Blessington, a vibrant town nestled on the shores of the Blessington Lakes in County Wicklow, offers a delightful stop for motorbike enthusiasts. Surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Wicklow Mountains, it serves as a gateway to explore the “Garden of Ireland.”
A key attraction is Russborough House and Parklands, a magnificent Palladian mansion with guided tours showcasing its art collection and history. The extensive parklands feature a maze and offer lovely walking opportunities. The Blessington Lakes themselves are a haven for outdoor activities, from fishing and kayaking to leisurely lakeside strolls. The Blessington Greenway, a 6km trail linking the town to Russborough House, is perfect for a walk or cycle, offering picturesque views.
For a taste of local history, explore the town centre, which features the Downshire Monument and St. Mary’s Church of Ireland. Nearby, the Blessington Lakeshore Heritage Trail provides a 33km route through scenic landscapes and historical sites. Adventure seekers can find activities at CP Adventure and Kippure Adventure Centre, offering options like ziplining and archery. Nature lovers shouldn’t miss Hunting Brook Garden, showcasing a diverse collection of plants.
When it comes to dining, Blessington offers a range of options. The West Wicklow House is a traditional Irish pub and restaurant with a long history, serving classic dishes and locally sourced produce. Murphy’s Bar on Main Street provides a welcoming atmosphere with a traditional bar and a lounge serving an à la carte menu; it also features a beer garden. For hotel dining with scenic views of the Blessington Lakes, Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort offers both a casual brasserie and a fine dining restaurant. You can also find various cafes and takeaways in the town, including The Kitchen Garden Cafe at Russborough House and Lemon Tree for Asian cuisine.
Blessington, a vibrant town nestled on the shores of the Blessington Lakes in County Wicklow, offers a delightful stop for motorbike enthusiasts. Surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Wicklow Mountains, it serves as a gateway to explore the “Garden of Ireland.”
A key attraction is Russborough House and Parklands, a magnificent Palladian mansion with guided tours showcasing its art collection and history. The extensive parklands feature a maze and offer lovely walking opportunities. The Blessington Lakes themselves are a haven for outdoor activities, from fishing and kayaking to leisurely lakeside strolls. The Blessington Greenway, a 6km trail linking the town to Russborough House, is perfect for a walk or cycle, offering picturesque views.
For a taste of local history, explore the town centre, which features the Downshire Monument and St. Mary’s Church of Ireland. Nearby, the Blessington Lakeshore Heritage Trail provides a 33km route through scenic landscapes and historical sites. Adventure seekers can find activities at CP Adventure and Kippure Adventure Centre, offering options like ziplining and archery. Nature lovers shouldn’t miss Hunting Brook Garden, showcasing a diverse collection of plants.
When it comes to dining, Blessington offers a range of options. The West Wicklow House is a traditional Irish pub and restaurant with a long history, serving classic dishes and locally sourced produce. Murphy’s Bar on Main Street provides a welcoming atmosphere with a traditional bar and a lounge serving an à la carte menu; it also features a beer garden. For hotel dining with scenic views of the Blessington Lakes, Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort offers both a casual brasserie and a fine dining restaurant. You can also find various cafes and takeaways in the town, including The Kitchen Garden Cafe at Russborough House and Lemon Tree for Asian cuisine.