Powerscourt River Walk

The River Walk at Powerscourt EstateThe River Walk, a private and hidden gem, deep within the walls of Powerscourt Estate is one of Ireland’s most charming and secluded places.Its ancient and unspoiled beauty is carefully protected. The heritage of The River Walk can be found in the ancient trees surrounding over 3kilometres of winding walkways that meander through this historic acreage. The River Walk’s main pathway was laid in 1868 by the Viscount ofPowerscourt so that his family can enjoy the serenity of the River Dargle.Upon entering The River Walk, follow the main path which will lead you down towards the tranquil tune of the river and to where the pathwaysplits in two. To the left is almost 1 kilometre of nature’s most precious woodlands and to the right, a 2 kilometre walkway offers an array ofriver side picnic areas. The real beauty and essence of The River Walk is found in the many secret woodland trails that radiate from the mainpathway, which are very easy to explore.

To the Left Taking the route along the river to the left, you can explore hidden trails or follow the main pathway on a shorter walk that is teeming withtreasures. Here the river meanders down to The Golden Gate Lodge – a testament to the centuries old charm of The River Walk. En route, keep an eye out for the horses roaming underneath the three Giant Redwoods in an enclosed meadow on the left. There are many hidden trails leading to magical groves all along the river, so feel free to wander off the pathway and explore the surrounding foliage. The woodlands that tower above The River Walk are certainly a spectacular sight. Look above you and witness one of the tallest collections of conifers in Ireland. Thanks to the Viscount’s tree planning programme of 1870, these woodlands boast a number of species including Douglas-Firs, Corsican Pines, Giant Redwoods, Atlantic Cedars, Noble Firs and countless more.These charming woodlands make for such a captivating backdrop; they have been used as the setting in many epic films such as ‘Far and Away’, ‘Excalibur’, ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’ and ‘Braveheart’. With so much to explore along the way, you’re destined to find your own hidden treasures.

To the RightThis 2 kilometre section of the river has lots of nature’s wonderful surprises, as well as a dozen hidden trails and secluded picnic spots to enjoy. Along the path you will come to a stony bridge where a young waterfall rushes into the Dargle. The pathway then brings you though the giant corridor of overhanging trees. If you are with younger explorers, look out for the rope swing at the river’s edge and stop here for a leisurely picnic. Many of the trails along the pathway lead into and around the surrounding woodlands. Take one of these walkways to escape into the secrethavens under the canopies of the sky scraping trees. It is here that you can sit on the roots of the Giant Redwoods and relax to the gentle sounds of the many wild birds perched in these gigantic evergreens. This is where nature’s favourite animals and birds come for respite so keep an eye out for a Chaffinch or even a squirrel or two.Romantic days are easily passed along this walk by strolling along the river’s edge while gazing into the clear waters or hiding away on the banks where the river sleepily carves a variety of shelters under the trees. If you wander down to the end of the main pathway you will reach The Middle Gate Lodge. This marks the meeting of the River Dargle and the Glencree River. It’s another old-world reminder of the River Walk’s noble heritage.The River Walk is just a small part of one of the most beautiful Estates in Ireland. Whether a nature trail or hiking adventure, The River Walk is yours to enjoy in whatever way you choose. You could take a short stroll down for a peak, plan a picnic or lunch with a loved one, or spend an afternoon playing and exploring the three kilometres of woodlands in this area. We hope you have a wonderful time!

Map of the River Walk

Powerscourt River Walk

by Powerscourt

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