with delicious sambos, filled flask and those Tayto crisps to head out to explore the picturesque locations around Ireland.
Beyond the trees, Avondale, Wicklow:
The newest addition to Wicklow attractions. The first of its kind in Ireland, the fully accessible Treetop Walk and Viewing Tower takes everyone to the very heart of the forest at Avondale, and beyond. Weave your way along the walkway exploring our trees, from top to bottom. The tower structure is beautifully constructed and definitely an instagrammable spot. Head over there for 2hrs tour and find just the right spot to lay down under the trees with the picnic mat. Do not forget to book your tour in advance. Check out the details here.
Ring of Beara:
Let’s check out this offbeat scenic route right beside ring of Kerry. More remote nevertheless a promising road trip. You will be rewarded with wild country, breath-taking views & very few other tourists. Do not forget for a pitstop at the Castletownbere village and the Buddhist meditation centre, off the road at Dzogchen Beara.
Conor pass:
The highest mountain passes in Ireland. The place being a part of the scenic county Kerry, it is a a 12km dramatic scenic drive crossing from the north to south shore of the Dingle Peninsula. You can always head to Dingle for the break to grab those sambos which is at 8minutes drive from the Conor pass. It’s 12km long and runs from the town of Dingle on the southern end of the peninsula to Brandon Bay and Castlegregory in the North. You need to be extremely cautious while driving and need to check the weather forecast before you embark on the journey.
The Jealous Wall:
The Jealous Wall is a large 18th century Gothic folly made from limestone located in the Belvedere House and Gardens in Mullingar, County Westmeath. It was built c. 1760 as a result of a quarrel between Robert Rochfort and another brother George, the owner of nearby Rochfort House. You can call it a truce between brothers and settle down for a pic near the octagonal gazebo with the view.
The Glen of Aherlow:
Located between Slievenamuck and the Galtee Mountains in the western part of County Tipperary. You could also hit your steps goal with the 8 looped walks in Slievenamuck which is known as walkers’ paradise. Find your calling to settle for a picnic while visiting corrie lakes enjoying the mountain scenery and spectacular landscape.
Glenevin Waterfall:
It can be found as part of the Glenevein Valley walk in County Donegal. There are newly refurbished picnic areas dotted throughout the walk and there are footbridges and stepping stones in place to navigate the various streams running along the walk.
The above list should get you started for July as it marks the picnic month of the year. Ireland is out and about beautiful in every corner, however our list should set you apart from the crowds to get your weekend the much needed headspace amidst the nature. Get packing and do not forget to tag us when you visit any of the above places. Happy Weekend!