Co. Wicklow Ireland

Day 95/Ireland 28
Travelled:65km through Co.Wicklow
Visited: Devils Glen, Wicklow, Kilmacurragh Arboretum, Meeting of the Waters, Avoca Handweaving Mill
Stay:Arklow -Harbour N52.7948 W6.1448

On our way to Wicklow we spotted the forest walk at Devils Glen and followed the gravel track for about a kilometre until we eventually arrived at the picnic area. It appears it must have been a popular place as they had set up a Sculpture Trail, but it seemed a little ‘tired’ now. After breakfast we walked part of the trail and then decided to keep going. 







In Wicklow we parked along the foreshore and walked into town, crossing the stone bridge over River Leitrim. 





Guinness is everywhere...

We then went to have a look at Castle ruins and the pier. 





Someone made an effort to paint various boats along the pier...here are a couple






We then pointed Bluey back inland to Kilmacurragh Arboretum which is well known for its conifers and rhododendrons. We spent a pleasant hour strolling through the gardens admiring the many plants from all over the world.





Rare tree named Monkey Puzzle 


Aussie tree fern and a myrtle tree from Chile

 Our next spot was at the Meeting of the Waters where Avonmore and beg rivers come together to form the Avoca River. It was here the Thomas Moore penned his famous Irish Melody. 







Near by in Avoca we went to visit the Weaving Mill. It was interesting to stroll through the weaving factory to see how their product is made. 

















It was then that time of the day to find a sleepy spot for tonight and so we came back to the coast town of Arklow which has long been an active harbour with the Avoca flowing out to sea. There had been major industry here but that has since disappeared. As we had dinner we watched the sailboats go out for a twighlight competition.