For those that don’t know Powerscourt Estate and Gardens is a stunning manor house set in the lush Irish country.
At the base of the Wicklow mountains, the setting is stunning. The house itself is grand, and has some excellent facilities, including the Avoca clothing and food ranges and a couple delightful cafes, but the real treat are the Powerscourt gardens.
The main lawn sprawls down the hill, with perfectly landscaped slopes and lawns down to a very impressive fountain. Ornate statues decorate the area adding further interest. Huge trees frame the gardens and divide each area from the next.
The Japanese garden transports you to a different country on the other side of the world. Delicately carved structures add a centre while the seemingly ancient arches create tiny paths that weave through the outskirts.
The Pepperpot Tower allows for excellent views over the rest of the Powerscourt gardens. If flowers are your thing then the bedded garden area impresses with a large range of roses and other bright flowering blooms. There’s also plenty of woodland walks between that allow you to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet.
The Waterfall is a little further along, and is well known as a summer picnic spot. The impressive waterfall has a wonderful walk around and is great for a family day-out along with the Estate.
For those on a budget the Dublinsightseeing.ie south coast tour visits the Estate along with Glendalough (no waterfall stop) Or the DART will take you to Bray, from where you can get a bus to Powerscourt.
Benjamin Duff
Verses Travel 