For many parents the summer holidays can seem never ending; children need constant entertainment and that costs money right? If you, like most of us, are a bit strapped for cash and you’re looking for a family adventure, then the clever guys in AA Motor Insurance have just the thing. The best part is – it’s free! Pack up the car and Let’s Go to Glendalough.
Referred to as the ‘Garden of Ireland’, with rolling hills, vast lakes and spectacular views, County Wicklow never disappoints. Glendalough gets its name from the Irish Gleann dá Locha, the ‘valley of the two lakes’ and it is these lakes along with beautiful wooded areas that make it the perfect place to enjoy a summer picnic. There’s plenty of space for little people to run wild.
Glendalough is most famous for its 30-metre high round tower. While Rapunzel locked up in her tower, might spring to mind for many an excited child, the tales of a lot of tall towers are more gruesome. The idea of the tall tower was to use it in times of attack. A warning was sent out to all in the village that the pillaging Vikings were near and this would see the locals rushing to the tower for safety. The only way into the tower was via a door located 3.5 metres off the ground and accessible only by a ladder.
Parents might enjoy the guided tours, which give you a chance to develop a bit of a better understanding of an area so steeped in history. The tour takes a little over 90 mins and the guide takes you through this early medieval monastic settlement which dates back to the sixth century. From St Kevin’s church to the priests house and the many other buildings and settlements that scatter the area, there’s plenty to see. It’s a perfect place to let imaginations run wild; Vikings versus villagers, the ultimate game of chasing. The many stone walls and trees are perfect for a game of ‘hide and seek’ too.
As well as the Monastic City, the Upper Lake site also has a host of treasures, like St Kevin’s Bed, a cave eight metres up a cliff face and The Caher a very large round construction of which archaeologists still don’t know the function. The miner’s village just can’t be missed as the scenery there is really spectacular. Finding out about the history of Glendalough Valley, the ancient folklore of the area, the life and times of the early settlers and stories of local place names, really makes it worth a visit and the Glendalough Visitor Centre will provide you with all the information you need to know.
Before heading home, make sure you leave yourself enough time to visit the Sensory Garden, located right behind the Information Centre. Your children will be taught about nature using all five senses. There are all sorts of beautiful plants to look at, touch, smell and feel, whilst the flowing water from the waterfall provides a lovely sound for the ear.
For the very active families there are a lot of other free activities in the area, such as hiking the Wicklow Mountains and cycling along the Wicklow Way. Remember, the higher you climb the more magnificent the views. Track and Trail is just one company that offers great deals on bike rental.
All in all, it makes for a great day out for the family. Getting to Glendalough is relatively easy from the N81 Dublin to Tullow Rd or the N11 Dublin to Wexford Rd. So what are you waiting for? The AA Route Planner can direct you there easily, just click here. So why not grab a picnic, pack up the car, hit the road and Let’s Go! With thanks to AA Motor Insurance.
LISTEN: You Must Be Jokin’ with Aideen McQueen – Faith healers, Coolock craic and Gigging as Gaeilge
