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 Avondale House, passing under a viaduct on the way. Locals often take a looped walk starting in Rathdrum and following the route of the Railway Walk, returning from Avondale House by the footpath along the road back into town.
And there's an incredible 12-storey viewing tower with a 700-metre treetop trail and a slide at the top to swiftly get down to the bottom. The Beyond the Trees viewing tower helps visitors emerge high above the forest floor and enjoy panoramic views of Wicklow and the mountains. It's one of the popular spots for watching a sunrise as it gives a gorgeous colour over the Wicklow landscapes.
The popular Seed Cafe is located beside the large Walled Garden after the orientation centre and offers freshly prepared sandwiches , homemade soups and delicious homemade sweet treats. There's also a fabulous outdoor dining terrace, which is ideal for families whose little ones want to enjoy the adventurous playground beside the cafe. The Avondale Forest Park is free for entry for those who want to explore and walk but for those who are driving, the car park is €5.
The Beyond the Trees viewing tower costs €13 per child (aged between 4 and 17) and €16 per adult - a senior or a student with an ID can get a ticket for €14. Children under three years old are granted free entry..
