Wicklow Mountains: Ireland’s Garden for Riders
The Wicklow Mountains, often known as “The Garden of Ireland,” spanning much of County Wicklow in the Republic of Ireland, are an absolute paradise for motorbike tourists. This majestic mountain range offers an unparalleled blend of dramatic landscapes, exhilarating roads, and rich historical sites, all within easy reach of Dublin.
For riders, the Wicklow Mountains offer some of the most captivating routes in the country. The famous Military Road (R115) and the Sally Gap (R115/R759 junction) are must-ride stretches, carving through vast expanses of heather-clad moorland and deep glacial valleys. These winding, often challenging roads provide continuous, breathtaking panoramic views, offering endless opportunities to pull over safely and soak in the wild, untamed beauty. The feeling of open space and fresh mountain air is invigorating.
Beyond the sheer joy of the roads, the Wicklow Mountains are home to iconic sights. The serene Glendalough monastic city, with its iconic Round Tower and two tranquil lakes, is a profound historical and spiritual stop. The strikingly beautiful Lough Tay (Guinness Lake), nestled dramatically amidst the peaks, is a photographer’s dream. Ireland’s highest waterfall, Powerscourt Waterfall, also adds to the natural spectacle. The extensive network of forest parks, like Avondale and Djouce, offers opportunities for leg-stretching walks.
Given the rural nature of much of the mountains, dining options are primarily found in the charming villages nestled within or on their fringes. Laragh (near Glendalough) offers popular choices like The Wicklow Heather Restaurant. Roundwood, Ireland’s highest village, boasts the Roundwood Inn. Hollywood and Blessington to the west, or Enniskerry to the east, also provide a good selection of traditional pubs and welcoming cafes serving hearty meals, perfect for refuelling after a day of unforgettable riding. The Wicklow Mountains promise an exhilarating and visually stunning adventure, making them an essential and deeply rewarding part of your Irish motorbike tour.
Wicklow Mountains: Ireland’s Garden for Riders
The Wicklow Mountains, often known as “The Garden of Ireland,” spanning much of County Wicklow in the Republic of Ireland, are an absolute paradise for motorbike tourists. This majestic mountain range offers an unparalleled blend of dramatic landscapes, exhilarating roads, and rich historical sites, all within easy reach of Dublin.
For riders, the Wicklow Mountains offer some of the most captivating routes in the country. The famous Military Road (R115) and the Sally Gap (R115/R759 junction) are must-ride stretches, carving through vast expanses of heather-clad moorland and deep glacial valleys. These winding, often challenging roads provide continuous, breathtaking panoramic views, offering endless opportunities to pull over safely and soak in the wild, untamed beauty. The feeling of open space and fresh mountain air is invigorating.
Beyond the sheer joy of the roads, the Wicklow Mountains are home to iconic sights. The serene Glendalough monastic city, with its iconic Round Tower and two tranquil lakes, is a profound historical and spiritual stop. The strikingly beautiful Lough Tay (Guinness Lake), nestled dramatically amidst the peaks, is a photographer’s dream. Ireland’s highest waterfall, Powerscourt Waterfall, also adds to the natural spectacle. The extensive network of forest parks, like Avondale and Djouce, offers opportunities for leg-stretching walks.
Given the rural nature of much of the mountains, dining options are primarily found in the charming villages nestled within or on their fringes. Laragh (near Glendalough) offers popular choices like The Wicklow Heather Restaurant. Roundwood, Ireland’s highest village, boasts the Roundwood Inn. Hollywood and Blessington to the west, or Enniskerry to the east, also provide a good selection of traditional pubs and welcoming cafes serving hearty meals, perfect for refuelling after a day of unforgettable riding. The Wicklow Mountains promise an exhilarating and visually stunning adventure, making them an essential and deeply rewarding part of your Irish motorbike tour.