TAKE a look at the gorgeous forest park with breathtaking river trails, a tree-top view and a fantastic cafe - and it's just less than an hour away from Dublin. Avondale Forest Park is situated in the heart of the gorgeous Wicklow countryside, boasting beautiful mountains and landscape views. The park is a stone's throw from Rathdrum, which only takes less than an hour to reach from the bustling capital .
And the best thing for commuters is that they can grab a train to Rathdrum, where they provide daily bus services to the park, making it the perfect day trip. Avondale Forest Park is well known as the birthplace of Irish forestry as tree species worldwide were planted from the 1770s onwards. The park boasts over 500 acres of mature woodland with trees from all over the world and some of Ireland's most interesting and tallest trees.
There are seven walking and cycling trails available at the park, with some taking just 40 minutes whilst others can go on for as long as two hours. The two famous walking trails are the River Walk and the Railway Walk, both boasting unique sights that are rarely found in Ireland. The River Walk is the longest and most challenging walk at the park, with some steep descents and climbs.
However, the walkers who are willing to take on the challenge will be awarded with some magnificent river views and a view of Lover's Leap from below - a gorgeous mountain view. The Railway Walk is a linear walk from Rathdrum railway station through the woods to Avon.