Blessington is a picturesque town on the edge of the Wicklow Mountains, known for its scenic lakes, outdoor activities, and welcoming village atmosphere. Surrounded by beautiful countryside and close to the Blessington Greenway and Poulaphouca Reservoir, it’s a popular spot for walking, cycling, and relaxing escapes in the Garden County.
Russborough House
Russborough House is one of Ireland’s finest stately homes, celebrated for its magnificent Palladian architecture, elegant interiors, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Set near Blessington Lakes, the estate offers woodland walks, family activities, and a rich cultural heritage, making it a popular destination for visitors exploring Wicklow.
With 200 acres of parkland, ample activities, and guided tours available, Russborough House offers visitors insight into history, heritage, art, and antiques.
Blessington Lakes
Blessington Lakes, also known as the Poulaphouca Reservoir, stretch across the Wicklow countryside offering stunning scenery, peaceful walking trails, and water-based activities. Some of the best viewing points include the Avon viewing area near Blessington, the scenic drives around Ballyknockan, and viewpoints along the Blessington Greenway, where visitors can enjoy panoramic lake and mountain views.
The Avon
The Avon is a popular outdoor adventure and leisure destination overlooking the beautiful Blessington Lakes. Known for its water sports, lakeside walks, glamping, and family-friendly activities, The Avon offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation in the heart of Wicklow’s scenic countryside.
Outdoor Activities
Blessington is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from scenic walks and cycling routes to kayaking and paddleboarding on the Blessington Lakes. Visitors can explore the Blessington Greenway, enjoy hiking trails nearby, or take part in adventure activities at The Avon, all surrounded by the stunning landscapes of west Wicklow.
Gardens in Blessington
Situated amidst woodlands and picturesque countryside, June Blake’s contemporary garden is spread over three tranquil rural acres. The garden is home an eclectic mix of plants, including ferns and grass bamboo. June also offers garden tours for newcomers and a variety of plants for sale, making it a delightful summertime stop for nature lovers.
Spanning over 20 acres, Jimi Blake’s Hunting Brook Gardens boasts one of Ireland’s largest private plant collections, featuring everything from tropical gardens to cacti and wild meadows. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or simply seeking a beautiful horticultural experience, a visit to Hunting Brook Gardens between April and September is a must.
Food & Drink
The town of Blessington is home to an array of culinary gems.
The Avon has a relaxed, casual food offering built around its lakeside Food Court, café spaces, and bar areas. The main Food Court features a rotating selection of food trucks and vendors serving options like wood-fired pizza, burgers, kebabs, and other street-food style dishes, all enjoyed with views over Blessington Lakes.
On-site you’ll also find the Walker’s Cafe for coffee, sandwiches, and light bites, as well as the Lakeshore Bar offering drinks alongside casual food options. For something sweet or a coffee stop, the Coffee Dock serves ice creams, pastries, milkshakes, and specialty coffees.
Overall, it’s very much a flexible, grab-and-go style dining experience rather than a single sit-down restaurant, with plenty of choice depending on the day and season.
West Wicklow House is a traditional Irish family-run pub. Their restaurant offers some of Blessington’s most delicious food, regular live music performances, and a wide range of delicious drinks.
Murphy’s Bar is a family-run pub conveniently located on Blessington’s Main Street. Their relaxed environment is perfect for unwinding after an exploration of the Blessington Lakes. Enjoy their a la carte menu, floral beer garden, and a heated deck.
Best Walks & Trails
During a trip to Blessington, visitors have the opportunity to hike up to Seefin Passage Tomb. The hike allows exploration of an ancient site dating back 5,000 years and provides breathtaking mountain views.
Journey across the Blessington Greenway walk linking the historic town of Blessington with the Palladian mansion at Russborough House. This 6km walk meanders along the lakeshores and through opulent forests. Perfect for walking or cycling, this route offers stunning views and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
The Mass Path begins in Lacken and guides hikers to the Coillte forestry network of trails near Lugnagun. Upon completion, this moderate route provides breathtaking views of the Blessington Lakes.
From Lugnagun, there is an opportunity to follow the trail onward toward the unmarked Sorrel Hill – Black Hill Mountain Loop. Due to its unmarked nature and 550m climb, this mountain loop requires prospective hikers to have adequate mountain equipment and additional navigational ability, in case of bad weather.
Blessington Lakeshore Heritage Trail
Embark on an adventure along the Blessington Lakeshore Heritage Trail.
Travel 33km across the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains and experience some of West Wicklow’s most incredible scenery and heritage sites. This route’s itinerary showcases local landmarks and provides insight into the rich cultural heritage surrounding the area.
Visitors and locals alike can enjoy the trail equally by car, bike, or on foot.
