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Welcome to Derreen Gardens, a hidden gem nestled in the captivating beauty that is the Beara Peninsula in Kerry. The garden is located in Lauragh. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse plants, and rich history, Derreen Gardens offers visitors a memorable experience. It is actually famous for its rhododendron collection.

I visited the garden recently and I absolutely loved it. With 12km of walking trails through the garden, there is so much beauty to be appreciated and unforgettable views around every corner.

About Derreen Gardens:

Derreen Gardens is a botanical paradise that spans over 60 acres on the Beara Peninsula. As well as 60 acres of exotic plants and rhododendron, there are also 12km of walking trails to wander.

With its origins dating back to the mid-19th century, this STUNNING garden showcases a blend of natural beauty and carefully designed landscapes. The gardens were first created by the Earls of Bantry and have since evolved into a haven for plant enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful escape.

How Much is Entry to Derreen Gardens:

To enter the world of Derreen Gardens, there is a fee.

When I visited it was:

  • €9 euro per adult
  • €4 per child
  • €25 euro for family or seasonal ticket

but I would recommend checking the official website or contact the gardens directly for the most up-to-date information. Personally, I found that the entry fee was well worth the experience of exploring the stunning garden and immersing yourself in the surroundings.

Derreen gardens, Lauragh, Beara, Kerry 3

Facilities – Derreen Gardens Kerry 

Derreen Gardens offers plenty of facilities to ensure visitors have an enjoyable experience. Upon arrival, you’ll find a large car park space. The gardens boast well-maintained walking paths, making it accessible for visitors of all ages. Although there are some hills and stairs throughout the paths.

Benches and seating areas are scattered throughout the gardens, providing opportunities to sit back and admire the views. Seriously, take some time to soak in the peaceful ambiance.

Toilet facilities are right beside the cafe. And yes, there is a fab little cafe with outdoor seating.

Additionally, Derreen Gardens welcomes well-behaved dogs on leashes, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the gardens while exploring with their furry companions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Derreen Gardens:

What are the opening hours of Derreen Gardens?

Derreen Gardens is typically open to the public during the spring and summer seasons, with specific opening hours varying from year to year. It is advisable to check the official website or contact the gardens directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding opening times.

Are guided tours available at Derreen Gardens?

No but you do receive a key at the start with a map and information on each tree.

Can Derreen Gardens accommodate wheelchair users or individuals with mobility limitations?

Derreen Gardens features accessible paths and level terrain in most areas, making it possible for wheelchair users and individuals with mobility limitations to enjoy parts of the gardens. However, it’s important to note that some areas may have uneven terrain, inclines and steps and possibly limited accessibility due to the natural landscape of the gardens.

Are picnics allowed in Derreen Gardens?

Yes, visitors are welcome to enjoy a leisurely picnic amidst the serene surroundings of Derreen Gardens. There are several picturesque spots throughout the gardens where visitors can relax, unwind, and indulge in a picnic.

Is there food at Derreen Gardens?

YES. There is a fab little cafe, I tried out two of the cakes and they were DEVINE. Definitely try the Guinness cake!

Are dogs allowed in Derreen Garden? 

Yes, I saw loads of 4-legged friends on this walk. You’re allowed have a dog – but be sure to have a lead.

 

Did someone say food? Food is such a big part of travel, and sure, while I love the scenery on all my trips, I secretly look forward to trying new food the most. Kenmare in County Kerry, is somewhere with endless possibilities when it comes to eating, so let me share some of my favourite places to eat in Kenmare Town.

The Kilkee Cliffs and Loop Walk

Ireland has some incredible coastline and cliffs to enjoy. Looking to explore some cliffs on your next trip to Ireland? Look no further than the Kilkee Cliffs in County Clare. Located on the west coast of Ireland, the Kilkee Cliff walk offers such incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and show off unique geological formations that are sure to leave you in awe. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know about the Kilkee loop walk to make the most of your visit to the Kilkee Cliffs.

The Sugar Loaf hike in Wicklow, Ireland is a popular hike and for good reason. Not only is it a very scenic walk, but it’s also a short one. The mountain gives panoramic views of the surrounding countryside as well as views over Dublin City and the Irish Sea. Whether you’re a regular hiker or just looking for a nice Sunday walk, the Sugar Loaf is a great choice. Let me tell you all about it!

Where is the Sugar Loaf Hike in Wicklow

Well as the title of this posts suggests, the Sugar Loaf Hike is in Wicklow, but it’s not far from the Dublin Boarder either.  In fact, it’s just 45 minute drive from Dublin City Centre to the Sugar Loaf. It’s also just 13 minutes away from Bray on the Wicklow Coast.

How to get to the Sugar Loaf

Driving to the Sugar Loaf

Firstly, if you’re using Google Maps, be sure to put “The Sugar Loaf car park” into maps, otherwise, it might being you to the wrong location! In terms of driving vs public transport, I can’t lie, I drive everywhere so I would say this is the best way. There is a car park at the entrance. Normally you’ll get a place there but on the weekends it can get a little busy.

Public Transport – Does Public Transport go to the Sugar Loaf

I have never used public transport to get here. While I did find a bus that leaves from Dublin, the closest it seems to get to the mountain is the Village of Kilmacanogue, which is still a 7-minute drive or 1-hour walk to the Sugar Loaf. However, if you know how to get a lift from the village or want to get your 10k steps in before you even start the hike, see this site for the timetable.

The Sugar Loaf Trail

The reason I love this hike is because you can say you got a hike in, but you won’t be feeling like death afterwards! That’s right, it’s a very doable hike, but you’re still rewarded by incredible views.

How long is the hike? You might ask.

Well, it takes about 45 minutes to reach the top. That is if you don’t need to stop every 5 minutes for a “catch-my-breath” break. The first 10 minutes is through the field from the car park to the bottom of the mountain. It’s a very gentle slope but it can also get incredibly mucky, so wear the proper footwear.

Once you reach the incline, it gets very rough and rocky, so again, footwear is important.

The last 5 – 10 minutes is pretty steep. In fact, it’s quite the scramble to the top. This part would not be suitalbe for anyone with mobility issues or very small children. It can seem quite daunting when you get to this part, but it is very doable and only takes a few minutes to the top. From there, it is all worth it.

How difficult is the Sugar Loaf Hike? Is the sugar loaf hard to climb?

Overall on difficulty, I’d say it’s on the easy-moderate side. While it’s super short and the first half is basically just a stroll, the top is certainly not a walk in the park. You need to concentrate on your footing, and coming down this part is equally as tricky.

If you find yourself asking “what do I need to bring on the Sugar Loaf Hike”?

Honestly, you don’t need much for this hike. Make sure you have warm/waterproof clothing however as the location is very exposed. After your breath returns at the top, you’ll get cold fast.

You can bring water and a snack but it’s not that important, as if you don’t dally at the top, you could be up and down in an hour and a half.

Enjoy the view though!

After giving your lungs and legs a workout on the way up, you might as well take some time to enjoy the views, which as you’ll see from my video, are absolutely beautiful. There is a mound of rocks at the summit which is the perfect location for a picture before you make the journey back down again.

What is the best time to do the hike?

This hike is pretty quiet during the week but it can be really busy on the weekends. However, if you do decide to go on a weekend, I recommend going for just before sunset time, as generally, at this time, people are all making their way back down.

As coming down is difficult, it’s best to do this when no hoard of people are trying to get up the mountain passed you. BUT if you are doing it for sunset, be sure to have a head torch with you, just incase you spend a little too long at the top.

So what do ya think? Are you going to head for a sunset hike of the Sugar Loaf any time soon?

 

What other attractions are near the Sugar Loaf?

Well Wicklow is also known as “The Garden of Ireland” and for good reason. If you’re an ourdoor or nature lover, you’ll have plenty to see and do!

Lough Tay/ Guinness Lake

Lough Tay is famous for being the shape and colour of a pint of Guinness. Do you like the black stuff? Then why not head over and take a look for youreslf.

Glendalough

glendalough, wicklow, ireland, must see places

Glendalough is a glacial valley in Co.Wicklow. The landscape here is absolutely stunning. There’s Medieval monuments on the grounds, views of the upper and lower lakes and fabulous walking trails if you want to get another hike in!

Bray & Bray Head

Bray is a great seaside town in Wicklow. There is a seafront walk, a pepple beach and plenty of restaurants should you get peckish. You can also give Bray Head a go, another easy hike in Wicklow!

Where to eat near the Sugar Loaf

Well Bray is just a 10 minute drive away and there are a tonne of pubs and restaurants along the sea front, perfect for a post-hike bite!

Tinyboots

FAQs

Hello guys.

Welcome back or if you’re new here, welcome 🙂 . Today I’m introducing Red, my lovely Citroen Dispatch. I picked it up in early summer 2022. So I decided I’m gonna give you a little van tour. At the moment the van is very minimal. I haven’t done anything to it in this video. It’s literally as I bought it.

VAN TOUR | My small campervan – Citroen Dispatch Campervan Conversion | Van Life starts here

It’s a really small van and it’s perfect for one – maybe two at a push – people! It’s great for stealth camping because other than the curtains (which I plan on doing something about), you can’t tell it’s a camper at all.

But I do have quite a few plans for it. So far I’ve added a sink and cooker:

Van Update 🙂 | Citroen Dispatch Van Conversion | My vanlife tiny home on wheels

I’ve been doing quite a few updates and DIYs on my van. From finishing touches to re-doing the kitchen on a budget, filling the van with secondhand dishes (I love a charity shop challenge!) and making a collapsable DIY van table to work from:

And also added a leisure battery to allow me to charge on the go and have a working fridge.

Redoing my small campervan kitchen on a budget – solo female van life

DIY Van Life Table – for 20 euro!

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