Hi everyone. I hope I find you all well this week. I love this time of year when gardens are coming back to life so I thought it was the perfect time to take a trip to the beautiful county of Wicklow, also known as The Garden of Ireland. This stunning landscape of heather strewn mountains, woodland trails and lush rolling countryside is just irresistible, Here’s 5 of the finest gardens in the county.
5 Unmissable Wicklow Gardens
1. Mount Usher
We begin in Ashford and the beautiful Mount Usher Gardens. First planted in 1868 by the Walpole family, they are one of the finest examples in Ireland of a “Robinsonian” garden. William Robinson (1838-1935) was an Irish gardener and writer whose designs pioneered a wilder and more natural form of planting leading to the herbaceous border and the classic English cottage garden. They cover an area of 22 acres and boast some 5000 plant species. The River Vartry runs through the gardens with many winding riverside paths. Perfect for a relaxing stroll.
2. Russborough
Russborough House is a major attraction in County Wicklow. The 18th century Palladian mansion is the longest house in Ireland and the guided tours display a veritable treasure trove of art collections and stunning interiors. Equally impressive is the surrounding parkland. Highlights include the Walled Garden, the Fairy Trail and the Maze (pictured). The 2000 meter beech hedge maze comes complete with a statue of the Greek goddess Fame to guide you to the center.
3. June Blake’s Garden
So next up we’re off to a very special Wicklow garden and one of my personal favorites. June Blake’s garden is a true gem and is situated in Tinode in west Wicklow. Her eye for color and design is really quite something to behold and the gardens include a flower meadow, beautiful borders and prairie-style planting.
4. Kilmacurragh Botanic Gardens
The National Botanic Gardens at Kilmacuuragh came into being in the 19th century. They were developed by the then curators of the National Botanic Gardens, Thomas Acton and David Moore. The micro-climate in this part of Ireland saw certain plant species thrive at this site, faring much better than their counterparts at the other National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin Dublin. Their conifer and rhododendron collections are particularly impressive.
5. Powerscourt
We end our journey at a true show stopper. The stunning gardens here at Powerscourt Estate in Enniskerry were first designed in 1731 and cover over 47 acres. They were also voted no. 3 in National Geographic’s top 10 gardens in the world. I love the Italian Gardens where you get the best views of the Sugarloaf Mountain. There’s also a Japanese Garden, statuary and even a pet cemetery!
Thanks so much for dropping by,
Take care of yourselves and each other,
Slán go fóill!
Lulu.#
