Advice

Greetings
First trip to Ireland for my wife and I.
Flying into Dublin and planned to stay for two days. We were thinking of heading down to Wicklow/Wexford/Waterford area for 4 days. No particular reason other than I have been told it is breathtakingly beautiful.
Any thoughts on what to do or is there enough to do? Suggest driving or hiring drivers?

Hello Wallace,

Dublin is a wonderful place to start your first trip to the island of Ireland! There is so much to see and do that you will be kept busy.

Heading down towards Counties Wicklow, Wexford and Waterford would be a super idea and you will certainly be able to fill your 4 days. 

I would suggest using somewhere closer to Wexford for the following 4 days, visiting Glendalough and Powerscourt on your way down to stop in Wexford overnight. Please take a look at our approved accommodation search page for information. I have pre-selected Wexford to get you started and feel free to alter the destination and select the accommodation type to best suit your needs.

I have some information on tour operators who specialize in escorted tours who would be best placed to recommend a bespoke or small group tour to fill your needs. This will enable you both to enjoy the scenery and visit all the best locations this part of Ireland's Ancient East has to offer.

I hope this gives you lots of inspiration, and I'm sure your fellow members and some industry partners will be able to add to this list!

If you need any more help, just let me know!

Martin

Hi Wallace,

the whole Wicklow area is indeed incredibly beautiful - even if the weather isn't always :-)
One of the must-do things on your list should definitely be visiting Glendalough. It is a tourist hotspot, but for a good reason. The natural environment is stunning and the historical buildings and ruins are really special. I've been there about six times with family and friends and it's a place you just don't get tired of. 

It's very easy to drive in Ireland; it's never too busy and it's also easy to get out of the city centre without wasting a lot of time. 

Other things to do in Wicklow would be: visiting Avoca, a nice craft shop with a lot of history to it. 
Driving down the old military road is also a great way of exploring Wicklow: it's a fun drive and you'll see lots of waterfalls, and beautiful moors. There are plenty of places where you can get out of the car to take pictures or to explore the environment a bit. 

And if you end up around Rathdrum, Bates Restaurant is my absolute favourite place to stop for lunch or dinner!

Hope this is helpful. Enjoy Wicklow!

Greetings from Canada. We just returned from driving the entire island on our own.

No need to hire a driver unless you simply just want someone else to drive. We hired a driver when traveling in Argentina because we do not speak Spanish. English our mother tongue we saw no need, and the Irish people are beyond friendly and will come to support you if you need assistance. Plus with gps in your vehicle you will be fine.

I would also suggest when traveling from Dublin to Wicklow (Glendalough) to also consider seeing Rock of Cashel. It’s stunning!!!! And, it’s close to Kilkenny and what I would group in the Waterford zone if you are doing a mini loop of sorts.

Enjoy!

Melanie

Hello Wallace!

How was your first trip to Ireland? I would love to know more about it! It would be interesting if you have any tips and personal suggestions for first-time travellers in the Ireland's Ancient East!

Hoping to hear from you soon!