Ireland - Lough Dan, Co. Wicklow, the perfect picnic destination
- lorisolan
- Jan 25, 2018
- 2 min read
Since I was home in Ireland last July, I vowed that I would explore my country more every time I returned home. For such a small island there is so much natural beauty to be explored. I was lucky enough to get back for Christmas '17 so Denver and I took a trip through the Wicklow mountains and ended up at Lough Dan (Lough meaning Lake in Irish so Lake Dan I guess). The drive through the Sally Gap was breathtaking as always, we stopped at the couple of viewpoints and got some snaps. I probably have several of the same from trips over the years however it never gets old.
The Sally Gap, Co. Wicklow
We had a coffee at the lovely Wicklow Heather restaurant. Their menu for both lunch and dinner is extensive and the food is always exceptional. It is a great rest stop if you are visiting the Glendalough/Laragh area.
We found a random spot beside a stream and parked up at what we imagined was the entrance to the lake. The sign posts along the road were good up to a certain point then there was nothing to tell you where the actual entry was. We crossed the road and obviously guessed right as we went through a small gate which took us up a narrow path past the lake. We admired the crystal clear day and the complete stillness of the water. We continued on and climbed the mountain adjacent to Lough Dan. It took about 20 minutes navigating our way to the top through gorse and avoiding mud spots. The ascent was so worth it as the 360 degree views that surrounded us were just stunning.
We found a nice big rock and sat ourselves down to take it all in. After a few minutes we took out our picnic of sausage sandwiches and of course Tayto Cheese & Onion crisps. You can not say you have been to Ireland unless you have tried a bag of these tasty crisps!
Despite the freezing weather, it was without a doubt one of the most scenic, tranquil picnics I have ever had with just the noise of sheep bleating and planes passing overhead to accompany us.
Lough Dan, Co. Wicklow
Comments