One of the things that get’s to me in the summer is the fact that I always have to be on my toes in terms of ideas and what to do. With a couple of kids (son & grandson) that are just dying to get out an explore this year, I have to be constantly thinking of places around that we can enjoy and perhaps also learn something about the history around us.
I have to admit, this year, with the boys a bit older, I too am enjoying visiting sites around me that have historic meaning. They get to learn something (as do I!) and we always have a lovely picnic lunch in the sunshine in locations that are genuinely breathtaking in one sense or another.
The fact that a lot of the time the weather dictates exactly what happens is an unfortunate coincidence and best laid plans end up binned especially this summer where we have mostly experienced one sort of weather – drenched!
However, last Sunday, the two boys and I headed off to Powerscourt Waterfall in County Wicklow (aka The Garden of Ireland). Wicklow is about an hour an a half from here in Offaly but the motorway is first class and we were there in no time. For once this summer, the sun gods were smiling and we were all really looking forward to a great day out.
Thankfully, Powerscourt did not disappoint.
When entering, the drive up from the main gate is simply beautiful – either side of the narrow road is lined with beautiful pines, oaks and some amazing Giant Redwoods. Once we unloaded, we had to find our spot for the day. Hands down winner was a gorgeous area at the foot of what we had come to see – the waterfall. At almost 120 metres of crashing, cascading water, Powerscourt Waterfall truly is a sight to behold. On a sunny day it’s even better and the kids were amazed.
However, what are also fantastic are the many walks and pathways that you can explore all through out the park. The kids loved it and we spent hours meandering around the streams and the river with all sorts of wildlife and butterfly’s, idling the day away. Normally we try and take in some sort of historical sites on our days out but this day was just 100% relaxation and we all had a blast.
The Powerscourt House and Gardens lie just around the corner, but that’s for another day…and another blog!
There is a small shop selling teas and coffees and snacks on site but we were prepared and brought all our own food and really enjoyed our picnic in the sunshine. There is a superb playground for the kids down there too and the whole area is a safe haven for families.
So this week, we did not learn about Vikings or ancient priests but the kids were not too disappointed about that. They had a great day out in the ‘Garden of Ireland’ and Powerscourt Waterfall will definitely be on our list of Irish treasures to visit next summer.
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Author: Sine Treanor for Celtic Rings Ltd
