County Wicklow offers magical fairy trails perfect for young explorers, with tiny fairy doors, hidden houses, and whimsical woodland paths. These trails spark imagination, encourage outdoor play, and are a fun, low-cost way for families to connect with nature and a little bit of fairy magic.
Magical Trail at Russborough
The Magical Trail at Russborough House is a family‑friendly woodland adventure where children follow a pathway dotted with hidden fairy doors that lead to enchanting Lady’s Island. Along the route, kids encounter illustrated wildlife characters and answer interactive quiz-style questions about the animals that live on the estate. Embedded within the 200-acre parkland, the trail combines imagination, education, and gentle woodland exploration—perfect for sparking young curiosity
Tomnafinnogue Wood Loop
Tomnafinnogue Woods near Tinahely features a scenic loop through ancient oak forest interlaced with shorter circuits like the Oak and Hazel loops, all suitable for families and casual walkers. Along the trail, you’ll follow quiet forest paths and boardwalks beside the River Derry, spotting wildlife like deer, kingfishers, and woodpeckers amid centuries‑old oak trees. The loop is easy-going and well way‑marked—ideal for a peaceful 1½‑hour stroll that feels like stepping back into a protected, enchanted woodland. Keep an eye out for some fairy doors.
The Delgany Fairy Trail
The Delgany Fairy Trail is a short, sensory-friendly woodland walk along The Blind Lane, winding from Blackberry Lane to Priory Road, and studded with over 20 handmade fairy houses belonging to characters like Fairy Lailli, Fairy Pipi, and Fairy Rhiz. Designed to spark imaginative play and environmental awareness, children can follow a clue-filled leaflet and activity sheet to learn about insects, animals, and plants in a calm, magical setting Open year-round and free to explore, it’s a charming way for families to stroll through nature while believing a little fairy magic is real .
The Glenview Hotel Woodland Walk
The Woodland Walk features two loops, a higher and a lower trail. Along the way, you’ll find gentle prompts encouraging walkers to pause and engage their senses, listening, smelling, observing, and touching. This forms part of our sensory trail, designed to be enjoyed by everyone but particularly beneficial for those with additional needs. The Fairy Trail is woven into the lower loop, where eight fairy doors are hidden along the path. At reception, we provide child-friendly maps with a checklist of each fairy home, turning the walk into a fun treasure-hunt experience for younger visitors. Any walkers are also welcome to visit regardless of if they’re hotel residents or not too.
