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26th September 2019
09:34am BST
If you find yourself at a loose end in the near future and fancy taking on a walk that won't be too strenuous or time-consuming then we've got the perfect trail for you.
The forest around Avondale House in Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow is an educational trek in beautiful surroundings which will satisfy nature and history buffs alike.
The centrepiece of the area is the beautiful Avondale House which was designed by James Wyatt and built in 1877. Dedicated to Charles Stewart Parnell and his family, the house is a spectacular hidden gem which is well worth taking a few minutes to check out before or after your stroll.
The entire Avondale Forest Park consists of over 500 acres of magnificent walks and trails which intertwine with each other meaning you can duck in and out in different directions and still be sure have an enjoyable day.
Another little roadtrip today. Avondale House & Meeting of Waters in Wicklow. #WicklowWay #Ireland pic.twitter.com/bT7aTu1dF9
— Gillian Murphy (@Gill_Murphy) September 2, 2016
Of course, this increases the risk of losing your way for a while but if you're anything like us that will only add to your experience.
There are a number of picnic areas along the way so Avondale is perfect for a group or family day out or even if you want to sample a few snacks in the great outdoors with your other half.
The forest is home to a variety of different wildlife and if you look and listen hard enough you should be able to spot a squirrel, fox or hedgehog rustling through the leaves.
There are also a number of information posts which serve to educate visitors on the various types of trees which range from maple, beech and oak and originate from places as far afield as Canada and Scandinavia.
Be sure to keep an eye out for some incredible tree carvings like the one pictured below:
If you like what you see, Avondale Forest Park is open all year round while the interior of Avondale house is only open throughout June, July and August.
Sure what else would ya be doing?!
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